In a recent interview, Mariska Hargitay, the esteemed actress behind Captain Olivia Benson on

“Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” candidly discussed her future with the long-standing NBC crime drama.

Having portrayed Benson since 1999, Hargitay acknowledged contemplating her eventual departure from the series. She shared, “I have thought about that. Not yet. Just thought about it for way later. But I’m open.”

At 60, Hargitay remains deeply committed to her role on “SVU” but is also enthusiastic about exploring new challenges. She described herself as “a very active person with a lot of irons in the fire,” emphasizing her trust in the future and her belief that she will be where she’s meant to be. While she finds her work on “SVU” fulfilling, Hargitay hinted at other aspirations, stating there are “definitely things that I want to do and achieve [to] challenge myself with.”

Beyond her on-screen endeavors, Hargitay is a passionate advocate for survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse. She founded the Joyful Heart Foundation, aiming to “heal, educate and empower” those affected by such traumas. In collaboration with Purina’s Purple Leash Project, Hargitay works to make domestic violence shelters pet-friendly, addressing the alarming statistic that “89 percent of victims of domestic violence had their pet threatened or hurt.” This initiative ensures that survivors don’t have to choose between their safety and their pets.

Reflecting on her character’s journey, Hargitay envisions a hopeful conclusion for Captain Benson. She expressed a desire for Benson to reach a point where she feels her service is complete, allowing her to “rest and be and see the best that life has to offer.” This includes sharing her life with someone special and focusing on the joys of motherhood. As the adoptive mother of Noah Porter-Benson, Benson’s personal life has been a significant aspect of her character development.

Hargitay’s dedication to her role has not been without challenges. She admitted to periods of introspection, especially following the departure of co-star Christopher Meloni in Season 12. During these times, she engaged in “a lot of soul-searching” to determine her path forward. Ultimately, her passion for the role and the stories they tell reignited her commitment to the series. She noted, “I feel so newly challenged and inspired and excited, which just surprises me.”

As for her immediate future, Hargitay teased a significant announcement slated for January, though she remained tight-lipped about the details. This hint has sparked curiosity among fans and industry insiders alike, eager to see what new ventures she might undertake.

In conclusion, while Mariska Hargitay has contemplated life beyond “Law & Order: SVU,” her current focus remains on delivering compelling performances as Captain Olivia Benson. Her unwavering commitment to advocacy, combined with her passion for storytelling, ensures that whatever path she chooses, it will be impactful and inspiring.