Mariska Hargitay, known for her role in “Law & Order: SVU,” shared a deeply personal essay revealing that she was raped in her thirties. In the essay published by People magazine, Hargitay described the incident as an act of dominance and control by a friend. She detailed going into “freeze mode,” a common trauma response, during the assault.
The acclaimed actor, also a prominent advocate for victims of sexual violence, discussed how she coped with the trauma privately for many years. Hargitay emphasized her advocacy work with the Joyful Heart Foundation, which she founded in 2004 to raise awareness about sexual violence and support survivors.
While acknowledging the painful part of her story, Hargitay emphasized that the experience does not define her. She hopes that by sharing her story, others who have experienced sexual violence will feel empowered to speak about their own experiences. Hargitay, celebrating 25 years as Olivia Benson on “SVU,” expressed gratitude for the strength of sexual assault survivors who have found solace and strength through her character.
In closing, Hargitay expressed renewed compassion for all those who have suffered and remains “proudly in process” while acknowledging her journey over the past 30 years since the traumatic experience.