Mariska Hargitay, the renowned actress from “Law & Order,” has always kept her family life private, but a rare photo of her hugging her 12-year-old daughter, Amaya, has melted hearts.
This loving moment is a testament to Mariska’s journey as a doting mother and wife.
![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](https://cdn.amomama.com/69745a334b9b2a4fb807406750a5513f95ee51e1ad8739d08be300856831d5dd.jpg)
Before adopting Amaya, Mariska faced a painful experience where a birth mother changed her mind about giving her child to the actress.
However, Mariska’s dream of having a daughter came true when an African-American mother entrusted her with her child.
![Mariska Hargitay, and Amaya Josephine Hermann on the "Law & Order SVU" set in New York City, 2011 | Source: Getty Images](https://cdn.amomama.com/aa89aa44eae2541b8d2bb5c379efb3f61e1324480b9d6e747556f1cb85eeca83.jpg)
Despite the challenges they faced during the adoption process, Mariska and her husband, Peter Hermann, remained determined to build a family.
Their son, August, was their firstborn, followed by Amaya, and later, baby Andrew, who was a surprise addition to the family. Mariska has always been open about her desire for a multiracial family, reflecting the diversity of the world.
![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](https://cdn.amomama.com/a09963db5f31e8fd0495848b60068654bd4bd9d3126fc4e3c288e5c66314f476.jpg)
Through her journey, Mariska has proven that with endurance and love, families can come together in the most beautiful ways. Despite the ups and downs, Mariska feels blessed to have her loving family and continues to cherish every moment with them.