Where Is Miss Schlowski Now? 7 Shocking Facts About Linda Hunt, The Principal In Kindergarten Cop

Few cinematic moments are as universally beloved and quoted as the interaction between Detective John Kimble and the diminutive, yet fiercely authoritative, Principal Miss Schlowski. The 1990 classic Kindergarten Cop, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, owes much of its enduring charm to the supporting cast, particularly the Oscar-winning actress who embodied the school's headmistress. As of December 2025, the life and career of Linda Hunt—the woman behind the iconic role—continues to be a fascinating study in longevity, with recent public sightings and a long-running television career keeping her in the spotlight decades after she first scolded a tough-as-nails cop.

The character of Miss Schlowski, with her stern demeanor, sharp wit, and surprising vulnerability, served as the perfect foil to Schwarzenegger's fish-out-of-water detective. While many fans know her primarily from this film, Linda Hunt’s career is one of the most distinguished in Hollywood, spanning theater, film, and a wildly successful television run. This deep dive uncovers the essential biography, the most famous movie quotes, and the current status of the legendary actress.

Linda Hunt: Complete Biography and Current Status (December 2025)

Linda Hunt, known in private life as Lydia Susanna Hunt, has had a groundbreaking career defined by powerful, magnetic performances that defy conventional Hollywood typecasting. Her work has earned her some of the industry's highest honors, making her one of the most respected figures in modern acting.

• The Chilling True Story 5 Key Facts About Richard Evonitz The Serial Killer Who Kidnapped Kara Robinson Chamberlain Xpjje

• Full Name: Lydia Susanna Hunt
• Date of Birth: April 2, 1945
• Age (as of Dec 2025): 80 years old
• Place of Birth: Morristown, New Jersey, U.S.
• Spouse: Karen Kline (married 2008, together since 1987)
• Oscar Win: Best Supporting Actress for *The Year of Living Dangerously* (1983)
• Groundbreaking Achievement: She is the first, and to date, only person to win an Academy Award for playing a character of the opposite sex (male photographer Billy Kwan).
• Iconic Film Roles: Mrs. Oxheart in *Popeye* (1980), Miss Schlowski in *Kindergarten Cop* (1990), Grandmother Willow (voice) in *Pocahontas* (1995).
• Longest Running Role: Henrietta "Hetty" Lange in the hit CBS series NCIS: Los Angeles (2009–2023).
• Current Status: Semi-retired from her role in NCIS: Los Angeles, but still making rare public appearances. She was recently spotted in a rare outing in Los Angeles in 2025.

The Enduring Legacy of Miss Schlowski: Trivia and Famous Quotes

Miss Schlowski is more than just a strict principal; she is the moral compass of the Astoria Elementary School and the unlikely mentor to Detective John Kimble. Her character is a masterclass in using physical presence and vocal authority to command a scene, especially when standing opposite the 6-foot-2, muscle-bound Arnold Schwarzenegger. This contrast is a key reason the role remains so memorable decades later.

1. The Most Quoted Line Was an Unscripted Gem

The most famous line delivered by Miss Schlowski—and one of the most quoted lines in the entire film—is her final, surprising moment of camaraderie with Kimble. After he has saved the day and decided to stay on as a teacher, she pulls him aside for one last, private conversation. She asks him about his final confrontation with the villain, Cullen Crisp, Sr.:

• "I want you to answer one more question, and don't lie. What did it feel like to hit that son of a b*tch?"

Kimble’s reply, "It felt great," solidifies the mutual respect between the two characters. This moment perfectly encapsulates the film's blend of action and heart, showing that even the most reserved authority figure can appreciate a moment of vigilante justice.

• The Unseen Story Jessica Simpsons Battle For Privacy And Body Image In A Digital Age Mlvqa

2. The Physical Contrast Was Deliberate and Ironic

Linda Hunt stands at 4 feet, 9 inches tall, a striking contrast to Arnold Schwarzenegger's stature. This physical irony was central to the film’s comedy. The sight of the tiny headmistress dressing down the massive, undercover cop is a running gag that never loses its impact. The contrast highlights Miss Schlowski’s enormous authority and inner strength, proving that power comes from character, not size.

3. Miss Schlowski is the Voice of Parental Concern

While she is strict, Miss Schlowski’s primary motivation is the safety and well-being of her students. She is the first to voice suspicion about Kimble's lack of credentials and his unconventional teaching methods. She warns him directly that if she feels the children are in danger, she will personally intervene. This unwavering commitment makes her a genuinely heroic figure in the story, not just a comedic obstacle.

From Astoria Elementary to NCIS: Linda Hunt's Unstoppable Career

For a generation of fans, Linda Hunt is Miss Schlowski. However, the actress has spent the last decade and a half becoming even more famous to a new audience as Henrietta "Hetty" Lange, the operations manager for the Office of Special Projects in the hit TV series NCIS: Los Angeles. This role is a testament to her unique appeal and enduring star power.

• The One Where They Tanked Jokes 15 Shocking New Secrets From The Friends Tv Show Behind The Scenes G9zdh

4. The Phenomenon of Hetty Lange

Hunt joined the cast of NCIS: Los Angeles in 2009 and quickly became a fan favorite. Hetty Lange is essentially a militarized, highly secretive version of Miss Schlowski—a small woman with seemingly unlimited power, connections, and a mysterious past. Her performance earned her two Teen Choice Awards for Choice TV Actress: Action, a rare achievement for an actress in her 60s and 70s.

Although the series concluded in 2023, Hunt's character was a central pillar for 14 seasons. Due to her age and a brief recovery from a car accident in 2018, her appearances became less frequent in later seasons, but her presence was always felt. Her ability to transition from the big screen of *Kindergarten Cop* to a long-running, demanding television role is a remarkable feat of career longevity.

5. Linda Hunt’s Rare Public Sightings in 2025

In recent years, the now 80-year-old actress has maintained a low profile, often leading fans to wonder about her well-being. However, in 2025, she was spotted in a rare public outing in Los Angeles with her longtime wife, psychotherapist Karen Kline. The couple has been together for decades, marrying in 2008 after 21 years of dating. These rare glimpses of her personal life serve as a reassuring sign to her devoted fanbase that the iconic star is doing well in her semi-retirement.

Where Are the Other Key Women of Kindergarten Cop Now?

Kindergarten Cop featured several other powerful female performances. The film's topical authority is enhanced by looking at the careers of the other key women who helped make the movie a classic.

6. Pamela Reed (Detective Phoebe O'Hara)

Pamela Reed played Detective Phoebe O'Hara, Kimble's tough, street-smart partner who also goes undercover as a teacher. Reed has remained an active and respected working actress. In recent years, she has been seen in significant and acclaimed projects, including the 2022 film *The Fallout* and, notably, a role in the critically acclaimed HBO series *The Last of Us*. She continues to balance film, television, and local theater work, proving her versatility long after her iconic role as Kimble's partner.

7. Carroll Baker (Eleanor Crisp)

Carroll Baker played Eleanor Crisp, the ruthless and equally villainous mother of Cullen Crisp, Sr. Baker is an Oscar-nominated actress known for classic films like *Baby Doll* (1956). Her role in *Kindergarten Cop* was one of her later major film appearances. Baker is now a retired actress and has transitioned into a new career as a prominent author, living in New York. Her shift from a Hollywood sex symbol and dramatic actress to a published writer is a unique and compelling post-acting career path.

From the stern, yet kind, Principal Miss Schlowski to the powerful Hetty Lange, Linda Hunt has built a career on defying expectations. Her role in *Kindergarten Cop* remains a beloved highlight, a perfect example of a supporting character stealing every scene she’s in. Her continued presence in the entertainment world, even in her 80s, ensures that her legacy as one of Hollywood's most unique and talented performers is secure.