‘Law & Order: SVU’: The Gift Mariska Hargitay Received From Peter Hermann That Made Her Cry

Law & Order: SVU star Mariska Hargitay and Younger star Peter Hermann have a love story that has endured its fair share of challenges before culminating in a beautiful marriage in 2004. Hargitay shares a touching moment from their early relationship that brought her to tears.

Overcoming Rough Patches

Before tying the knot, Hargitay and Hermann faced several breakups. One significant split happened around Thanksgiving. Hargitay, having prepared an elaborate dinner for a large group, was deeply upset when Hermann was the first to leave. Hermann, on the other hand, was trying to communicate his need for space to reflect on their relationship’s future.

“I remember it was Thanksgiving, and he came to my house,” Hargitay recounts in What Makes a Marriage Last by Marlo Thomas and Phil Donahue. “I had all these people over—it was beautiful and a very big deal—and he was the first to leave. I thought, Wait, what? Are you in or are you out? I’m in, but I’m only in if we’re both in. I was in love and ready to really move forward.”

A Special Valentine’s Day

The couple reunited and went on a memorable Valentine’s Day date. During this date, they exchanged gifts, and to their surprise, they had bought each other the same book by artist Andy Goldsworthy. This moment was significant for both of them, and Hargitay couldn’t hold back her tears.

Hermann explained to Donahue and Thomas that he felt a sense of peace about their relationship after realizing they were in sync. Reflecting on that time, he said, “It was like more and more news was arriving that this was something to be greatly at peace about.”

Tears of Realization

This wasn’t the first time Hargitay found herself moved to tears with Hermann. During their first date at a church service, she was overwhelmed with emotion, realizing she had found the one. She felt deeply that their meeting was orchestrated by a higher power.

“Why was I crying in church about him?” Hargitay pondered during her interview with Thomas and Donahue. “It can’t be physical. Yes, you’re attractive, but I don’t cry over handsome people, so what was that thing that I knew? Grace. That God had put me here. I’m constantly reminded—and there have been these reminders all along the way—that this is right. Stay in. Do the work. The payoff is huge.”

The Power of Love

Hargitay and Hermann’s relationship is a testament to the power of love, perseverance, and mutual understanding. Their story reminds us that the journey to finding lasting love often involves overcoming obstacles and growing together through shared experiences.