Mariska Hargitay’s Bold Move to Stop Name Mispronunciations on SVU
Mariska Hargitay, the iconic star of Law & Order: SVU, has faced her fair share of name mispronunciations over the years. Despite her decades-long career, even close friends and family sometimes get it wrong. To address this, Hargitay has taken a humorous approach on set, ensuring her name is pronounced correctly.
Mariska Hargitay, renowned for her role as Captain Olivia Benson on Law & Order: SVU, has long dealt with the mispronunciation of her name. During an appearance on Amy Poehler's Good Hang podcast, Hargitay revealed that even those closest to her often say “Muh-ris-kuh” instead of the correct “Muh-rish-kuh.” This Hungarian diminutive of "Maria" honors her grandmothers and carries deep personal significance.
To combat this, Hargitay has adopted a playful strategy on set. She now writes her name on call sheets as “MARISHHHHHHKA,” emphasizing the “sh” sound to guide her colleagues. This lighthearted approach not only corrects the mispronunciations but also brings a touch of humor to the workplace.
Despite her efforts, some cast members, including co-star Christopher Meloni, still occasionally tease her with variations like “Maritza.” However, Hargitay takes these moments in stride, appreciating the camaraderie and the opportunity to educate others about her heritage.
Her story highlights the broader issue of name mispronunciations in the entertainment industry. Many celebrities, such as Kirsten Dunst, have shared similar experiences, shedding light on the importance of respecting and correctly pronouncing individuals' names.
Conclusion
Mariska Hargitay's humorous approach to correcting her name on the SVU set serves as a reminder of the significance of names and the cultural heritage they represent. Her willingness to address the issue with humor and grace fosters a more inclusive and respectful environment on set.