Mariska Hargitay, known for her iconic role as Olivia Benson on Law & Order: SVU, has long been celebrated for her striking versatility when it comes to hairstyles. One of her standout looks from the early 2000s remains a jet-black bob that perfectly captured sophistication and elegance, cementing her status as a style icon.
A Nod to a Classic Look
A recent throwback photo has resurfaced, showcasing Hargitay filming the 13th episode of Season 1 of Law & Order: SVU titled “Disrobed.” In the image, Hargitay sports the chic bob that became synonymous with her character. The simplicity of the cut, combined with Hargitay’s radiant smile, made this hairstyle an instant classic among fans, many of whom still fondly remember it as the defining look of Detective Olivia Benson.
Hargitay’s hairstylist has mentioned how clients regularly bring in photos of her bob, requesting to replicate the iconic style. The actress herself is amused by the continued admiration for her early look. “My hairstylist always tells me that people come in and show him a photo of my hair and say, ‘I want this,’ which is so sweet,” Hargitay told Allure. “My fans are so hardcore that they even made a shirt about my hair evolution. It says ‘Benson’s Hair’ on it, and it’s so funny. That’s when you know your hair’s a thing.”
Hair Evolution: Long and Lovely
Although Hargitay has undergone several hairstyle changes throughout the years, she has expressed a particular fondness for longer hair, stating that it gives her a more feminine appearance. “I’ve learned by now that I’m just better with length,” Hargitay shared. “Plus, I love that longer hair makes me feel girly — my husband, Peter [Hermann], and kids love it too.”
A Love Built on Laughter
Off-screen, Hargitay’s personal life with her husband, actor Peter Hermann, is a testament to enduring love and humor. Married for over 20 years, the couple shares a deep connection that is strengthened by laughter. Hermann once shared with People, “I never thought I would have this much laughter in my life. Not just actual laughter, but also the way that Mariska is just the embodiment of laughter — of joy.”
Hargitay and Hermann have found that laughter is an essential part of their bond. “It’s the way we find our way back to each other,” Hermann explained. “It’s this fantastically, wonderfully ridiculous way that we can swing back and forth any number of times in any given day. But fundamentally we know we have the same destination. We know where we’re headed, and it’s good.”
Hargitay, reflecting on her relationship, added, “I’m at a point in my life where it just keeps getting better with him. And marriage is not always like this… but you know, I have learned so much.”
Mariska Hargitay continues to shine not only on screen but also in her personal life, proving that her beauty, strength, and wisdom only deepen with time.
