After a flashy premiere and a slew of interviews, Mariska Hargitay’s emotional documentary, ‘My Mom Jayne’, is finally ready for home viewing!
This HBO Original dives deep into the life of Jayne Mansfield, Mariska’s mom who passed away long before she could truly get to know her. Hargitay, the star of ‘Law & Order: SVU’, not only directs but also reveals intimate insights through conversations with her siblings, biological father, and stepmother.
Jayne Mansfield tragically lost her life in a car crash back in 1967, and Mariska recounts that harrowing day alongside her brothers, Mickey Jr. and Zoltan. This powerful narrative is a key part of the documentary.
Using family interviews and memorabilia that had laid untouched for years, Mariska peels back the layers to show who her mother was beneath the glamorous persona the world saw in the 50s and 60s.
In a moving interview aired on TODAY on June 26, Mariska described her relationship with her mother as “very complicated.”
“I realized I was frustrated that I didn’t know the real person behind the façade,” she confessed.
As she uncovered stories and memories, she characterized her mother as “a kind and funny woman,” influenced greatly by her ever-optimistic spirit.
Mariska believes that Jayne would be proud of this film, as it allows viewers to see her as a multi-faceted individual rather than a one-dimensional star.
Music was a big love for Mansfield, and she showcased her talent on the violin and piano in various shows, which feature prominently in the documentary.
In her words, Jayne was “an artist with big dreams and a hunger for love,” and it brings her joy to see the similarities they share.
Where to Stream ‘My Mom Jayne’
The documentary is set to premiere on HBO on June 27 from 8 to 10 p.m. ET, and will also stream live on Max!
What You’ll Discover in Mariska’s Documentary
Besides showcasing her mother, the film lets Mariska open up about her life too. For the first time, she shares her personal history concerning her biological father, Nelson Sardelli.
Raised by Mickey Hargitay, Mansfield’s second husband, and his wife Ellen, Mariska stumbled upon the truth about her father by discovering a photo when she was 25 and met him after a five-year wait. Sardelli and his daughters also make an appearance in the documentary.
Talking with her siblings, Jayne Marie, Mickey Jr., and Zoltan, as well as half-brother Tony Cimber, enriches the narrative.
Mariska also sits down with Mansfield’s former press secretary, Raymond “Rusty” Strait, who penned a book revealing details about the family and Mariska’s biological dad after Jayne’s passing. Despite intense emotions, Mariska finds resolution in recounting this part of her family history, describing the experience as “painful but necessary.”
“I grew up knowing the right path was chosen for me, and while there were surprises, I’m still Mickey Hargitay’s daughter—that’s my truth too,” she asserted, reflecting on the film being a tribute to her father.
Feeling relief that her story was shared on her terms, Mariska expressed, “Somehow, even with all the chaos, I got to finally have my say.”
Originally featured on TODAY.com
