Is Linda Hunt Sick? What Disease Does Linda Hunt Have? Why Did Linda Hunt Leave NCIS?
by Mathelene
Updated May 22, 2023
Who is Linda Hunt?
Linda Hunt is an American actress known for her versatile performances in film, television, and theater. She was born on April 2, 1945, in Morristown, New Jersey, United States. Hunt's career began in the late 1970s, and she gained widespread recognition for her role as Billy Kwan in the 1982 film "The Year of Living Dangerously."
Her portrayal of a male Chinese-Australian photographer earned her critical acclaim and made her the first person to win an Academy Award for playing a character of the opposite sex. This breakthrough role established Hunt as a talented and versatile actress. Throughout her career, Hunt has appeared in numerous films, including "Silverado" (1985), "Kindergarten Cop" (1990), "Pocahontas" (1995), "Dragonfly" (2002), and "Yours, Mine & Ours" (2005).
She has also lent her voice to animated films and series, such as "Ratatouille" (2007) and "Cars" (2006-2017). On television, Linda Hunt is widely recognized for her role as Hetty Lange in the long-running CBS series "NCIS: Los Angeles," which she has been a part of since 2009. Her portrayal of the tough and enigmatic operations manager has earned her a dedicated fan following. In addition to her screenwork, Linda Hunt has an extensive background in theater.
She has performed in numerous stage productions, including works by Shakespeare and other renowned playwrights. Linda Hunt's contributions to the entertainment industry have garnered her several accolades, including the Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award, and multiple Emmy nominations.
Outside of her acting career, Hunt is known for her philanthropic work and has been involved in various charitable endeavors. She has supported causes related to children's education and healthcare. Linda Hunt's unique talent, memorable performances, and significant achievements have solidified her status as a respected and beloved actress in the entertainment industry.
Is Linda Hunt Sick?
Linda Hunt was diagnosed with a condition called hypopituitary dwarfism during her teenage years. Hypopituitary dwarfism is a medical condition characterized by an underactive pituitary gland, which results in insufficient production of growth hormone. This condition can lead to stunted growth and shorter stature compared to individuals without the condition.
Hunt's diagnosis of Hypopituitary dwarfism during her adolescence likely presented unique challenges for her, both physically and emotionally. It may have necessitated medical interventions such as hormone replacement therapy to manage the hormonal imbalances caused by the underactive pituitary gland. These treatments aim to help stimulate growth and development. Despite the challenges posed by her condition.
Hunt has successfully pursued a career in the entertainment industry, demonstrating her resilience and determination. Her talent, versatility, and dedication have allowed her to excel as an actress, earning her accolades and recognition for her performances in film, television, and theater.
What Disease does Linda Hunt have?
During her teenage years, Linda Hunt received a diagnosis of hypopituitary dwarfism, a condition that explained the irregularity in her growth. Hypopituitary dwarfism is characterized by an underactive pituitary gland, resulting in reduced production of growth hormone. This deficiency can lead to slower growth and shorter stature compared to individuals without the condition.
Linda Hunt's diagnosis of hypopituitary dwarfism as a teenager likely presented her with unique challenges. She may have required medical interventions, such as hormone replacement therapy, to address the hormonal imbalances caused by the underactive pituitary gland.
These treatments aim to stimulate growth and development in individuals affected by this condition. Living with hypopituitary dwarfism may have necessitated ongoing medical management and monitoring throughout Hunt's life, with regular assessments of growth and hormone levels. Despite these challenges, Hunt has successfully pursued a career in the entertainment industry, showcasing her talent and versatility as an actress.
Why Did Linda Hunt leave NCIS?
Linda Hunt's absence from the series "NCIS: Los Angeles" can be attributed to various factors. One significant break occurred after she was involved in a car accident in July 2018. Although her injuries were not severe, her character, Hetty, was absent for the entirety of the 10th season and most of the 11th. In a statement, Hunt expressed her gratitude for the support from fans following the accident and explained that she needed more time to recover than initially anticipated.
She looked forward to returning later in the season. Another period of absence was during the COVID-19 pandemic when filming resumed in the summer of 2020. Due to Hunt's age (77 at the time), special precautions were taken to ensure her safety. The show's executive producer, R. Scott Gemmill, mentioned that Hunt was away more frequently during this season to protect her health. However, after receiving both vaccines, Hunt eagerly returned for the finale episode, thrilled to be back on set.
In response to COVID-19 precautions, Hunt appeared only a few times in season 12. The writers incorporated a storyline where Hetty needed to be in Syria for much of the season, much to the disappointment of fans. The season 12 finale indicated that Hetty's time might be over as Admiral Kilbride ordered her office to be cleared. However, in a surprising twist, Hetty returned to bid farewell and wish good luck to another character.
The ending hinted at the possibility of Hetty's return in season 13, as she supervised Kilbride while her office was restored. Fans expressed a desire to see more of Hetty in season 13, and the show's executive producer acknowledged the calls for her return.
He assured fans that Hetty's story would continue and that there would be some revelations in the following season. However, in season 13, Hunt appeared in only one episode, the premiere titled "Subject 17," which aired in October 2021.
How Old is Linda Hunt?
Linda Hunt, originally named Lydia Susanna Hunt, was born on April 2, 1945, in Morristown, New Jersey, United States. She is currently 78 years old. Her father, Raymond Davy Hunt (1902–1985), held the position of vice president at Harper Fuel Oil, while her mother, Elsie Doying Hunt (1903–c. 1994), worked as a piano teacher at the Westport School of Music in Westport, Connecticut.
Elsie also sang with the Saugatuck Congregational Church Choir. Hunt grew up in Westport alongside her older sister, Marcia (born 1940). For her education, Hunt attended the Interlochen Arts Academy and later graduated from the Goodman School of Drama at the Art Institute of Chicago (now part of DePaul University). These educational experiences helped shape her skills and passion for acting.
Is Linda Hunt Sick - FAQs
Linda Hunt is an American actress known for her versatile performances in film, television, and theater.
No, Linda Hunt is not currently sick. However, she has faced health challenges in the past.
Linda Hunt has hypopituitary dwarfism, which is characterized by an underactive pituitary gland and results in reduced production of growth hormone.
Linda Hunt's absences from the series "NCIS: Los Angeles" were due to various reasons. She took time off after a car accident in 2018, during which she sustained non-serious injuries. Additionally, she was absent during the COVID-19 pandemic as she fell into a high-risk category due to her age. Hunt returned for the season finales and made limited appearances in other episodes.
Linda Hunt was born on April 2, 1945, and is currently 78 years old.