Mariska Hargitay Channels Gloria Steinem’s Final Plea at the Emmys

Steinem, who passed away on September 2 at age 92, left behind a parting challenge in her posthumous Famous Last Words interview. She argued that sharing personal narratives remains the most significant contribution individuals can offer one another. For Hargitay, this message resonated deeply as she reflected on the arduous process of directing a film about her late mother, Jayne Mansfield—a project she initially hesitated to helm.

Standing at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, Hargitay connected her own journey of self-discovery to Steinem’s philosophy. The documentary, which utilizes home videos to explore the life of the 1960s sex symbol who died in a 1967 car crash, forced Hargitay to confront the parallels between their lives. By highlighting Steinem’s words, the actress framed the act of storytelling not merely as a creative endeavor, but as a vital tool for innovation and connection in a global society.

Steinem’s influence extended well beyond the stage, with figures like Hillary Clinton and Meghan Markle similarly honoring her role in dismantling institutional barriers. Throughout her final years, the activist remained a staunch advocate for individual autonomy, notably reaffirming her choice to lead a childfree life. By weaving Steinem’s directive into her acceptance speech, Hargitay ensured that the activist’s call for radical personal honesty remained at the forefront of the evening’s discourse.