The extraordinary partnership between "Law & Order: SVU" stars Mariska Hargitay and Christopher Meloni began with an unforgettable first meeting during their joint audition over two decades ago.
In a recent interview with Today, Hargitay, 60, revealed how she instantly knew Meloni, 63, was perfect for the role of Elliot Stabler when he walked into the audition room. "I sort of sized him up, and I said, 'That's the guy,'" Hargitay recalled. "It was so obvious to me that that was the guy, and apparently, he felt the same way."
The chemistry between the two actors was so apparent that "Law & Order" franchise creator Dick Wolf immediately recognized their potential together. What started as an audition between strangers quickly transformed into what Hargitay describes as a "once-in-a-lifetime experience."
Their natural connection, combined with a shared love of comedy, proved to be a winning formula. The duo's on-screen partnership has contributed to making "SVU" one of television's longest-running primetime shows, now in its 25th season.
Speaking about their enduring bond, Hargitay emphasized that their chemistry remained strong even during challenging times. "Even at times when we were fighting or had a difference of opinion, or things getting tense, we still had it," she explained.
In January 2024, Hargitay shared with PEOPLE that Meloni has profoundly impacted her life. She was drawn to his "energy, confidence, power" and described him as "this dark horse, but funny, light." The actress expressed gratitude for how "those magical stars collided."
Today, their professional relationship has evolved into a deep friendship. "We were always very important people in each other's lives, and we knew it from minute one," Hargitay said, adding that they remain "very close, very close."