Mariska Hargitay wins two Emmys for documentary on mother Jayne Mansfield

Mariska Hargitay took home two trophies at the 78th Creative Arts Emmy Awards for her documentary 'My Mom Jayne: A Film by Mariska Hargitay'. The film won Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Special and Outstanding Directing for a Documentary/Nonfiction Program, marking Hargitay's feature-film directorial debut.

The documentary explores the life and career of her mother, Hollywood icon Jayne Mansfield, using never-before-seen photographs and home videos. It premiered in June 2025 at the Cannes Film Festival and the Tribeca Festival, and is now streaming on HBO Max.

Accepting the award, Hargitay spoke about how the project helped her connect with her mother. She recalled a quote from Gloria Steinem about the power of sharing stories, saying, "I got to know my mother through telling this story, and it is a gift that is indescribable." She also thanked her husband, children, and the filmmaking team, dedicating the win to her mother.

Earlier, after the Emmy nominations were announced, Hargitay said she was "thrilled and deeply moved," adding, "It's an emotional moment, because what feels most natural to say is 'On behalf of my mom and myself, thank you.'" She also credited producer Trish Adlesic and cinematographer Tony Hardmon.

Hargitay is set to host the 2026 Primetime Emmy Awards on September 14. She previously won Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 2006 for 'Law & Order: Special Victims Unit'.

The other nominees in the Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Special category included films on John Candy, Martin Short, Mel Brooks, and David Attenborough's ocean documentary.