Mariska Hargitay, known for her role as Olivia Benson on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, has shared a deeply personal and emotional experience on the latest episode of the podcast Call Her Daddy. The 61-year-old actress sat down with Alex Cooper to discuss her journey of self-discovery, including the moment she learned about her biological father, Nelson Sardelli.

A Life-Changing Revelation

Hargitay was 25 years old when she discovered the truth about her parentage. She recalled feeling "overwhelmed" and "like her life was over" when she was shown a photo of her biological father by Sabin Gray, the head of the Jayne Mansfield fan club. Gray had invited Hargitay to his home, where he showed her a collection of memorabilia and photos of her mother, Jayne Mansfield. When he asked if she wanted to see a picture of Nelson, Hargitay knew instantly that he was her biological father.

Hargitay kept the revelation a secret for over three decades, but she has now opened up about the experience in her documentary, My Mom Jayne, which premieres on HBO Max on June 27.

A Painful Confrontation

Hargitay recalled confronting her father, Mickey Hargitay, about the truth after verifying the information with her brother. Mickey denied the allegations, but Hargitay knew the truth. She described the confrontation as "extraordinarily painful" and said it was the moment she "became an adult."

Hargitay's story is a powerful reminder that the truth can be painful, but it can also set us free. Her courage in sharing her experience is an inspiration to many, and her documentary, My Mom Jayne, promises to be a deeply personal and emotional exploration of her family dynamics.

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