The long-time star of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit shared a humorous anecdote with Drew Barrymore during a January 2022 episode of The Drew Barrymore Show. Rest assured, her comment was made in good spirit — allow us to elaborate.
Hargitay recounted a comical incident that took place a few years prior involving both women. After attending a screening of the 2021 film Black Widow, which Barrymore also attended, Hargitay went home to prepare for the official after-party. Unfortunately, she slipped and fell outside her residence and had to be transported by ambulance!
To prevent any disruption to the party, Hargitay suggested that the star of 50 First Dates inform guests that she was ‘running errands,’ allowing the event to proceed smoothly.
‘No, it truly was not [disrupted],’ Barrymore remarked. ‘In fact, I explored your entire house, though not in an unsettling manner–’ ‘A bit unsettling, but please continue!’ Hargitay quipped.
Somewhat unsettling, yet as a devoted homemaker, I must express that your residence is likely among the most cherished homes I have ever visited throughout my life, Barrymore graciously admitted.
While it is true that Barrymore exhibited somewhat unsettling behavior by touring Hargitay’s residence during the latter’s hospitalization, the subsequent heartfelt compliments she offered mitigated any discomfort caused by her actions.
Having portrayed a character for as long as Hargitay has, one gains significant insights into oneself as an actor.
In a 2024 interview with Backstage, Hargitay shared her reflections while on the SVU set, emphasizing the importance of trusting not only herself but also her esteemed co-stars, Ice T and Peter Scanavino.
“The most crucial lesson I have learned is to have faith in stillness,” she stated. “Actors often struggle to believe they are sufficient or that they are doing enough.” Hargitay holds herself accountable during filming, frequently reassessing her performance. “Was I present? Was I focused? Was I contemplating the right thoughts? Was I being true to myself? This distinction is what separates mastering your craft from merely understanding it,” she elaborated.
After more than 25 years with SVU, she attributes her success to the collaborative spirit of her colleagues, which greatly facilitates her work. “Being part of an acting ensemble is truly wonderful; it may seem like a solitary endeavor, but it is not. It is a complete integration of the actors.”
