The television universe has witnessed numerous successful series, but few have achieved the longevity and cultural impact of Law & Order: SVU. At the heart of this phenomenon is Mariska Hargitay, whose portrayal of Olivia Benson has left an indelible mark on millions of viewers.

T hroughout the long-running Law & Order franchise, many actors have come and gone, with very few sticking around for 20+ years. Mariska Hargitay has been the face of Law & Order:

Few actors can boast a television career as enduring and impactful as Mariska Hargitay’s. For over 25 years, she has portrayed Detective Olivia Benson on NBC’s Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (SVU). Hargitay took on the role in 1999 at age 35, and today, at 61, she remains one of TV’s most celebrated and recognizable stars.

They track down the bad guys and investigate heinous crimes on-screen, and they have been for nearly 26 years, but behind the scenes, the stars of Law & Order: SVU get to experience their own happy love stories away from all of the horror they endure on camera.

Mariska Hargitay and Ice T bring to life the characters of Detective Olivia Benson and Odafin "Fin" Tutuola, and their friendship is legendary among Law & Order SVU fans. However, on set, Ice T's demeanor is a topic of conversation according to the leading lady.