Linda Hunt, known for her role as Henrietta "Hetty" Lange on NCIS: Los Angeles, did not entirely leave the series but significantly reduced her on-screen appearances. This decision was primarily driven by health and safety concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly given her age.
Reasons for Reduced Appearances
Producers of NCIS: Los Angeles took extensive measures to protect Linda Hunt, a vital member of the cast, during the pandemic.
Protecting a Veteran Actress
In 2020, at the age of 77, Linda Hunt's health and safety became a top priority for the show's production team. Rigorous protocols were implemented to minimize her exposure to the virus. This often meant limiting her time on set and her physical interactions with the cast and crew.
The show's Executive Producer R. Scott Gemmill emphasized these efforts, stating that they were doing everything to keep her safe. Her reduced presence was a direct result of these necessary precautions. She was "away a lot more" during this period specifically because of COVID-19 and the production's commitment to ensuring her well-being.
Character Storyline Adjustments
To accommodate Hunt's reduced on-set presence, her character, Hetty Lange, was often written to be on distant, secretive missions. This allowed the show to explain her absence from many episodes while keeping the beloved character an integral, albeit less visible, part of the NCIS: Los Angeles universe. These storyline adjustments ensured continuity and maintained Hetty's influence on the team, even when she wasn't physically present.
This strategic approach allowed NCIS: Los Angeles to balance storytelling needs with the paramount importance of cast safety during an unprecedented global health crisis.
