Mariska Hargitay Supports Rape Kit Testing Fund

Mariska Hargitay, known for her role as Captain Olivia Benson on 'Law & Order: SVU', has actively contributed to solving real-life sexual assault cases, particularly in Michigan where prosecutor Kym Worthy uncovered over 11,000 untested rape kits. Hargitay raised funds to test these kits, which led to the identification of 22 serial rapists, showcasing a significant impact on law enforcement and victims' rights across the country. This initiative is part of her broader 'End The Backlog' campaign through the Joyful Heart Foundation, aimed at addressing sexual violence and supporting survivors. Hargitay's commitment extends beyond her acting career, as demonstrated when she helped a lost child while filming, further blurring the lines between her on-screen and off-screen personas. Her advocacy has created a ripple effect in various police departments and prosecutorial offices nationwide, reinforcing the importance of addressing sexual violence in society. This recent work comes on the heels of Hargitay's personal experiences with sexual assault, which she has publicly shared to raise awareness and empathy for survivors.