When it comes to iconic Hollywood lookalikes, one pairing continues to spark playful conspiracy theories and side-by-side comparisons that are almost too perfect: Linda Hunt and Pixar’s pint-sized fashion genius, Edna Mode.
Sure, Pixar has long maintained that Edna was inspired by legendary costume designer Edith Head. But we’re not buying that she wasn’t at least partially modeled after the unforgettable Linda Hunt. From her unmistakable bowl cut and oversized glasses to her no-nonsense attitude, Edna Mode could easily be Hetty Lange’s animated alter ego.
Hunt, who stands at 4’9”, brings her own superhero flair to the small screen as Operations Manager Hetty Lange on NCIS: Los Angeles. Much like Edna, Hetty is brilliant, mysterious, and utterly unflappable. Plus, fans of 1994’s Prêt-à-Porter will remember Hunt playing fashion editor Regina Krumm—complete with a sharp bob, power glasses, and dry wit that screamed “Edna prototype.”
Coincidence? Please. In Hollywood, there’s no such thing.
Despite the animated icon being confined to The Incredibles universe, the spirit of Edna lives on in Hunt’s real-world charisma. While one lives in a CGI fashion fortress and the other heads up covert ops for the Navy, their energy is uncannily aligned.
So whether you’re watching NCIS: LA reruns or binging The Incredibles for the hundredth time, just know that somewhere in the universe, Linda Hunt and Edna Mode are probably sipping espresso, swapping style tips, and saying “No capes!” in perfect unison.
