Mariska Hargitay to Direct Documentary on Her Late Mother Jayne Mansfield
Mariska Hargitay, acclaimed star of Law & Order: SVU, is set to make her debut in feature directing with a deeply personal documentary focusing on her mother, the iconic film star Jayne Mansfield.
Upcoming Premiere Details
The highly anticipated documentary, titled My Mom Jayne, is scheduled for release on HBO in June. This film represents Hargitay’s journey to explore her mother’s life, offering insights into both her public persona and private character, as described in the documentary’s logline. The film comprises personal interviews and a treasure trove of never-before-seen family photographs and home videos, shedding light on Jayne Mansfield’s legacy and the profound impact she had on her audience and loved ones.
A Glimpse into Jayne Mansfield’s Life
Jayne Mansfield, a celebrated actress and a prominent sex symbol during the 1950s and 1960s, was Hargitay’s mother, and her father was Mickey Hargitay, a well-known actor and bodybuilder. Tragically, Mansfield lost her life in a car crash in 1967, leaving behind a 3-year-old Hargitay and her older siblings. Remarkably, they survived the accident.
A Personal Journey of Discovery
Reflecting on the documentary, Hargitay remarked, “This movie is a labor of love and longing. It’s a search for the mother I never knew, an integration of a part of myself I’d never owned, and a reclaiming of my mother’s story and my own truth.” She emphasized the importance of vulnerability in the creative process, stating that the journey of making this film has significantly reinforced her belief in the strength that comes from being open about one’s emotions.
Production Team and Future Endeavors
In addition to her role as director and producer, Hargitay has previously directed several episodes of SVU but this marks her first venture into feature-length filmmaking. Trish Adlesic, who collaborated with Hargitay on the HBO documentary I Am Evidence, is also part of the production team, alongside executive producer Lauren Bromley. Hargitay’s representation includes CAA, The Lede Company, and Grubman Shire.
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