Mariska Hargitay’s Heartwarming Journey to Motherhood

Mariska Hargitay, the beloved actress known for her iconic role in “Law & Order,” recently shared a heartwarming moment with her only daughter, Amaya Hermann. In a rare photo, we catch a glimpse of the beautiful bond between them, shedding light on Hargitay’s journey to motherhood – a journey that has been filled with both joy and challenges.

Mariska Hargitay & Teen Adopted Daughter Hug in Rare Pic Years after She Cried Becoming Her Mom

A Painful Experience Turns into a Blessing

Before Amaya came into her life, Hargitay experienced a painful ordeal when a birth mother changed her mind about giving her child to the actress. However, fate had a different plan. An African-American mother trusted Hargitay with her child, and she became a loving and devoted mother to little Amaya. Today, Hargitay considers herself incredibly blessed to have a multiracial family.

August, and Peter Hermann, Mariska Hargitay, and Tshidi Manye backstage at the Broadway musical production of "The Lion King" in New York City, 2010 | Source: Getty Images

A Private Life Shielding Her Loved Ones

Mariska Hargitay, now 59 years old, values her privacy when it comes to her family life. She prefers to keep her children, including Amaya and her two sons, August and Andrew, out of the limelight. Recently, a close friend posted an Instagram photo of the actress and her family at a restaurant, giving us a rare glimpse of Hargitay, her husband Peter Hermann, one of their sons, and 12-year-old Amaya cuddled together, radiating warmth and love.

Mariska Hargitay, and Amaya Josephine Hermann on the "Law & Order SVU" set in New York City, 2011 | Source: Getty Images

Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Adoption

Becoming a mother for the first time at the age of 42, Hargitay faced heightened risks due to her age. She gave birth to her son, August, and a few years later, she and her husband made the decision to expand their family through adoption. Their journey was not without obstacles and false starts, but they persevered. However, their hearts were broken when a birth mother changed her mind after they had already bonded with their newborn for two days.

Amaya, August, and Andrew Hermann, and Mariska Hargitay at The Children's Museum Of The East End 5th Annual Family Fair in Bridgehampton, 2013 | Source: Getty Images

Tears of Joy: Amaya Enters Their Lives

Despite the previous setbacks, Hargitay and Hermann found hope once again. They were introduced to a young pregnant woman who was willing to give her baby up for adoption. Although cautious not to get their hopes up, Hargitay couldn’t help but feel excited after meeting the expectant mother, whom she described as bright and incredible. This time, their dreams became a reality.

A Multiracial Family Built on Love

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Following a successful visit, ongoing communication, and the birth of the baby, Hargitay received a life-changing phone call from the mother while on set for “Law & Order SVU.” This time, the tears shed were tears of joy – the birth mother had chosen them. And so, in April 2011, Amaya Josephine Hermann, whose name symbolizes princess, warrior, and night rain, became a cherished member of the Hargitay-Hermann family. They were overjoyed to have a multiracial family that beautifully reflects the diversity of the world.

An Unexpected Addition to the Family

The Hargitay-Hermann family experienced another unexpected blessing when their lawyer informed them of another baby boy available for adoption. Without a moment’s hesitation, Hargitay and Hermann welcomed baby Andrew into their lives, just months after Amaya’s arrival. Despite the challenges and uncertainties they faced during their adoption journey, Hargitay and Hermann feel incredibly blessed to have their remarkable and loving multiracial family.