In a stunning revelation that shakes the foundations of her family legacy, Mariska Hargitay has disclosed the identity of her biological father after keeping it a closely guarded secret for over 30 years. The actress, best known for her role in “Law & Order: SVU,” shares this shocking truth in her new documentary “My Mom Jane,” set to premiere at the Cannes Film Festival on May 17th.
Hargitay, now 61, explores her family’s complex history, focusing on her late mother, the iconic 1960s 𝓈ℯ𝓍 symbol Jayne Mansfield, who tragically died when Mariska was just three years old. In an exclusive interview with Vanity Fair, she reveals that Mickey Hargitay, her beloved adoptive father, is not her biological parent — a discovery that hit her like a bolt from the blue when she first encountered a photograph of Italian entertainer Nelson Sardelli. “I immediately knew he was my real father,” she stated, though her first meeting with Sardelli was anything but a warm reunion. “I went full Olivia Benson on him,” she recalled, emphasizing her loyalty to Mickey, who raised her with deep love and devotion.
Despite the emotional turmoil of this revelation, Hargitay expresses gratitude for the choices made for her, stating, “I grew up where I was supposed to,” and underscores her ongoing loyalty to the man who cherished her. This personal journey, which she captures in her documentary, serves as a cathartic release, allowing her to unburden the family’s longstanding secrets.
As the premiere date approaches, anticipation builds for the insights Hargitay will share about her life, her mother’s legacy, and the profound impact of uncovering her true lineage. This is a family story unlike any other — one filled with love, loyalty, and the quest for identity.