The Real Reason Linda Hunt Believes That She Is So Likable

The stunning transformation of Linda Hunt has been witnessed on screen by television and film viewers across the globe for decades, and she's only grown more likable as her career has exploded. Hunt made acting history over the years in projects such as "The Year of Living Dangerously" (for which she won an Academy Award for best supporting actress), 1984's "Dune," and "Kindergarten Cop" (via IMDb). Of course, she's also been known over the last decade for her role as Hetty Lange on "NCIS: Los Angeles." (And fret not: the real reason Hunt missed time on "NCIS" likely isn't because she's leaving the show; she was recovering from an automobile accident.)

According to Britannica, Hunt hails from Morristown, New Jersey, but was raised in Connecticut, and it's perhaps her joint Jersey and Connecticut upbringing and attitude that make her so likable today. Both her acting and her real life personality are compelling, and she carries herself with a relatable poise. Because of her long tenure in the industry, Hunt has an inkling of an idea as to why people like her so much.

Linda Hunt's a clear fan favorite on "NCIS: Los Angeles," and Hunt may know why. After all, when you're successful in the entertainment industry, you can only rely on your own judgment a lot of the time. According to AmoMama, Hunt's take on her popularity is that everyone roots for underdogs.

"I think people have always liked in me the combination of being the underdog because I'm a tiny woman but I have enormous authority in myself," Hunt explained. Hunt has always had to be strong in her life as in her career, and as with anyone, authenticity and tenacity shine through, making people appreciate and enjoy their time with Hunt on their screens.

She's not wrong, either. People generally adore underdogs, but Hunt also can't discredit her shining personality, wit, and humor that make her so beloved. The same applies to her "NCIS: Los Angeles" character. "Hunt is able to effectively make Hetty a likable leader, even if some of her decisions can be seen as cruel or unfeeling. Hunt's Hetty never seems to see it like that, and is instead more focused on doing what it takes to complete a mission," Cinema Blend explains of her likability.