My Mom Jayne

Mariska Hargitay recently paid a heartfelt tribute to her late mother, the iconic actress Jayne Mansfield, through her fashion choice. During her appearance on *The Late Show with Stephen Colbert* on June 16, 2025, Hargitay donned a striking beaded suit that echoed a similar look her mother wore at the Cannes Film Festival in 1958. This poignant homage not only highlighted her mother’s legacy but also showcased Hargitay’s personal connection to her past. As she took her seat on the show, host Stephen Colbert immediately complimented her outfit, noting the intricate silver beads adorning her blazer. Hargitay responded with warmth, revealing the significance behind her attire. “It’s a little homage,” she said, explaining that her mother had worn a dress resembling her suit at the famous film festival decades earlier. The emotional weight of the moment was palpable, as Hargitay shared how these memories shaped her understanding of her mother’s legacy. Hargitay, 61, has been on a quest to explore her mother’s life more deeply, a journey she documents in her upcoming film, *My Mom Jayne*. “I’ve spent my whole life distancing myself from my mother,” she remarked in the trailer for the documentary, which was released on June 3. This film represents a significant turning point for Hargitay, as she feels ready to embrace her mother’s legacy and share it with the world. The actress opened up about her motivation for creating *My Mom Jayne*, stating that the downtime during the COVID-19 pandemic allowed her to reflect on her mother’s impact. While going through old boxes, she discovered a treasure trove of fan letters that reminded her of the profound influence Jayne Mansfield had on her life and the lives of others. “In a way, I feel like I’ve been preparing my entire life to make it,” Hargitay explained, expressing her dedication to telling her mother’s story authentically. Jayne Mansfield was a prominent actress and sex symbol during the 1950s and early 1960s, known for her roles in films like *Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter?* and *The Girl Can’t Help It*. Tragically, she passed away in a car accident in New Orleans when Hargitay was just three years old, leaving a lasting impact on her daughter’s life. Hargitay’s reflections on her mother’s life and career reveal a deep emotional connection that continues to shape her identity. This isn’t the first time Hargitay has channeled her mother’s spirit in public appearances. Just last month, she attended the Cannes Film Festival, where she felt a “full circle” moment, revisiting the same event that held so much significance for her mother. “The photos of her, in Cannes in particular, were always so meaningful to me because of how free and happy and in love she was with my father,” Hargitay reminisced, indicating the emotional resonance of those images in her life. As she prepares for the premiere of *My Mom Jayne*, Hargitay expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to share her mother’s story on such a grand stage. “To be here, to bring her back here, and to tell her story was quite meaningful,” she said, highlighting the importance of honoring her mother’s legacy through her own artistic expression. *My Mom Jayne* is set to debut on HBO on June 27, offering fans a unique glimpse into the life of Jayne Mansfield through the eyes of her daughter. Hargitay’s journey to reconnect with her mother’s memory is not only a personal endeavor but also a tribute to the enduring impact of Jayne Mansfield’s life and career. In a world where celebrity legacies often fade with time, Mariska Hargitay’s commitment to honoring her mother’s memory serves as a reminder of the powerful bonds between parents and children. Through her fashion choices and her documentary, Hargitay invites fans to join her in celebrating the life of a woman who left an indelible mark on Hollywood and beyond. As she continues to navigate her own path as an actress and director, Hargitay’s homage to Jayne Mansfield reminds us all of the importance of family, legacy, and the stories that shape who we are.