Best-known to millions of loyal “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” (NBC, 1999- ) viewers as Detective Olivia Benson, Mariska Hargitay was born around show business and paid her dues in both film and TV before “S.V.U.” finally thrust her into the spotlight. After a long road in failed sitcoms and forgettable films, she finally landed guest roles as smart, powerful women in a series of police dramas. The chemistry proved just right for her authoritative style. Critics were quick to recognize the talent Hargitay brought to “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” nominating her several times for Best Actress Emmys and Golden Globes before she finally snared the coveted Emmy in 2006 and a Golden Globe in 2005.
If you haven't completely blocked out last year's debacle of an Emmy presentation (during which five reality hosts took turns doling out hokey lines), and you caught any of this year's show hosted by the charming Neil Patrick Harris, then you know: What a difference a year makes. more »
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