"Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" star Mariska Hargitay recently proved that her on-screen heroism translates to real-life situations. During a pre-Thanksgiving interview taping for "Today," Hargitay, along with host Willie Geist, assisted two individuals in need.
Prior to Hargitay's arrival, Geist helped a woman using a cane who had fallen in a crosswalk. Shortly after, as Hargitay arrived on the scene, a man in an electric wheelchair lost control when a wheel detached. Hargitay, Geist, and a cameraman sprang into action, helping the man back into his chair while Hargitay reattached the wheel. A "Today" show spokesperson confirmed the incident, noting the interview was being filmed at a courthouse frequently used by "SVU."
This wasn't the first time Hargitay's actions mirrored those of her character, Olivia Benson. Earlier this year, while filming in New York City, a child mistook Hargitay in her "SVU" costume for a real police officer and asked for help finding her mother. Hargitay stepped in, assisting the child until she was reunited with her parent.
Hargitay's interview with "Today" is scheduled to air on January 12, 2025. Season 26 of "Law & Order: SVU," currently on a holiday break, will return on January 16. The show holds the record as the longest-running prime-time live-action series in American television history, with Hargitay's portrayal of Olivia Benson spanning the entire series.
