Entertainment • Musician

Nelson Sardelli

Nelson Sardelli is a Brazilian-born singer, actor, and comedian of Italian descent, best known for his Las Vegas entertainment career.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Nelson Sardelli is a Brazilian-born singer, actor, and comedian of Italian descent, best known for his Las Vegas entertainment career. He appeared in films including "Myra Breckinridge," "The Professionals," and "Fake-Out," and is the biological father of actress Mariska Hargitay.

Early life

Sardelli was born in São Paulo, Brazil, on September 20, 1934, to parents who had immigrated from Italy. Sources describe him as Brazilian‑born and of Italian descent.

Entertainment career

He built a career as a singer, comedian, and actor, becoming a familiar figure in Las Vegas entertainment. His work included performances in casinos, clubs, and other live venues.

Film roles

Sardelli appeared in several films across multiple decades, including "The Professionals" (1966), "Myra Breckinridge" (1970), "Fake-Out" (1982), and "Chilly Dogs" (2001). These credits are part of his broader career as an entertainer.

Personal life

Sardelli was previously married to Fledia Fay "Micki" Holland and is reported to be married to Lorraine Sardelli as of 2025. He is also the biological father of actress Mariska Hargitay.

Recognition

In 2008, Sardelli received the Golden Pillow Award from the International Entertainer School of Las Vegas. He has also been profiled as a long‑time Las Vegas performer.

Key facts

Nelson Sardelli was born in São Paulo, Brazil, on September 20, 1934.
He is a Brazilian‑born singer, actor, and comedian of Italian descent.
He became known as a Las Vegas entertainer and performed in club and casino venues.
He appeared in films including "The Professionals," "Myra Breckinridge," "Fake-Out," and "Chilly Dogs."
He is the biological father of actress Mariska Hargitay.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Nelson Sardelli?

He is a Brazilian-born singer, actor, and comedian known for his Las Vegas entertainment career.

When was Nelson Sardelli born?

He was born on September 20, 1934.

Where was Nelson Sardelli born?

He was born in São Paulo, Brazil.

What is Nelson Sardelli known for?

He is known for live entertainment in Las Vegas and for film appearances in "Myra Breckinridge," "The Professionals," and other titles.

Is Nelson Sardelli related to Mariska Hargitay?

Yes. He is identified in sources as Mariska Hargitay’s biological father.

Did Nelson Sardelli receive any awards?

Yes. He received the Golden Pillow Award from the International Entertainer School of Las Vegas in 2008.

References

Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nelson_Sardelli
Supports: Birth date and place, occupations, Italian descent, Las Vegas entertainer career, film appearances, Golden Pillow Award, biological father of Mariska Hargitay, spouse.
IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0764969/
Supports: Birth date and place, acting credits, and prior marriage to Fledia Fay "Micki" Holland.
O Globo — https://oglobo.globo.com/play/noticia/2025/05/20/quem-e-nelson-sardelli-pai-brasileiro-de-mariska-estrela-de-law-and-order-svu.ghtml
Supports: Brazilian origin, Italian ancestry, Las Vegas career, marriage to Lorraine, Golden Pillow Award, and identification as Mariska Hargitay's father.
TV Insider — https://www.tvinsider.com/people/nelson-sardelli/
Supports: Brazilian-born American singer, actor, comedian; Las Vegas lounge entertainment scene; film and television appearances.
Talk About Las Vegas — https://talkaboutlasvegas.com/talking-with-nelson-sardelli-july-20-2017/
Supports: Long-time Las Vegas entertainer, headlining casino performances, and film credits.