Mariska Hargitay, the beloved star of Law & Order, is embracing a new chapter in her career, one that involves embracing challenges and stepping out of her comfort zone. In a recent interview with Savannah Guthrie on Today, Hargitay opened up about the unexpected obstacles she faced as she ventured into new creative territories.
One of the most intriguing moments Hargitay recounted was a phone call she received backstage during her Broadway play, Every Brilliant Thing. Just as she was about to go onstage, the head of the NBC network called her, and Hargitay joked that she thought she was getting fired. Instead, she was offered the role of host for the upcoming Emmys, a surprising turn of events.
Hargitay initially struggled to comprehend why she was being considered for this position, which is typically reserved for comedians. She recalled, 'I couldn't understand it because I thought, 'I'm not a comedian and it's historically comedians.' It was probably the farthest thing from my mind that I thought she was gonna say. So I actually was kind of shocked.'
Despite her initial reservations, Hargitay decided to take a leap of faith. She reflected, 'Why not? Which is kind of where I am in my life. And I was so incredibly honored, and again, knowing that it was the first woman in 15 years to host the Emmys, was absolutely thrilling.'
Hargitay's willingness to embrace new challenges extends beyond the Emmys. She also shared her experience performing on Broadway, calling it 'extraordinary.' She loved the process of sitting with the material for an extended period, finding it to be a valuable learning experience. Additionally, she appeared in a regional theater play, where her sister served as the artistic director, and she relished the opportunity to revisit her craft.
Hargitay's journey highlights the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone and embracing new challenges. Her willingness to take risks has not only led to exciting opportunities but also to personal growth and a deeper appreciation for her craft. As she continues to explore new creative territories, Hargitay serves as an inspiration to others who are seeking to push their boundaries and discover new passions.
