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Knicks Star Jalen Brunson Cheers Mariska Hargitay Onstage
27 Jun
Summary
- Jalen Brunson surprised Mariska Hargitay during her Broadway performance.
- Their friendship began due to Brunson's long-time admiration for SVU.
- Hargitay supports Brunson, attending games and wearing custom Knicks gear.

New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson made a surprise appearance at Mariska Hargitay's Broadway performance of Every Brilliant Thing on June 26, 2026. Brunson attended the show at New York City's Hudson Theatre, watching Hargitay from center orchestra. The audience cheered enthusiastically as Hargitay incorporated a nod to Brunson's Knicks jersey into her performance, a moment that resonated more deeply with him present.
Their unlikely friendship began when Hargitay learned of Brunson's long-standing fandom for her iconic show, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. Brunson has often cited SVU as a childhood fixture and even a pre-game ritual. Hargitay, in turn, expresses admiration for Brunson's athletic discipline and performance under pressure, keeping his photo in her dressing room.
Hargitay has been a vocal supporter of the Knicks, frequently attending games and celebrating their victories. She was notably present during the team's championship win earlier this month. This mutual support extends to their personal lives, with both attending each other's public events. The Broadway production of Every Brilliant Thing, which opened on March 12, 2026, is known for its audience participation and has partnered with mental health nonprofit Project Healthy Minds.