When CBS launched the first spin-off of its wildly successful series NCIS in 2009, fans eagerly tuned in to NCIS: Los Angeles, expecting the same winning formula that made the original a hit. Starring Chris O’Donnell and LL Cool J, and featuring Oscar-winning actor Linda Hunt as team manager Henrietta “Hetty” Lange, the show quickly became a favorite among viewers.
However, when Season 10 premiered, fans were disappointed not to see Linda Hunt alongside the other cast members. It was revealed that Hunt had been in a car accident and was unable to return immediately. Fortunately, the absence was not permanent, and fans can expect to see Hetty back on screen soon.
Henrietta “Hetty” Lange, played by Linda Hunt, is a central character in NCIS: Los Angeles, known for her mysterious and inscrutable nature. With a backstory that includes work as a Cold War operative, Hetty adds depth and intrigue to the show’s narrative.
Linda Hunt, a veteran character actress, has had a remarkable career in Hollywood. Despite encountering skepticism from some during her early years, she remained steadfast in pursuing her dreams. Even while attending the Goodman School of Drama in Chicago, where she initially studied directing due to doubts about her acting abilities, Hunt refused to be deterred. Moving to New York, she embraced her passion for acting and ultimately proved herself with her unforgettable performance in The Year of Living Dangerously, which earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1984.
Hunt’s success at the Oscars brought validation not only to her career but also to her parents, who had supported her dreams from the beginning. Reflecting on her journey, Hunt expressed gratitude for her father’s acceptance and belief in her abilities.