From NBC.com :

Det. Olivia Benson (Mariska Hargitay)

Olivia Benson joined the Special Victims Unit due to her own painful past. She has since proven herself to be a competent, street-smart cop, but can’t help responding emotionally to victims of the terrible crimes she investigates. In fact, Benson often uses herself as bait when tracking dangerous criminals. She and her partner, Detective Stabler, have an amiable, professional relationship.

My comment : To be honest, I don’t really know much about Mariska Hargitay real life. I know her better from her character as Olivia Benson. That’s why when I mention about my new hero, I prefer to say “Olivia” then “Mariska”. It’s only fair because I never seen Mariska in any other movies/shows, but I saw her as Olivia Benson in Law and Order : SVU for almost everyday.

About Olivia, she’s a very dedicated detective. She has a very warmt but strong personality, cool and wise. She’s a role model for every woman.