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Mariska Hargitay, the acclaimed actress known for her role as Olivia Benson in Law & Order: SVU, has bravely shared a harrowing detail from the tragic day her mother, iconic actress Jayne Mansfield, died in a car accident. In her new documentary, My Mom Jayne, which premiered at the Tribeca Festival on June 13th, Hargitay and her siblings recount the terrifying moment they were rescued from the wreckage, only to realize young Mariska had been accidentally left behind.

The documentary offers a deeply personal and emotional look into the lives of Jayne Mansfield's children, exploring their memories of their mother and the profound impact of her sudden death. The accident occurred on June 29, 1967, when Mansfield was driving with her children, Mariska (then three years old), Miklós Harvey (then four years old), and Tina Marie (then two years old), to a family gathering in Connecticut. The car collided with a jackknifed tractor-trailer, resulting in Mansfield's death and the serious injuries of her children.

The newly revealed detail – that young Mariska was initially overlooked during the chaotic rescue efforts – adds another layer of pain and complexity to an already devastating event. Her siblings, in recounting the experience, describe the frantic scene and the overwhelming focus on extracting them from the twisted metal. It wasn’t until they were safely away that they noticed Mariska was missing, prompting a desperate search within the wreckage.

My Mom Jayne isn't just about the tragedy; it's a celebration of Jayne Mansfield’s life and legacy, told through the eyes of her children. The documentary incorporates home movies, photographs, and interviews, painting a portrait of a vibrant and loving mother. It explores the challenges of growing up in the shadow of a famous parent and the enduring impact of loss.

“It’s a story about grief, resilience, and ultimately, love,” Hargitay explained in an interview about the film. “It’s about remembering my mom, not just as the actress the world knew, but as the mother who shaped our lives.” The film aims to provide a more complete understanding of Jayne Mansfield, beyond the headlines and the Hollywood glamour, revealing the woman behind the persona and the devoted mother she was to her children.

The premiere at the Tribeca Festival has generated significant buzz, with critics praising the documentary’s emotional honesty and Hargitay’s courageous vulnerability. My Mom Jayne promises to be a moving and unforgettable tribute to a Hollywood icon and a powerful exploration of family, loss, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.