When Mariska Hargitay turned 42, she welcomed her first biological child

A baby boy named August, delivered by Caesarean section.

Despite numerous attempts to expand their family, Mariska and her husband

Peter Hermann, desired a larger family, prompting them to pursue adoption.

Mariska is renowned for her role as Detective Olivia Benson in “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” earning accolades such as Emmy and Golden Globe awards.

Beyond her acting career, she has directed episodes of the show and is deeply committed to supporting survivors of domestic violence, child abuse, and sexual assault through her non-profit organization, the “Joyful Heart Foundation.”

Mariska and Peter tied the knot in 2004 and chose to expand their family through adoption, welcoming multiracial children into their lives. One of these adoptions was particularly challenging, described as akin to a miraculous occurrence.

Aside from her professional achievements, Mariska cherishes her role as a mother. Becoming a parent later in life imbued each day with newfound significance, with her first child, August, bringing unparalleled joy and depth to her life.

Following the birth of her first child, Mariska encountered difficulties conceiving again due to her age. Nevertheless, both Mariska and Peter, who hail from large families themselves, harbored a desire to adopt children even before their own biological child.

Mariska’s personal history, including the loss of her mother at a young age, instilled in her the understanding that parenthood transcends biological ties.

Determined to expand their family through adoption despite challenges, Mariska and Peter embarked on a rigorous journey that included setbacks and heartbreaks.

One particularly poignant episode involved a promising match with a pregnant woman expecting a girl. Despite initial optimism, the birth mother ultimately decided to keep her child, leaving Mariska heartbroken yet ultimately wishing the best for the birth mother.

Undeterred by setbacks, Mariska and Peter persisted in their adoption journey, driven by their son August’s wish for a sibling. Their perseverance led to the adoption of Amaya, a newborn girl whose arrival brought immense joy to the family.

Subsequently, the couple unexpectedly welcomed a third child, Andrew, whose arrival Mariska described as akin to a miracle. Following Andrew’s arrival, the family lost a close friend named Andrew, making the newborn’s adoption all the more poignant.

Mariska and Peter embraced parenthood with enthusiasm, supporting their children’s diverse interests and developmental needs. They navigated challenges, including Andrew’s premature birth, with unwavering love and dedication.

Mariska, deeply connected to her family and deeply engaged as a mother, credits her children with teaching her the value of listening and sees her husband as her guiding light.

Despite the challenges inherent in adoption, Mariska wouldn’t have it any other way, cherishing her imperfect yet perfect family. Feel free to share this heartwarming tale with your loved ones.