Nelson Sardelli, born Sept 20, 1934, is a Brazilian-American singer, comedian, and Las Vegas showman.
Although he performed worldwide, little was known about his private life until his daughter, Mariska Hargitay, revealed in May 2025 that Sardelli is her biological father.
Beyond Mariska, Sardelli had a family with his late wife, Fledia Fay Micki Holland Sardelli. Here’s the complete story of his daughters.
1. Giovanna Sardelli
Giovanna Sardelli, likely born in the mid-to-late 1960s, following her parents’ 1965 marriage, has built a distinguished career in the world of theater.
An award-winning director and actor, she earned her BFA from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in 1987, and later completed her MFA at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, where she eventually joined the faculty.
Recognized for her artistic excellence, Giovanna was named UNLV’s College of Fine Arts Alumna of the Year in 2019.
She has directed productions nationwide, including those for Silicon Valley’s TheatreWorks, and has earned major accolades, such as the Joe A. Callaway Award in 2008 and the Ovation Award in 2016.
Today, she continues to develop and direct innovative plays, shaping the future of American theatre through her work in regional stages across the country.
2. Pietra Sardelli
Pietra Sardelli, likely born in the late 1960s, has maintained a largely private life, with limited public information available about her career or personal pursuits.
However, she is frequently mentioned in family tributes and was noted alongside her sister, Giovanna, in their mother, Fledia’s, obituary, suggesting a close-knit family bond.
Though not in the public eye, Pietra has made appearances at family-centered events such as UNLV Hall of Fame reunions and documentaries honoring the Sardelli legacy.
Her presence at these occasions highlights her supportive role within both her family and the broader artistic community, despite her preference to remain behind the scenes.
3. Venetia Sardelli
Venetia Sardelli, presumably born in the early 1960s, was the eldest child of Fledia and Nelson Sardelli. Unlike some of her siblings, Venetia led a private life and remained out of the public spotlight.
She passed away in 2001, but her memory lives on through her family. Her name was included in Fledia’s 2012 obituary, a quiet yet meaningful acknowledgment of her lasting place in the Sardelli family’s story.
4. Mariska Hargitay
Mariska Hargitay was born on January 23, 1964, in Santa Monica, California, to the legendary actress and sex symbol Jayne Mansfield.
She has become an Emmy-winning actress, best known for her long-running role as Detective Olivia Benson on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, a series she has starred in since 1999.
Beyond acting, Mariska founded the Joyful Heart Foundation, which advocates for survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse.
Among Nelson Sardelli’s children, Mariska stands out as the only one to achieve public fame. Her portrayal of Olivia Benson has not only earned her an Emmy and Golden Globe nominations but has also made her a global icon.
Off-screen, she is deeply committed to activism; her foundation has invested over $20 million in programs and support services for survivors, highlighting her impact both in Hollywood and humanitarian work.
Family Ties & Public Recognition
Nelson Sardelli married Fledia Fay Holland in 1965, and together they welcomed three daughters: Venetia, Giovanna, and Pietra. The family maintained a relatively private life, with Fledia and Nelson remaining married for 47 years until her passing in 2012.
Tragedy struck earlier in 2001 when their eldest daughter, Venetia, passed away an event quietly acknowledged in family tributes and obituaries.
In a surprising and emotional turn of events, Mariska Hargitay revealed in May 2025 that Nelson Sardelli is her biological father. The announcement came through the HBO documentary My Mom Jayne, reshaping public understanding of her family history and connecting her to Sardelli’s lineage in a deeply personal way.
Final Thoughts
Nelson Sardelli fathered a varied and talented family, reflecting both public and private lives. Giovanna’s creative zenith and Pietra’s protective presence hint at artistic roots, while Venetia’s memory and Fledia’s community legacy enrich their story.
Minnette’s addition links Sardelli’s narrative to Hollywood’s golden era with Jayne Mansfield, ignited by Mariska’s emotional revelation in May 2025. Together, these five daughters weave a compelling tapestry of love, loss, and legacy tied to their father’s charismatic life.