Acclaimed actress Mariska Hargitay delves into the tumultuous life of her late mother, Hollywood icon Jayne Mansfield, in a new documentary series.
Mariska Hargitay is set to star in a new documentary series that delves into the life of her late mother, actress Jayne Mansfield. The six-part series, titled ‘Jayne Mansfield: A Very Private Life,’ promises to offer an intimate look at the tumultuous life of the iconic Hollywood star.
Jayne Mansfield was an American actress, singer, and sex symbol of the 1950s.
Born on April 19, 1933, in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, she rose to fame with her stunning looks and charming personality.
Known for her iconic roles in films like 'The Girl Can't Help It' (1956) and 'Rock Around the Clock' (1956), Mansfield became one of Hollywood's most popular stars.
She was also a talented singer, releasing several successful singles.
Tragically, Mansfield died on June 29, 1967, in a car accident at the age of 34.
Early Years and Rise to Fame
Born on April 19, 1933, in Los Angeles, California, Jayne Mansfield was the second child of Hungarian-born parents. Her father, Vince Edwards, was a radio actor, while her mother, Mária Széky, was a Hungarian immigrant. The family moved frequently during Mariska’s early childhood due to her father’s work commitments.
Jayne began her acting career at the age of 16, landing small roles in films and television shows. Her breakthrough came in 1955 with the film ‘The Girl Can’t Help It,’ which led to a string of successful movies and appearances on popular TV shows. Mansfield’s charisma and voluptuous figure made her an overnight sensation, earning her the nickname ‘the blonde bombshell.’
Personal Life and Tragedy

Behind the glamour and stardom, Jayne Mansfield struggled with personal demons. She was known for her tumultuous relationships, including marriages to actor Paul Marshall and singer Mickey Hargitay (Mariska’s father). The couple had two sons together but divorced in 1957.
Mansfield’s life took a tragic turn when she died on June 29, 1967, at the age of 34. Her car crashed into a guardrail while driving on a Louisiana highway, resulting in her death. The incident remains shrouded in mystery, with various theories suggesting Mansfield was murdered or had an accident.
The Legacy Lives On
Despite the challenges and controversies that surrounded her life, Jayne Mansfield’s legacy endures. Her daughter Mariska Hargitay has been instrumental in keeping her mother’s memory alive through various projects, including a 2013 documentary series on HBO.
‘Jayne Mansfield: A Very Private Life‘ promises to offer an unflinching look at the life of this Hollywood icon. With exclusive interviews and rare footage, the series provides a nuanced understanding of Mansfield’s complexities and contradictions.
Jayne Mansfield was an American actress, singer, and dancer who rose to fame in the 1950s.
Born on April 19, 1933, she was known for her curvaceous figure and blonde hair.
Mansfield's film career began with small roles, but she gained recognition with films like 'The Girl Can't Help It' (1956) and 'Rock Around the Clock' (1956).
She also made headlines for her personal life, including multiple marriages and a highly publicized pregnancy at 20 years old.
A Jayne Mansfield documentary would delve into her tumultuous life, exploring both her professional achievements and personal struggles.