Mariska Hargitay, widely recognized for her role in “Law & Order,” recently appeared in a rare family photo, warmly embracing her 12-year-old adopted daughter, Amaya. The image, shared by a close friend, highlighted a beautiful family moment, but the story behind it is one of patience, resilience, and deep love.
Years before Amaya joined their family, Mariska and her husband, Peter Hermann, faced the heartbreaking experience of a failed adoption. They had bonded with a newborn girl for two days, only to be told that the biological mother had changed her mind. Though devastated, they refused to lose hope, believing that the right child would eventually find them.
Their prayers were answered when they were introduced to a pregnant woman looking for a loving home for her baby. From their very first meeting, Mariska knew this time was different. The mother was confident in her decision, and they formed an immediate bond. The fact that Amaya was African-American didn’t matter; Mariska and Peter welcomed the idea of a multiracial family, seeing it as a reflection of the real world.
In April 2011, they welcomed Amaya into their home, and from the start, she fit right in. Their eldest son, August, was especially thrilled, proudly calling Amaya “his baby” and promising to take care of her.
Shortly after, fate had one more surprise in store. Their lawyer reached out with news of a baby boy in need of adoption. Without hesitation, Mariska and Peter said yes, welcoming Andrew into their growing family.
Looking back, Mariska is grateful for every twist and turn in their adoption journey. Though there were difficult moments, she now sees them as part of a beautiful path that led to the family she adores.
