The Cannes Film Festival, held annually on the sun-drenched French Riviera, is synonymous with cinematic excellence, star-studded red carpets, and an intoxicating blend of art and glamour. In 2025, the 78th edition of the festival delivered all this and more, with one of the standout moments being the premiere of My Mom Jayne, a deeply personal documentary directed by Mariska Hargitay. The Law & Order: SVU star, known for her Emmy-winning role as Captain Olivia Benson, stepped into the director’s chair for the first time to explore the life and legacy of her mother, Hollywood icon Jayne Mansfield. The film, which premiered in the prestigious Cannes Classics section on May 17, 2025, captivated audiences with its raw emotion, intimate storytelling, and a powerful reclamation of Mansfield’s legacy. Coupled with Hargitay’s breathtaking red carpet appearances, the event was a masterclass in blending Old Hollywood glamour with modern-day vulnerability, cementing her as a multifaceted force in the industry.
A Star-Studded Premiere with Heart
The premiere of My Mom Jayne was nothing short of a spectacle, drawing a constellation of stars, filmmakers, and industry insiders to the Palais des Festivals. Hargitay, joined by her husband, actor Peter Hermann, and their three children—August, Amaya, and Andrew—made a rare and heartwarming family appearance on the red carpet. This moment was particularly poignant, as it underscored the personal stakes of the documentary, which delves into Hargitay’s journey to reconnect with the mother she lost at the tender age of three in a tragic 1967 car accident. The family’s presence added a layer of intimacy to the glitz, reminding attendees that this was not just a film but a deeply personal odyssey.
Hargitay’s red carpet looks were a tribute to her mother’s iconic style, channeling the Old Hollywood glamour that Jayne Mansfield epitomized in the 1950s and ’60s. For the premiere, she wore a stunning pink Carolina Herrera gown adorned with shimmering sequins and a structured satin neckline, paired with long black satin gloves and dangling silver earrings. Her hair, styled in classic waves by hairstylist Chris McMillan, cascaded down her back, evoking the timeless elegance of Mansfield herself, who was known for her love of pink and her bombshell persona. Fans and fashion critics alike praised the look, with one Instagram commenter noting, “You look like a dream right out of the ’60s, a style perfect for honoring your Mom’s story, and yours.”
The following day, at the photocall for My Mom Jayne, Hargitay continued to pay homage to her mother with a flowing black-and-white polka-dot ensemble from Carolina Herrera, featuring an off-the-shoulder top and palazzo pants. The playful yet sophisticated outfit echoed Mansfield’s flair for bold, feminine fashion. Hargitay also dazzled at the amfAR Gala in a form-fitting white gown with a jewel-encrusted halter neckline, pulling her hair into a sleek bun and accentuating her look with dramatic eye makeup and pink lips. These sartorial choices were more than just fashion statements; they were a deliberate nod to Mansfield’s legacy as a style icon whose image was as carefully crafted as her performances.
My Mom Jayne: A Journey Beyond the Screen
My Mom Jayne, set to premiere on HBO and Max on June 27, 2025, after a theatrical release on June 20, is far more than a standard Hollywood biography. The documentary follows Hargitay as she seeks to understand her mother, not as the platinum-blonde bombshell immortalized in films like Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter? and The Girl Can’t Help It, but as a complex woman, a mother of five, and an artist who yearned for more than the sex-symbol roles thrust upon her by the studio system. Through intimate interviews with her siblings—Mickey Hargitay Jr., Zoltan Hargitay, and Jayne Marie Mansfield—as well as Mansfield’s former publicist Rusty Strait and stepmother Ellen Hargitay, Mariska uncovers layers of her mother’s life that were overshadowed by her public persona.
The film is a treasure trove of never-before-seen photos, home movies, and memorabilia discovered in Mansfield’s untouched storage locker, including her 1956 Golden Globe, an award Mariska herself would later win. These artifacts paint a vivid picture of Mansfield’s life, from her early days as a Broadway star to her Hollywood career under contract with 20th Century Fox, where she was often positioned as a “second-tier Marilyn Monroe.” The documentary also highlights Mansfield’s intellectual side—she was a polyglot, classical pianist, and violinist who took her craft seriously, despite being typecast in comedic and risqué roles. Hargitay told Deadline, “Seeing all this artistry and seeing that she never was able to do the kinds of films or make the kind of art that she wanted to was so intriguing.”
Perhaps the most shocking revelation in the documentary is Hargitay’s disclosure about her biological father. For decades, she believed Mickey Hargitay, the former Mr. Universe who raised her, was her father. However, at age 25, she learned that her biological father was Nelson Sardelli, a Las Vegas entertainer. This bombshell, kept secret for over 30 years, adds a profound layer to the film, as Hargitay grapples with questions of identity, loyalty, and family. In an exclusive interview with Vanity Fair, she recounted confronting Sardelli, saying, “I don’t want anything, I don’t need anything from you… I have a dad,” emphasizing her loyalty to Mickey, who provided stability after Mansfield’s death. This revelation, coupled with Hargitay’s emotional journey, resonated deeply with audiences, earning a four-minute standing ovation at Cannes.
Cannes: A Stage for Glamour and Substance
Cannes has long been a platform where Hollywood’s past and present collide, and Hargitay’s presence in 2025 felt like a full-circle moment. Jayne Mansfield herself attended the festival in 1958, leaving behind iconic images of her waving from airplane steps and posing in glamorous gowns. Hargitay reflected on this connection, telling Today, “The fact that I get to take her back and to tell her story there, I just don’t have the words.” The festival’s chief, Thierry Frémaux, praised the documentary as “extraordinary,” noting that it’s “not about the past. It’s about who we are now, and it’s a way to bring the past to the present and even to the future.”
Hargitay’s red carpet appearances were a love letter to her mother’s era, but they also showcased her own evolution as a star. Her choice of designers like Carolina Herrera and Georges Chakra, paired with meticulous styling by Erin Walsh, bridged the gap between vintage glamour and contemporary sophistication. At the Die, My Love red carpet, she wore another Carolina Herrera gown, this time a sequined pink number with a black sash, further cementing her status as a fashion standout. Social media buzzed with praise, with posts on X calling her “absolutely stunning” and a “style icon” in her own right.
Beyond the glamour, My Mom Jayne struck a chord for its raw vulnerability. Hargitay, who has long been an advocate for survivors of sexual assault and domestic abuse through her Joyful Heart Foundation, brings the same empathy to her filmmaking. The documentary is described as an “emotional archeological dig,” unearthing not just Mansfield’s story but Hargitay’s own healing process. In a poignant scene, she visits the ruins of the Beverly Hills “Pink Palace” where she lived with her mother, father, and siblings, a mansion later owned by Engelbert Humperdinck and sold for $10 million. This moment, coupled with interviews and archival footage, creates a narrative that is both heartbreaking and uplifting, culminating in what Deadline called a “happy ending that just might have you in tears.”
The Legacy of Jayne Mansfield
Jayne Mansfield’s story is one of contradictions: a talented actress reduced to a caricature, a woman whose intelligence and artistry were often overshadowed by her bombshell image. Born Vera Jayne Palmer, she rose to fame in the 1950s with roles in Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter? and The Girl Can’t Help It, but struggled to break free from the studio system’s typecasting. Her later career saw her pivot to nightclub performances and low-budget films like Promises! Promises!, which capitalized on her sex-symbol status. Behind the scenes, Mansfield battled substance abuse and depression, yet remained a devoted mother to her five children across three marriages.
Hargitay’s documentary seeks to reclaim her mother’s narrative, presenting her as a multifaceted woman who was more than the sum of her public image. The film also addresses the tragic car accident that claimed Mansfield’s life at 34, an event that left Mariska and her brothers injured and catalyzed changes in road safety regulations, including the introduction of underride guards on trucks. This legacy of impact, both personal and societal, underscores the documentary’s significance.
Hargitay’s Directorial Debut: A New Chapter
For Hargitay, directing My Mom Jayne was a labor of love, but also a bold step into uncharted territory. While she has directed episodes of Law & Order: SVU, this marks her first feature-length project. Produced alongside Trish Adlesic and executive produced by Lauran Bromley, the documentary showcases Hargitay’s ability to weave personal storytelling with universal themes of loss, identity, and resilience. Her work has drawn comparisons to other actor-directors like Jodie Foster, who also premiered a film at Cannes 2025, highlighting a trend of performers taking control of their narratives behind the camera.
The film’s reception at Cannes was electric, with critics praising its emotional depth and Hargitay’s directorial finesse. Deadline called it “quite an extraordinary film,” while Variety noted its ability to bridge past and present. Posts on X echoed this sentiment, with users like @ViralVogue_ congratulating Hargitay on her “stunning debut” and @afterbuzztv comparing the film’s drama to an SVU episode. The documentary’s upcoming screening at the Tribeca Film Festival on June 13, 2025, promises to further its reach, bringing Mansfield’s story—and Hargitay’s—to a wider audience.
Hollywood Glamour Meets Modern Storytelling
Cannes 2025 was a celebration of Hollywood’s enduring allure, with Hargitay embodying the best of both worlds: the glamour of her mother’s era and the authenticity of today’s storytelling. Her red carpet looks, from sequined gowns to polka-dot ensembles, were a visual tribute to Mansfield’s legacy, while My Mom Jayne offered a raw, unflinching look at their shared history. The festival itself was a whirlwind of star power, with appearances from Rihanna, Lauren Sánchez, and Jodie Foster, but Hargitay’s presence stood out for its emotional resonance and personal stakes.
As My Mom Jayne prepares for its HBO premiere, it’s clear that Hargitay has not only honored her mother but redefined her own legacy. The documentary is a testament to the power of vulnerability, the complexity of family, and the enduring magic of Hollywood. In a festival defined by glitz and glamour, Hargitay’s story of love, loss, and reclamation shone brightest, proving that true stardom lies in authenticity.
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Mariska Hargitay
Harigtay wore a sparkly red dress to the Premiere of “My Mom Jayne” at the Cannes Film Festival. (Photo by stephane cardinale – Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images)
Mariska hargitay stunned when she walked the red carpet at the premiere of her documentary, “My Mom Jayne,” At the Cannes Film Festival, in an off-to-the-to-shys with a black top and hidden-hidden sequested Red Skirt.
The actress paired the look with Dangling Diamond Earrings and Black Opera Gloves with a ring on her finger. She styled her hair in big curls in a deep side part, reminiscent of big hollywood glamor, and went for a more natural makeup look.
She Posted Multiple Photos from the Evening on Instagram, Including Some of Her Posing on the Red Carpet and Holding Hands With Her Husband, Actor Peter Hermann, on his way to the Premiere.
“Absolutely stunning. You look like a dream right out of the 60’s, a style perfect for honoring your mother story, and yours,” One fan of in the comments section of One of the postsAnother added, “What a stunning night. Your mom would be so proud.”
The actress wore a black dress with gold and silver detailing to the premiere of “vie privée. “ (Photo by lyvans boolaky/getty images)
Mariska Hargitay Reveals Shocking Family Secret about Her Biological Father
The “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” Star also walked the red carpet at the premiere of “vie privée. “
While posing for photos, the star turned heads in a Figure-Hugging One-Shoulder Black Dress, with Silver and Gold BEEAD BEEAD Embroidery Along The Entrety of the Left Side, which culminated at the top white Three-dimensional design on her shoulder.
She paired the look with Dangly diamond earrings, as well as a less rings and bracelets, choosing to style her hair straight and in a middle part.
“Timeles !! Instagram post Featuring her look for the evening. Another added, “Wow wow wow you look amazing,” While Actor Neil Patrick Harris Chimed in with “Stunnnnnning!”
Harigtay Wore a Form-Fitting White Gown to the Amfar Gala. (Photo by daniele ventureli/getty images)
Hargitay Took No Breaks while at the Cannes Film Festival, AS SHE ALSO ALESO PHOTOS FOR PHOTOS on the Red Carpet at the AMFAR Gala Presented by Chopard. She stunned in a form-fitting white dress with a jeweel-encrusted halter neckline and a slight train behind her.
The actress accessorized with a silver clutch, a statement ring and bracelet, as well as diamond drop earrings. This time Around, The Actress Pulled Her Hair Back in A Bun and Opted for Dramaatic Eye Makeup and Pink Lips.
While at the Film Festival, Harigtay Debuted a Documentary She Self-Produced and Directed about Her Mom, Actress Jayne Mansfield, Called “My Mom Jayne.” Mansfield Died in a Car Accident when Hargitay was three years old. She was then raised by her father, Mickey hargitay, who, she recently revolved, is not her biological father. She found out in her 20s, her biological father is las vegas entertainer nelson sardelli.
“I grew up where I was supposed to, and i do know that everyone made the best choice for me,” She said. “I’m Mickey Hargitay’s Daughter. That is not a lie. This documentary is kind of a love letter to Him, beCause there’s no one that I was closer to on this planet.”
Scarlett johansson
Johansson Looked Ethereal in a Strapless Purple Gown on the Cannes Red Carpet. (Photo by jb lacroix/filmmagic)
Scarlett Johansson Looked Ethereal in a Flowing Strapless Purple Gown, Whoch Featured Rouching on the Bodice and Pieces of Fabric, which detached from her torso and flower, Flower, Flower, Creating ALIGTING ALORID Behind Her.
The actress paired the dress with a diamond bracelet and a pair of diamond earrings, choosing to style her hair in a Slick Back Bun. She went for a more dramaatic makeup look with bold lashes and red lips.
While at cannes, johansson premiered her directorial debut, “Eleanor the great,” which received a five-minute standing ovation.
Nicole Kidman
Kidman was this year’s kerning women in Motion Honoree. (Photo by Karwai Tang/Wireimage)
Nicole Kidman Posed For Photos in a Sleevelace Figure-Hugging Red Gown with a High Neckline and Lace Detailing throughout While on the Red Carpet at the KERING WOMEN In Motor Film Film Film Film Film Film
The actress kept her accessories to a minimum and wore her signature straight blonde hair in a middle part.
Not only did kidman look great on the carpet, she was also also While account the honor, Kidman Pledged to Continue Working With Female Directors, as Well as Female Writers, Cinematography and Female Crew, Saying, Saying, “You can say say you can say you can say you support it, but you can say do it. “
“We need to give women better roles, particularly as they get older. We are here, and we can prove to you that we will make money for you,” She said. “Invest in Us and Believe in Us, beCause Our Voice are so important. Just give us the chance, we are so ready. “
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Lauren Sánchez
Sánchez received the women empowerment award at the global gift gala. (Photo by Monica Schipper/Getty Images)
Lauren sánchez brought the glamour when she was walked the red carpet at the global gift gala during the cannes film festival in a strapless black dolce & gabbana dress with a flowing Skirt and SECIRIND Top.
While at the event, Sanchez was honored with the women’s empowerment award, which was presented to her actress, Eva Longoria. DURING HER ACCEPTANCE SPPEECH, Sanchez said the night wasn’s just about just about celebrating her, but also “about recognizing our collective ability to light the way for each in.”
“Empowerment isn’T about individual success,” She added. “It’s about our collective commission to choosing compassion over Judgment, Dignity over indiffereence, and hope over despair.”
Sánchez wore a mermaid-inspired look to the amfar gala. (Photo by Sameer Al-Doumy/AFP Via Getty Images)
Sánchez also made a splash when she walked the red carpet at the amfar gala in a strapless mermaid-inspired gown by Roberto Cavalli, with a corsETED BODICE, Swetheart Neckline and Blue Silver sequins all over.
She posted photos from the evening on her InstagramCalling the event “a night driven by purpose.”
“Disney I found the prince !!!!” One Fan Wrote in the Comments Section, While Another Added, “Wow! That colors look amazing on you.” A third fan chimed in with “out of this world !!!!”
Heidi klum
Klum wore a black dress with a sheer skirt to the amfar gala. (Photo by Monica Schipper/Getty Images for Amfar)
Heidi klum walked the red carpet at the amfar gala at the cannes film festival in a black yara shoemaker, which featured a shimmering corsated bodice.
The supermodel paired the look with a billing feather-trimmed shawl which she wrapped Around Her Elbs.
Klum let the dress do all the talking, keeping her makeup and accessories to a minimum, and styling her hair in a new shortr cut, parted down the middle.
Dakota Johnson
Johnson wore a pink strapless gucci dress to the Premiere of “Highest 2 Lowest.” (Photo by Doug Peters/Pa Images Via Getty Images)
Dakota Johnson Posed for Photos on the Red Carpet at the Premiere of “Highest 2 Lowest” at the cannes film festival, in a strapless pastel pink gucci dress with fringe.
The actress paired the look with just a pair of silver earrings in the shape of leaves, and wore her hair straight and parted in the middle.
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Eva Longoria
Longoria wore a shimmering pink strapless gown to the premiere of “The Phoenician Scheme.” (Photo by Miguel Medina/AFP Via Getty Images)
Eva Longoria Arrived at the Premiere of “The Phoenician Scheme” in a Shimmering Figure-Hugging Strapless Tamara Ralph Hute Couure Neckline.
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She Posted Photos of Her Look on Instagram, Captioning the post, “Pretty in Pink,” And Fans WERE Quick to Flood the comments section with positivity.
“Eva you look stunning !!” One Fan Wrote, Adding a Few Heart Emojis. Another Added, “Jaw Dropping Gorgeous Ma’am,” With a third written, “Eva My Queen. Stunning.”
Longoria wore a strapless black dress with jewels to the global gift gala. (Photo by Monica Schipper/Getty Images)
The “desperate housewives” star also walked the red carpet at the global gift gala, where she presented lauren sánchez with the women’s empowerment award.
Longoria Posed for Photos in a Strapless Black Elie Saab Gown, which was decided out in Silver Beads and Sequins from Top to Bottom. She Made Some modifications to the dress, changing the skirt from the Sheer version seen on the runway to a covered version, in order to abide by the event’s dress code, which’s dress codes, which is changed this year to ban nudity.
“Last Night was an unforgettable Evening at @globalgiftfoundation with @marirbravo, @laurapausini, @laurenwsanchez, and so many incredible changes – all united for a causes Touches lives across the globe, “She captioned an Instagram post Featuring photos from the evening.
Halle berry
Berry Stunned in a White Chanel Suit With Floral Detailing. (Photo by daniele ventureli/wireimage)
Halle berry lookd effortlessly flwless when she walked the red carpet at the premiere of “The Phoenician Scheme” in a white chanel suit with floral detailing throughout.
“Timeless with a twist,” Berry captured an instagram post featuring photos of her in the outfit. One fan commented, “can’t go wrong with chanel love the look,” while another added, “come through this outfit!”
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Berry wore a custom gucci dress to the kerning women event. (Photo by arnold jerocki/filmmagic)
Berry also attached the red carpet for the kerning women in motion at the festival, making a statement in a figure-hugging custom guci dress which featured a semi-shaer design and wasened in sparkles.
The actress paired the dress, which featured a halter neckline, with a less rings on each hand, a statement bracelet and subtle Dangle earrings, and wore her hair in a short bob.
“You are dazzling lady !!!!” One Fan Wrote in the Comments Section of Her Instagram Post Featuring Photos from the Event. Another Wrote, “Absolutely Marvelous, Darling!” While a third added, “is there a brand you do’t look if incredable in?”
When walking the red carpet at the chopard universe dinner in cannes, berry wore a figure-hugging dark red strapless dress with a corset body and a thigh-hight. (Photo by lionel hahn/getty images)
When walking the red carpet at the chopard universe dinner in cannes, berry wore a figure-hugging dark red strapless dress with a corset body and a thigh-hight.
“A little red on the riviera,” She captured an instagram post featuring photos from the evening.
“Forever a Queen. We love you!” One Fan Wrote in the Comments Section. Another Added, “Your Beauty Never Fades,” while a third also Wrote, “This oozes old hollywood glamour.”
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