The 79-year-old Hollywood icon, who made history as the first actress to win an Oscar for playing a role opposite the sex, was photographed on a walk with her wife, Karen Kline, and an assistant. In the photos, Hunt appeared to be leaning on support, holding hands with Kline and her assistant, who helped her move along the sunny stroll. Kline, a psychotherapist by profession, looked casual in a striped shirt, a gray sweatshirt tied at the waist, and jeans.

Hunt and Kline have been in a long-term relationship since 1978 and officially married in 2008 after decades together. Their close bond was evident during the walk, though the photos quickly sparked controversy on social media.

Reactions online were sharply divided, with some users expressing warmth and admiration. Others focused on her appearance, leaving more critical or concerned comments.

Linda Hunt gained international fame after winning an Oscar in 1982 and later became particularly known for her role as Hetty Lange on NCIS: Los Angeles, which she joined in 2009. Her character became a fan favorite thanks to her witty dialogue, authority, and unique charisma. However, Hunt previously stated that she never planned to dedicate herself to long-term television work.

In a 2011 interview with The Daily Beast, she revealed that she wasn’t seeking active roles when the show entered her life at age 66. She described the opportunity as unexpected and meaningful, saying it was a welcome chance to continue working later in life.

Later, as her appearances on the show became less frequent, Hunt spoke openly about the emotional strain of acting. She acknowledged that while her profession gave her purpose and direction, it also brought significant stress and anxiety. At that stage in her life, she preferred a more relaxed pace, devoting more time to her personal life and relationships than to a hectic work schedule.

Looking back, Hunt also spoke about how her childhood influenced her path. Born with a form of dwarfism that affected her development, she often felt different from her peers and experienced isolation during her school years. A turning point came when her parents introduced her to theater by taking her to a Broadway production of Peter Pan. She later recalled that this experience helped her see the stage as a place where limitations disappear, allowing her to imagine herself in ever-new roles. This early inspiration ultimately influenced her decision to pursue an acting career and laid the foundation for her future success in Hollywood.