Mariska Hargitay Unveils Surprising Truth About Her Biological Father

Mariska Hargitay has shared a family secret that has remained hidden for over three decades.

During the Cannes Film Festival this past Saturday, the star of “Law & Order: SVU” disclosed at the premiere of her documentary titled “My Mom Jayne” that her biological father is Nelson Sardelli, a former Las Vegas entertainer. She was raised by the late actor and bodybuilder Mickey Hargitay.

In an interview with Vanity Fair, the actress expressed her struggle with the notion of living a lie for so many years. However, the truth eventually revealed itself to her.

“I grew up where I was supposed to, and I do know that everyone made the best choice for me,” Hargitay stated. “I’m Mickey Hargitay’s daughter. That is not a lie. This documentary serves as a love letter to him, as he was the closest person to me on this planet.”

The 61-year-old actress fondly remembered her father, who passed away in 2006 at the age of 80. She described him as her everything, stating, “He loved me so much, and I knew it. I also knew something else; I just didn’t know what I knew.”

While growing up, Hargitay often felt a sense of difference from her siblings, a feeling she later understood had deep roots.

Hargitay’s Family Background

In 1963, Jayne Mansfield, Hargitay’s mother, filed for divorce from Mickey. Following this, she entered into a high-profile relationship with Sardelli. Despite the whirlwind of her mother’s love life, Hargitay enjoyed a reconciliation with Mickey several months before her birth in 1964.

When Hargitay reached her twenties, someone showed her a photograph of Sardelli. Instantly, she felt a connection, realizing in her gut that he was her biological father. “It was like the floor fell out from under me,” she said during the documentary.

A Painful Discovery

Mansfield tragically lost her life in a car crash in 1967 when she was just 34. At the time, Hargitay was only 3 years old, sound asleep in the back seat of the vehicle during the accident.

After contemplating the possibility of Sardelli being her biological father, Hargitay confronted Mickey, only to face denial. The painful discussion left such an impact that she never mentioned Sardelli to Mickey again.

Years later, at the age of 30, Hargitay attended a performance by Sardelli in Atlantic City. Upon introducing herself, he broke down in tears, telling her, “I’ve been waiting for this moment for 30 years.” This pivotal encounter strengthened Hargitay’s bond with the man who raised her and her siblings after their mother’s passing.

“I went full Olivia Benson on him,” she recounted to Vanity Fair about their first meeting. “I was like, ‘I don’t want anything. I don’t need anything from you … I have a dad.’ Something inside me demanded loyalty. I wanted to remain loyal to Mickey.”

Building Bridges

Over time, Hargitay established a connection with Sardelli, now 90, and his daughters. When the documentary’s release drew closer, she encountered skepticism from many who were concerned about sharing her story. Ultimately, both families offered their support, allowing Hargitay to include insights from her siblings: Jayne Marie, Zoltan, and Mickey Jr.

The Sardelli daughters were overwhelmed with emotion during a private screening of the documentary, tears flowing as they watched. “These two women that I love so much – I made them secrets!” Hargitay lamented. “This is so heartbreaking for me. I’m not comfortable with lies. That’s why I wanted to create this film to liberate all of us.”

The documentary also served as a means for Hargitay to confront her mother’s loss. “I don’t remember the accident,” she shared. “I don’t even remember learning that my mom had died. I only recall glimpses from when I was five years old.”

The Legacy of Jayne Mansfield

Jayne Mansfield, originally Vera Jayne Palmer, rose to fame as an actress and glamour icon, known for her ability to speak multiple languages and play several musical instruments. A casting director suggested that she change her appearance, including lightening her hair and wearing figure-hugging dresses, which gave birth to her trademark look. Like Marilyn Monroe, Mansfield faced challenges in being recognized as a serious actress.

Hargitay reflected on her mother’s persona. “When I’d hear that fake voice, it completely confused me,” she recalled. “I wondered why she would talk like that. [But] my dad always reminded me, ‘She wasn’t like that at all. She was witty, fearless, and real—just like you.’”

Cherishing the Truth

As Hargitay continues to navigate her complex family history, her documentary serves not only as a personal exploration but also as a tribute to the relationships that shaped her life. By revealing her truth, she hopes to inspire others to embrace their own stories and celebrate their identities.