Mariska Hargitay, the star of the hit crime drama Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, received a meaningful new honor on Nov. 9 at the Critics Choice Documentary Awards.

During the special event, Hargitay was given the award for Best First Documentary Feature for her documentary about her late mother, actress Jayne Mansfield, called My Mom Jayne. She gave an emotional acceptance speech on stage, saying, “I’m just so grateful because I never knew how this film would be received, and it’s been extraordinary.”

“I knew that I wanted my mother’s story to be told, but it took me a long time to understand that I was the one who was called to tell it, and I would be charged with directing it and how it would be told,” she went on, her hands visibly shaking and her voice filled with emotion as she spoke.

Hargitay finished her speech with an important message for others like her out there, saying, “I say to all of us who are called to tell our stories, by all means, let’s tell them.”

Hargitay Reflected on the Big Honor the Next Day

The next day, Hargitay shared the news of the award with fans on social media from her account, reflecting on the honor as she said, “I’m still so deeply fulfilled from last night. A true honor to be in that room of artists, storytellers and change-makers…I’m so grateful that I got to share my mother’s story—and mine.”

She thanked fans of the film again, writing, “Deepest thanks to audiences and critics for how you’ve received this film. My heart is so full.”

Fans and Friends Rushed to Congratulate Hargitay

In the comments, friends, colleagues, and fans all had kind words and congratulations for Hargitay after learning of the award for her film My Mom Jayne, with Jessica Capshaw writing, “Love this and love you!!💖.”

Jessica Alba wrote, “It’s incredible -congrats 😍❤️❤️,” while Danny Pino added, “❤️❤️❤️.” Supermodel Christy Turlington commented, “👏👏👏.”

Fans joined in to celebrate with replies like, “Congratulations! This is definitely deserved! This is hands down, the best documentary I’ve ever watched,” and “Could not be happier for you. This is so, SO deserved 🩷.”

“Congratulations Mariska! I cried with emotion watching your beautiful speech. I’m so proud of you,” said another supportive fan.