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Cynthia Hooper is an ESU desk clark who was in a relationship with Mark Greene. She is portrayed by Mariska Hargitay.
History[]
Cynthia was hired to the ER as a new desk clerk, and she soon developed a relationship with Mark Greene. Their relationship was entirely physical, and when Mark had to visit his parents again later in the season, Cynthia tags along, only to realize that Greene does not love her anymore. After the awkward breakup, Cynthia leaves, but Greene stays to better take care of his ailing mother and begin to mend his relationship with his father.
Behind the Scenes[]
Despite being on the show for a short period of time, Mariska Hargitay has stated that her time on ER was a confidence booster to her as an actor. Prior to auditioning for the part, Hargitay had previously been let go from Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: The Movie and had only done small roles since that point.
There were initial plans for the character to be on the show for a longer period of time, building a more elaborate romance between Cynthia and Mark Greene. However, while still working for the show, Hargitay auditioned for the role of Olivia Benson in the Law & Order spin off, Special Victims Unit (SVU), which she would land.
While there was consideration for her doing both shows, since both were on the same network, it would not be feasible as ER shot frequently on location in Chicago and SVU shot in New York City. This would lead to her being written off the show rather abruptly.