After her breakthrough role in “Crocodile Dundee,” Linda Kozlowski soared to international fame alongside Paul Hogan. However, despite the success of the film series and a handful of other projects, Kozlowski gradually retreated from the bustling Hollywood scene.
Born on January 7, 1958, in Fairfield, Connecticut, Linda Kozlowski nurtured her acting aspirations at the prestigious Juilliard School’s theater program. After earning her degree in 1981, she honed her craft in off-Broadway productions before transitioning to minor roles on Broadway and television, including a notable appearance in the television movie “Death of a Salesman” alongside Dustin Hoffman.
Kozlowski’s path to stardom was not without obstacles. Following her stint as a waitress post-“Death of a Salesman,” she relocated to California, where Dustin Hoffman and his wife graciously provided her shelter in their Malibu beach house. From there, Kozlowski embarked on an audition that would alter her destiny.
Recommended by Hoffman, Kozlowski secured the iconic role of Sue Charlton in “Crocodile Dundee” through a successful audition. The film’s monumental success, grossing over $320 million on a $10 million budget, propelled Kozlowski to overnight stardom, with her fame initially resonating more strongly in Australia due to the film’s early release there.
Despite her newfound celebrity status, Kozlowski felt undervalued in Hollywood. While she continued to feature in the “Crocodile Dundee” sequels, she declined numerous offers for roles that pigeonholed her as the comedic actor’s love interest. Ultimately, Kozlowski decided to bid adieu to acting after the third installment of the franchise.
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