What Richard Belzer 'taught' Mariska Hargitay: ‘It was such a privilege to know him’

foxnews.com:

Mariska Hargitay is mourning the loss of her longtime friend and former co-star Richard Belzer. During a recent appearance on "The Today Show," the "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" star spoke about her relationship with Belzer and what she'll miss most about him. "What a heart and soul," Hargitay explained. "He was family and taught me so much about taking risks and creativity and trust, and he brought so much joy to the set.

And, boy, did this man love children. He was this acerbic, quick-witted, brilliant mind, and yet he would melt in the sight of a child. "He was just such a beautiful and complex [person], and it was such a privilege to know him." Belzer's family announced Sunday the beloved actor and comedian died peacefully in his sleep at his home in Beaulieu-sur-Mer, France.

Along with the announcement, Belzer's friend Bill Scheft revealed the actor's last words were "'F--- you, motherf-----.'"  Hargitay initially paid tribute to her friend Sunday, shortly after news of his death broke, taking to Instagram to share a heartfelt message about Belzer and the friendship they had.

View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Mariska Hargitay (@therealmariskahargitay) "Goodbye my dear, dear friend.