MARISKA HARGITAY REFLECTS ON 27 YEARS AS OLIVIA BENSON: ICONIC HAIRSTYLES AND MILESTONES
Mariska Hargitay has portrayed Olivia Benson for over 27 years on Law & Order: SVU, and throughout that time, she has worn countless hairstyles, each reflecting her character’s evolution. In a recent interview, Hargitay revealed which look stands out as her all-time favorite—a moment that gives fans a glimpse into both her style preferences and her connection to the role.
Revisiting Iconic Looks
On September 18, Hargitay appeared in a video interview with Allure, where she reviewed photos of her past Olivia Benson hairstyles. Scrolling through decades of images, she paused on a photo from Season 26, just one year ago.
“Oh, this is a good look,” Hargitay remarked instantly. She complimented the subtle smoky eye makeup, which enhanced Benson’s trademark intense gaze. The style, she noted, balanced toughness with elegance—perfectly capturing the character’s presence on-screen.
Hair That Makes a Statement
While the makeup impressed, Hargitay admitted it was the hair that truly caught her eye. “But the hair is just beyond good,” she said with a smile. “This is one of my favorite Olivia Benson photos.” Her praise highlights how much thought goes into each aspect of Benson’s on-screen persona, from wardrobe to hair to makeup, creating a consistent and striking image that fans immediately recognize.
Hargitay also reflected on styles she didn’t love as much. For example, she recalled a 2006 photo from the Emmy Awards and admitted the hair color from that era wasn’t her favorite. Yet she focused on the positive: “I don’t think it’s my color. But I think the smile says it all — very happy time. I just won an Emmy and had my son here, so who cares about the hair?”
A Year of Milestones
That year was significant for both her personal and professional life. Hargitay earned the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series, cementing her legacy on the show. She also welcomed her first son, August, making it a moment of immense joy and pride. Hargitay’s reflection reminds fans that even amidst fame and awards, personal milestones leave the deepest mark.
Fans Anticipate Season 27
As SVU fans gear up for Season 27, premiering Thursday, September 25 at 9/8c on NBC, curiosity is high about what new looks Hargitay might bring for Benson. Over the years, her hairstyles have mirrored her character’s growth—from fierce and uncompromising detective to empathetic mentor and survivor. Season 27 promises to continue showcasing Benson’s strength and resilience, and Hargitay’s hair choices remain a subtle yet powerful extension of that storytelling.
Whether fans are drawn to Benson’s investigative brilliance, her moral compass, or her memorable hairstyles, one thing is certain: Hargitay continues to set the standard for long-running TV characters, blending performance, style, and authenticity in a way few actors can match.