“This is, for me, the most challenging part of me directing,” Hargitay shared.

“What I’ve learned now, one of the most important parts of directing is prep.

It’s when so much of the work is done.

Mariska Hargitay smiling

It’s been challenging that way because I’ve missed time.”

However, if anyone can skimp on the prep when directing “SVU,” it’s Hargitay.

“I understand the show on a very deep level,” she explained.

Mariska Hargitay poses with “SVU” creator Dick Wolf

“And I’m a quick study.

Who could forget theAdam Driver-Terry Gross incident (viaThe Daily Beast)?

And I was so nervous coming to work this day.”