Mariska Hargitay, best known for her role as Captain Olivia Benson on Law & Order: SVU, has disclosed that she once pursued the iconic role of Monica Geller on the hit sitcom Friends. During an engaging conversation on Amy Poehler’s Good Hang podcast, Hargitay shared her experience of auditioning and screen-testing multiple times for the part that ultimately went to Courteney Cox.
Reflecting on her early career aspirations, Hargitay mentioned her initial focus on comedy. She recounted her participation in various sitcom auditions, including notable shows such as Seinfeld and The Single Guy. “I always thought I would end up being on a sitcom or doing comedy,” she stated. “I was like, I want to do drama, but it has to be funny because that’s what I felt like my gifts were.”
Hargitay, an Emmy-winning actress, expressed her belief in her comedic abilities, often telling others that she would become a comedian because she viewed herself as “funny” and “pretty.” She also pursued formal training with the Groundlings, a prominent improv troupe based in Los Angeles.
In her candid discussion, Hargitay recalled an encounter with a psychic during her early struggles as an actor. The psychic told her, “You’re going to be famous for that face. You’re moving to New York and you’re gonna be famous for that face.” This prediction seemed to resonate with her as she continued her journey in the entertainment industry.
Despite her aspirations in comedy, Hargitay’s career took a significant turn when she was cast in Law & Order: SVU just six months later, leading her to become a household name. Her journey highlights the unpredictability of Hollywood and the various paths actors can take in their careers.
The revelation about her audition for Friends adds another layer to Hargitay’s impressive career, showcasing her versatility as an actress and her early ambitions in comedy. As she continues to shine in her role on Law & Order: SVU, fans are reminded of the myriad of opportunities that exist in the competitive world of television.
