Mariska Hargitay’s TV Son Wishes Her a Happy Birthday, Calling Her His ‘Second Mama’

Actress Mariska Hargitay has spent over 20 years as the character Olivia Benson on "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit." She recently turned 56.

Born into Hollywood royalty, Mariska has carved a successful career for herself as a performer. The actress is the oldest daughter of actress Jayne Mansfield.

Her mother passed away in a car crash when Hargitay, who was in the car also, was only 3. Mariska turned 56 years old on January 23.

The "Law & Order: SVU" took a moment to mark her special day with an Instagram post. She took to the social media site to write:

"Birthdays are markers. I’m feeling too incredibly grateful for all the love and birthday wishes. [numerous hashtags and emojis] thank you dear ones-family, friends and fans."

The post was flooded with birthday messages and support. Many fans and friends took the time to celebrate her birthday with her.

Amongst those who wished her Happy Birthday was her co-star and on-screen son Ryan Buggle. He took to Twitter to post a sweet message to the star.

The sweet message and adorable pictures that he posted with it sparked even more responses from fans of the show. One excited fan commented:

"Aw guys, you are so adorable,it is so precious. Happiest birthday my love @Mariska #HappyBirthdayMariska"

The tweet from Ryan gained more than four hundred retweets. It has also gained more than five thousand likes.

Ryan was not the only famous person to pen a message for the actress. Viola Davis, Ali Wentworth, broadway star Orfeh and "One Tree Hill" alum Sophia Bush also posted sweet messages for her.

Mariska has been married to Peter Hermann for fifteen years. The couple also shares three children; August Miklos Friedrich, Amaya Josephine (who they adopted) and Andrew Nicholas ( who was also adopted).