Mariska Hargitay, renowned for her role in “Law and Order: SVU,” has been married to Peter Hermann for nearly two decades.
Their love story began in November 2001 when Hermann guest-starred on the show, capturing Hargitay’s heart immediately, as noticed by her co-star Christopher Meloni.
Hargitay, previously engaged, felt an instant and profound connection with Hermann, distinct from her past relationships.
Their unique first date at a church confirmed Hargitay’s intuition that Hermann was her destined partner, despite an emotional moment that left her in tears during a service.
Their relationship, however, was not without its trials. Meloni recalls a time Hargitay sought comfort over relationship woes, convinced their romance was doomed. Despite these early hurdles, the couple wed in July 2004 and welcomed their first child, August, in 2006, despite Hargitay facing pregnancy complications.
Hargitay’s success on “SVU,” earning up to $540,000 per episode in 2021, has afforded her family luxurious living spaces, including a penthouse and an East Hampton mansion.
Currently, the family resides in an Upper West Side townhouse valued at $8.7 million, featuring modern amenities and ample space for their family life.
The couple expanded their family through adoption, welcoming daughter Amaya and son Andrew in 2011.
The adoptions, inspired by their biological son August’s requests for siblings, were always part of their family plan, despite the challenges and emotional hurdles they faced.
Hargitay credits her children and Hermann for teaching her the importance of being present and the power of teamwork in parenting.
Their complementary strengths and mutual understanding of each other’s careers have helped them maintain a balance between work and family life, creating a joyful and supportive household environment.
