Mariska Hargitay stands at an impressive 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) and showcases her striking presence on and off the screen.
Mariska Hargitay, an acclaimed actress, stands tall in more ways than one. Her height often sparks curiosity among fans and followers. Height can influence how we perceive actors, especially those in strong, authoritative roles. Mariska’s impressive stature complements her powerful performances, making her character even more believable.
This blog will explore Mariska Hargitay’s height and why it’s a point of interest. Stay with us as we uncover the facts and discuss how her height impacts her career and public image.
Quick Bio
Attribute | Details |
Full Name | Mariska Magdolna Hargitay |
Date of Birth | January 23, 1964 |
Place of Birth | Santa Monica, California, USA |
Age | 60 years (as of 2024) |
Ethnicity | Hungarian-American |
Nationality | American |
Height | 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) |
Weight | 65 kg (143 lbs) |
Body Measurements | 37-28-36 inches |
Eye Color | Brown |
Hair Color | Dark Brown |
Body Type | Hourglass |
Occupation | Actress, Producer, Director |
Famous Role | Olivia Benson in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit |
Parents | Mickey Hargitay (Father), Jayne Mansfield (Mother) |
Siblings | Zoltan Hargitay, Mickey Hargitay Jr., Jayne Marie Mansfield, Antonio Ottaviano, Tina Hargitay |
Spouse | Peter Hermann (m. 2004) |
Children | 3 (August, Amaya, Andrew) |
Net Worth | Estimated at $100 million (as of 2024) |
Religion | Christian |

Who Is Mariska Hargitay?
Mariska Magdolna Hargitay is an acclaimed American actress, producer, and philanthropist best known for portraying Detective Olivia Benson in the iconic television series Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (SVU). Born on January 23, 1964, in Santa Monica, California, she hails from a lineage of glamour and fame. Her mother, Jayne Mansfield, was a celebrated actress and sex symbol, while her father, Mickey Hargitay, was a professional bodybuilder and actor.
Mariska endured a challenging childhood after losing her mother in a tragic car accident at the age of three, an experience that profoundly shaped her compassion and resilience. Despite these early hardships, she forged a remarkable career in Hollywood, debuting with a small role in Ghoulies (1985) and steadily rising to stardom.
Her defining role as Olivia Benson in SVU not only garnered her multiple awards, including an Emmy and a Golden Globe but also positioned her as a leading voice in advocating for survivors of sexual assault. Mariska founded the Joyful Heart Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting survivors and raising awareness about abuse and trauma.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Mariska is a devoted wife to actor Peter Hermann and a loving mother to their three children. Her talent, activism, and authenticity combination have made her a beloved Hollywood figure.
Early Life And Career
Mariska Hargitay is a well-known actress, best known for her role as Olivia Benson in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. Her journey to fame started early in her life. Let’s explore her early life and career.
Childhood And Family Background
Mariska was born in Santa Monica, California, on January 23, 1964. She is the daughter of actors Mickey Hargitay and Jayne Mansfield. Her mother was a famous Hollywood star and a sex symbol of the 1950s and 1960s. Her father, Mickey, was a bodybuilder and actor. Sadly, Mariska lost her mother in a car accident when she was just three years old.
Mariska has two brothers, Zoltan and Mickey Jr., and three half-siblings from her parents’ other relationships. Growing up in a family of actors gave Mariska a unique perspective on the entertainment industry. Despite losing her mother, Mariska’s father and stepmother raised her and her siblings with love and care.
Initial Steps In Acting
Mariska’s interest in acting started in high school. She participated in various school plays and found her passion on the stage. She attended the UCLA School of Theater, Film, and Television, where she honed her skills. In 1984, Mariska made her film debut in the horror-comedy “Ghoulies.”
After her debut, Mariska appeared in several TV shows and movies. Some of her early works include guest roles in “Falcon Crest” and “Baywatch.” Her big break came in 1999 when she was cast as Olivia Benson in “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.” This role made her a household name and earned her several awards.
Mariska’s dedication and talent have made her a respected figure in Hollywood. Her journey from a young girl with a dream to a successful actress is inspiring.
Rise To Fame
Mariska Hargitay’s rise to fame is a fascinating journey. She began her career in the 1980s. Her determination and talent set her apart. Over time, she secured roles that showcased her skills. Yet, it was one particular role that changed everything for her.
Breakthrough Role
Mariska’s breakthrough role came in 1999. She was cast as Olivia Benson in “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.” This role became her defining moment. The character of Olivia Benson resonated with viewers. She brought depth and empathy to the role. Audiences connected with her performance.
Her portrayal earned her critical acclaim. She won several awards, including an Emmy. This role catapulted her into the spotlight, and she became a household name. Her dedication to the role was evident. Mariska’s portrayal of Olivia Benson remains iconic.
Impact On Pop Culture
Mariska Hargitay’s impact on pop culture is undeniable. Her character, Olivia Benson, became a symbol of strength. Fans admired her resilience and compassion. The show addressed important social issues, increasing its influence and relevance.
Mariska’s performance inspired many. She raised awareness about survivors of assault, and her role extended beyond the screen. She founded the Joyful Heart Foundation, which supports survivors of abuse. Her work has left a lasting legacy.
Physical Appearance
Mariska Hargitay is famous for her role in Law & Order: SVU. Her physical appearance often draws attention, and fans are particularly curious about her height. This section will explore her height and compare it to that of her co-stars.
Height In Feet And Inches
Mariska Hargitay stands at 5 feet 7 inches. This height is above average for women. Her height adds to her commanding presence on screen.
Comparison To Co-stars
Let’s compare Mariska Hargitay’s height to her co-stars:
Co-star | Height |
Christopher Meloni | 6 feet |
Ice-T | 5 feet 11 inches |
Kelli Giddish | 5 feet 7 inches |
Peter Scanavino | 6 feet |
Mariska Hargitay is almost as tall as her male co-stars. She is the same height as Kelli Giddish. This balance adds to the dynamic on-screen presence. Her height helps her stand out in scenes, making her character more impactful.

Influence On Fans
Mariska Hargitay’s height often catches the eye of many fans. Her stature adds to her commanding presence on screen. This influence extends beyond her roles and into the hearts of viewers. Her height has become a topic of discussion among her followers.
Fan Reactions
Fans of Mariska Hargitay often express admiration for her height. They find it empowering, making her appear strong and confident. Many fans see her as a role model. They appreciate how her height complements her acting skills. Her presence inspires both young and old viewers.
Public Perception
The public perception of Mariska Hargitay’s height is overwhelmingly positive. People see her as a symbol of strength. Her height adds to her iconic status, setting her apart in the entertainment industry. Viewers respect her for her talent and commanding stature.
Height Controversies
Fans have discussed Mariska Hargitay’s height. Let’s explore the height controversies surrounding this beloved actress.
Rumors And Speculations
Many fans have speculated about Mariska Hargitay’s height. Some claim she is taller than she appears on screen, while others suggest she might be shorter. These rumors have fueled debates on various forums and social media platforms.
Several fan sites list her height differently. Some sources state she is 5’8″, while others mention 5’7″ or even 5’9″. This inconsistency has left fans curious and confused.
Official Statements
Mariska Hargitay has addressed her height in interviews. According to her, she stands at 5 feet 7 inches. This statement aims to clear up the speculations.
Despite her clarification, some fans still question her height. They compare her appearance in different shows and events.
Source | Height (inches) |
Fan Site A | 68 |
Fan Site B | 67 |
Official Statement | 67 |
Personal Life
Mariska Hargitay, renowned for her role as Olivia Benson on Law & Order: SVU, leads an interesting personal life. Her height is often a topic of curiosity, but her personal life stories are equally captivating.
Family And Relationships
Mariska was born to famous parents Jayne Mansfield and Mickey Hargitay. Her family life has been full of ups and downs. She has three children with her husband, Peter Hermann. They met on the Law & Order: SVU set and married in 2004. Their family includes two adopted children. Mariska and Peter are known for their strong bond and shared love of acting.
Lifestyle And Health
Mariska leads a healthy and active lifestyle. She maintains her impressive height and physique through regular exercise, including yoga, running, and strength training. Her diet focuses on balanced nutrition with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. She also emphasizes the importance of mental health, practicing meditation and mindfulness to stay grounded. Her commitment to a healthy lifestyle inspires many fans.
Achievements And Awards
Mariska Hargitay’s height is often a topic of curiosity. But her achievements and awards shine brighter. She has earned numerous accolades for her outstanding work in television.
Notable Awards
Mariska won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress. This award recognized her role as Olivia Benson in “Law & Order: SVU.” She also received a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Drama Series. These awards highlight her talent and dedication.
Career Milestones
Mariska’s career includes many significant milestones. She joined “Law & Order: SVU” in 1999. Her role quickly became iconic. In 2013, she received her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This marked a key moment in her career.
Mariska also founded the Joyful Heart Foundation in 2004. This organization helps survivors of abuse. Her work on and off the screen shows her commitment to making a difference.
Legacy In Television
Mariska Hargitay’s contribution to television is profound. Her role as Olivia Benson on “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” has left an indelible mark. She has become a beloved figure in American TV history. Let’s explore her influence on future generations and her enduring popularity.
Influence On Future Generations
Mariska Hargitay’s character, Olivia Benson, is iconic. She portrays strength and compassion. Many actors look up to her. Her role inspired many to pursue acting and social justice work.
Benson’s character tackles tough issues, including domestic abuse and sexual violence. This role helps raise awareness about these issues. Young viewers see Benson as a role model. Through her character, they learn about justice and empathy.
Hargitay’s influence extends beyond television. She founded the Joyful Heart Foundation, which helps survivors of abuse. Her work on and off-screen inspires many.
Enduring Popularity
Mariska Hargitay’s popularity continues to grow. “Law & Order: SVU” has been on air for over twenty years, and Hargitay’s portrayal of Olivia Benson is a key reason for its success.
Fans love her character’s evolution. Benson started as a detective and is now a captain. This growth keeps viewers engaged and makes them feel connected to her journey.
Hargitay’s talent and dedication shine through her work. She remains a favorite among TV audiences. Her character’s resilience and empathy resonate with many, ensuring her lasting legacy in television.

Frequently Asked Questions
How Tall Is Mariska Hargitay?
Mariska Hargitay is 5 feet 8 inches tall.
Is Mariska Hargitay Taller Than Average?
Yes, she is taller than the average American woman.
What Is Mariska Hargitay’s Height In Centimeters?
Her height in centimeters is 173 cm.
How Does Mariska Hargitay’s Height Compare To Her Co-stars?
She is taller than many of her co-stars.
Has Mariska Hargitay Ever Talked About Her Height?
Yes, she has mentioned feeling confident about her height.
Social Media Profile
Platform | Link |
Wikipedia | Click here |
Click here |
Conclusion
Mariska Hargitay’s height adds to her strong screen presence. Standing tall, she commands attention in every scene. Fans admire not just her talent but also her striking stature. Her height complements her powerful roles. Mariska continues to inspire with her impressive performances and distinctive look.
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