The cast of Law & Order: SVU recently came together to show their support for Mariska Hargitay, who plays the iconic character Olivia Benson on the long-running series. The celebration took place at NBC’s Olivia Benson Plaza event at Rockefeller Center in New York City on March 14 and 15, marking the show's 25th anniversary.
Ryan Buggle, who portrays Olivia Benson's son on the show, shared his admiration for Hargitay, highlighting the valuable lessons he has learned from her. Buggle emphasized the importance of authenticity and staying true to oneself while acting.
During the event, Buggle enthusiastically participated in serving fans beverages from the 'Benson & Co. Coffee' truck, showcasing his dedication to honoring his onscreen mother. The curated menu featured drinks named after various characters from the show, adding a fun touch to the celebration.
Octavio Pisano, who plays Det. Joe Velasco, expressed his admiration for Hargitay's professionalism and shared insights gained from working with her, especially during the episode she directed. The cast members praised Hargitay for her commitment to helping elevate their performances and supporting them on set.
Kevin Kane, known for his role as Det. Terry Bruno, reflected on his experience working with Hargitay when she directed an episode in the past. He highlighted her dedication to guiding actors and fostering a collaborative environment on set.
The affection and respect for Mariska Hargitay were evident throughout the event, with the cast members expressing their gratitude and admiration for her. Buggle summed up the sentiment by suggesting a bracelet inscription that simply read, 'Mariska, you're the best.'
Law & Order: Special Victims Unit continues to captivate audiences, airing on Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET on NBC. Fans can stay updated on the latest news and episodes by signing up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter.