Mariska Hargitay, widely recognized for her long-standing role as Capt. Olivia Benson on “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” has recently expanded her professional repertoire beyond acting. This year, she made her directorial debut with the documentary “My Mom Jayne,” which explores the life of her late mother, actress Jayne Mansfield. The film earned Hargitay an Emmy for directing and allowed her to explore her mother’s complex legacy in new depth.

Earlier this summer, Hargitay completed a six-week run on Broadway in the one-woman show “Every Brilliant Thing,” marking another significant milestone in her career. Most recently, she served as host of the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards, broadcast on NBC and streaming on Peacock, an opportunity she described as unexpected yet exciting.

Reflecting on her documentary, Hargitay shared how the project helped her gain a more nuanced understanding of Mansfield, contrasting the public persona with the private woman she has come to know through research and family memories. She remarked that her mother was often misunderstood and confined to a caricature, a perception she sought to break through the film. The documentary also provided a personal gift in the form of previously unseen photographs and moments of connection between mother and daughter, enriching Hargitay’s sense of their bond.

Hargitay emphasized the ongoing theme of resisting being narrowly defined, both in relation to her mother’s multifaceted life and her own evolving career. She noted that the challenges and sacrifices her mother endured paved the way for the possibilities Hargitay herself embraces today.

Balancing her expanding work commitments with family life remains a priority. Her husband, Peter Hermann, has been supportive yet cautious about her demanding schedule, which includes filming the 28th season of “SVU” and managing her foundation alongside new projects. Hargitay acknowledged the workload involved, describing it as a marathon, though she remains driven and fulfilled.

Asked about catching up on television shows amidst her busy schedule, Hargitay revealed she has begun watching series such as “The Gilded Age,” “DTF St. Louis,” and “Widow’s Bay,” treating the activity as a form of homework to stay connected to current storytelling.

Regarding a personal detail highlighted in the documentary, Hargitay acquired and installed her mother’s piano in her home. While she has yet to play since the arrival of her theatrical and Emmy hosting engagements, she expressed anticipation about returning to it during a quieter autumn period.

With multiple creative pursuits underway and a prominent hosting role behind her, Mariska Hargitay continues to build a varied and dynamic career, while honoring her personal history and managing the demands of her professional and family life.