“Happy Birthday Hetty” feels like a celebration decades in the making. At 80, Linda Hunt represents a rare kind of Hollywood success—one built on craft, not noise. Her portrayal of Hetty Lange on NCIS: Los Angeles crowned a career that began on the stage and blossomed across film and television.
Born with hypopituitary dwarfism, Hunt has spoken openly about how acting allowed her to become “anything.” That philosophy carried her from Broadway inspiration to Oscar winner, and eventually to a TV role that redefined what leadership looks like.
Even after a serious car accident limited her appearances, Hunt’s influence on the series never faded. Hetty remained its moral compass, just as Hunt remains a guiding figure for actors who value depth over fame.
At 80, Linda Hunt’s legacy isn’t ending—it’s simply resting, fully earned and deeply admired.
