Mariska Hargitay Reminisces About SVU Audition & Christopher Meloni Friendship

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As a gaming enthusiast, I can’t help but share a behind-the-scenes tidbit from the world of TV. Mariska Hargitay and Christopher Meloni, stars of Law & Order: SVU, have been friends for over two decades now. Remembering their early days, Hargitay recounted their joint audition for the iconic crime drama series. They were cast as detectives Olivia Benson and Elliot Stabler, a partnership that’s lasted through the years. After so many seasons, it’s fascinating to hear about their long-standing friendship and on-screen chemistry – a bond forged in the heat of solving crimes together.

Here’s what she said.

Mariska Hargitay talks about her SVU audition and friendship with Christopher Meloni

During a recent conversation with Today, Mariska Hargitay reflected on their auditions for SVU alongside Meloni. She disclosed that as soon as they walked into the room, although they were unfamiliar with each other, Dick Wolf instinctively knew in that very moment that they were meant to act together on the show.

Hargitay referred to the audition as a “unique opportunity” that seldom comes around. She went on to share her thoughts when Meloni walked into the room during one of her callbacks. “As soon as he entered, I got a feeling and thought, ‘That’s the man.’ … It was clear to me that he was the right person, and it seems he felt the same way,” she explained.

As a dedicated fan, I’d put it this way: “I noticed right from the start that there was something special between them – call it a magnetic pull or an unspoken understanding. Even during our heated arguments or disagreements, or when the tension ran high, that spark remained. It’s chemistry, isn’t it?

Earlier, during an interview with People, Hargitay admitted that when she initially encountered Meloni for a screen test, she thought he was John Slattery, famous for playing Roger Sterling in Mad Men.

Later on, she discussed her close relationship with Meloni. “We connected, and since then, our friendship has become legendary,” the actor explained. “He’s had an immense impact on my life, someone I hold dear.

At present, Hargitay is wedded to Peter Hermann and they are parents to a family of three. In contrast, Meloni is married to Sherman Williams and together they have two children.

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2025-01-14 08:10