Real reason Mariska Hargitay is unable to quit Law & Order: Special Victims Unit

At 60 years old, actress Mariska Hargitay shows no signs of stepping away from her iconic role as Detective Olivia Benson on the long-running show Law & Order: SVU. Having played the character for 25 years, Hargitay remains deeply committed to the series, much to the delight of its loyal fans who eagerly tune in to watch her chase down criminals each week.

An insider recently revealed the real reason behind Hargitay’s unwavering dedication, claiming she simply “can’t let go.” Speaking to Radar Online, a source explained that retirement is not on the actress’s radar. “Mariska refuses to retire and is prepared to take this show as far as it’ll go. She is Olivia Benson and Olivia Benson is her and she can’t let go.”

Hargitay is reportedly eager to secure another 20 to 25 episodes for the upcoming series, dreading the day production might come to an end. However, producers appear to have no intention of shutting down the show anytime soon.

The source also highlighted that Hargitay’s deep connection to the show extends beyond her on-screen role. “Her kids, her wealth and stability, her Joyful Heart Foundation that she founded 20 years ago to help women in crisis are all rooted in SVU,” they said.

Hargitay’s personal life is intertwined with the show as well. She married her SVU co-star Peter Hermann after meeting him on set. The couple has been married for nearly 30 years and shares three children: August, 18, Amaya, 13, and Andrew, 12.

Recently, Hargitay’s dedication to her character was evident off-screen when a lost girl in the park mistook the actress for a real cop and sought her help. In April, the young girl, noticing Hargitay’s police badge, interrupted filming to ask for assistance. Without hesitation, Hargitay halted production for 20 minutes to help the girl, who had been separated from her mother. Thanks to Hargitay’s quick action, the girl was soon reunited with her mother.

Hargitay’s devotion to her role and her willingness to help both on and off the screen continue to endear her to fans, ensuring that her legacy as Detective Olivia Benson remains as strong as ever.