8 Examples of Newly Out Maria Bello and Mariska Hargitay Being the Most Adorable Friends

Critically acclaimed actress Maria Bello just came out as in a relationship with another woman in a column in the New York Times entitled “Coming Out as a Modern Family.” The star of ER, the criminally short-lived Prime Suspect, Coyote Ugly, The Cooler, and A History of Violence wrote candidly about telling her 12-year-old son Jackson that she was in love with and in a relationship with her best friend Clare.  

Naturally, we were really excited for Maria that she felt she could come out so openly. And considering the way that our pop-culture drenched little brains work, also naturally, we began to think that since Maria and Mariska Hargitay are such close pals -- they became friends in the mid-90s while Mariska had a guest arc on ER – wouldn’t it just be the best if Mariska were Maria’s maid of honor or flower girl or something if Maria and Clare ever decide to tie the knot? We know, we’re rushing things a tad as Maria did not seem to have marriage on the mind in her column, but still… It got us thinking about the myriad of photos of Maria and Mariska being the most adorable friends throughout the years… Naturally, we made a slide show… 

Maria and Mariska hug it out at the Joyful Heart Foundation's JoyROCKS this past September. 

Maria was on hand to help present Mariska with her star on the Walk of Fame last month -- with Kate Flannery, Blair Underwood, Debra Messing and Danny Pino. 

Being philanthropic back in 2002 at Amfar's Season of Hope Gala. 

On the red carpet for the premiere of Secret Window in 2004. 

Having a laugh at JoyROCKS! 

Back in 2004 at the Writers Guild Awards! 

We couldn't resist another one with Debra -- this time at the 2010 Joyful Heart Foundation Gala. 

Another oldie and goodie at New York Fashion Week in 2002.