Mariska Hargitay, renowned actress and star of “Law & Order,” recently shared a rare moment with her 12-year-old daughter, Amaya. This heartwarming glimpse into their private life sheds light on Hargitay’s remarkable journey to motherhood.
Before adopting Amaya, Hargitay faced a painful experience where a mother changed her mind about giving up her child. However, this setback paved the way for Hargitay to welcome Amaya, born to an African-American mother, into her loving family.
Hargitay, 59, and her husband, Peter Hermann, 55, have three children: August, Andrew, and Amaya. Typically private about her family life, Hargitay has shared glimpses into her experiences as a mother.
A friend’s Instagram post revealed a heartwarming photo of Hargitay, her husband, son, and Amaya cuddled together. This rare public appearance showcased the close bond within their multiracial family.
Hargitay became a mother at 42, considered high-risk for pregnancy complications. After welcoming August, she and Hermann explored adoption, driven by their desire for a larger family.
The adoption process was challenging, with multiple false starts and a devastating experience where a birth mother changed her mind. However, Hargitay’s persistence paid off when she met Amaya’s birth mother, who shared her desire for an open adoption.
Amaya’s arrival in 2011 brought immense joy to the family. Hargitay described her as “surprisingly alert and full of love.” August, then four-and-a-half, was overjoyed, vowing to protect his new sister.
The family expanded unexpectedly with the arrival of Andrew, a surprise adoption that completed their loving family.
Reflecting on their journey, Hargitay emphasized the importance of embracing diversity, stating, “We wanted a multiracial family because that’s what the world is.” Today, Hargitay and Hermann cherish their beautiful, vibrant family, feeling blessed and grateful.
Through her experiences, Hargitay showcases resilience, love, and determination, inspiring others to embrace the beauty of family in all its forms.
