NCIS Star Linda Hunt Celebrates 78th Birthday: Overcame Teasing, Found Love with Wife in 'Jewel Box House'

Happy Birthday, Linda Hunt! On April 3rd, 2023, a Facebook post celebrated the beloved actress's birthday, with well wishes pouring in from fans and even a glimpse of her wife, Karen Klein, in the comments.

Fans showered Linda, known for her role as Henrietta "Hetty" Lange on NCIS, with love and appreciation for her talent. One fan declared themselves a lifelong admirer of her acting, while another wished her a safe and joyful birthday. Her beauty and grace were acknowledged, and some expressed hope for her return to NCIS. Others simply admired her incredible spirit and the entertainment she's brought them. One playful birthday wish even playfully called the ever-youthful Linda a "young lady"!

From a Difficult Beginning to Shining Star

Born in New Jersey in 1945, Linda's early life wasn't easy. Delays in her motor skill development at just six months old led doctors to predict possible institutionalization. However, her determined parents, Elsie and Raymond, refused to give up. They used theatre and books to stimulate Linda's development, resulting in nearly average motor skills by the time she started school. Despite this progress, academic struggles persisted.

Elsie and Raymond, dedicated to giving their daughter every opportunity, hired an acting coach and enrolled her in a prestigious boarding school. Linda has spoken out about their immense support, crediting them for always encouraging her.

Finding Strength in Difference

Linda's short stature and learning difficulties made her childhood a gauntlet. Feeling "totally alienated" from a young age, she endured a teacher who belittled her intelligence and classmates who bullied. These experiences, however, instilled a deep resilience. "I was a very determined kid," Linda once said. "This happens to kids who are different in any way."

A pivotal moment came when Linda saw a Broadway production of Peter Pan. The stage became a place where she could finally feel tall. Inspired, she set her sights on a life in performance.

Developing a Powerful Voice

To compensate for her small stature, Linda honed a powerful, authoritative voice. By her teens, she realized its uniqueness – a quality that made her feel "big". This unique characteristic, along with her acting talent, would eventually propel her onto the stage and screen.

Teenage Struggles and Finding Confidence

Teenage years were marred by the cruelty of bullying. To be taken seriously, Linda learned to project strength and embrace her individuality. She emphasized her uniqueness, recognizing herself as "one in a million".

High school graduation brought a diagnosis: hypopituitary dwarfism, a condition that limits growth hormone production. Despite these hurdles, Linda defied the odds, building a remarkable career and finding love with her wife, Karen Klein.