Linda Kozlowski’s journey into the world of Hollywood is a story that blends talent, luck, and a bit of serendipity. Best known for her role as Sue Charlton in the iconic “Crocodile Dundee” series, her rise to fame was anything but typical. When she first stepped onto the big screen alongside Paul Hogan, there was a sense that something special was happening. The chemistry between the two actors was palpable, and the film struck a chord worldwide, grossing over $320 million on a modest $10 million budget. Suddenly, Linda Kozlowski found herself catapulted into the international spotlight, a star almost overnight.
Her career before that was rooted in the theater. Born on January 7, 1958, in Fairfield, Connecticut, Linda was passionate about acting from a young age. She pursued this passion seriously, enrolling at the prestigious Juilliard School, where she honed her craft in theater. After graduating in 1981, she began working in off-Broadway productions, gradually making a name for herself in the New York theater scene. She also appeared in smaller roles on Broadway and TV; one notable early appearance was her role in the television adaptation of “Death of a Salesman,” where she had the opportunity to share the screen with Dustin Hoffman himself. That experience was pivotal, not only for her career but also because Hoffman became a mentor who believed in her talent.
However, making it in Hollywood wasn’t an easy feat. After her stint in “Death of a Salesman,” Linda moved to California, taking on various low-profile jobs—most notably, waitressing—to make ends meet while auditioning for roles. It was during this time that she crossed paths with Hoffman and his wife, who kindly took her in at their Malibu beach house. That period marked a turning point not just emotionally but professionally. It was at her mentor’s house that she prepared for what would become the defining opportunity of her life. An audition for “Crocodile Dundee” came up, and thanks to Dustin Hoffman’s suggestion, she landed the part of Sue Charlton.
The film’s massive success lifted her into superstardom almost instantly. Her portrayal of the smart, level-headed journalist was widely appreciated, and her chemistry with Hogan made the film memorable and endearing. What’s interesting is that her fame initially took hold in Australia, where the movie was released early. Australians seemed to connect with her character and her performance, which might have contributed to her reputation there before it fully exploded across the rest of the world.
Despite her newfound fame and the acclaim she received, Linda often felt that Hollywood hadn’t truly recognized her talent. She played along in the “Crocodile Dundee” sequels but was cautious about the roles being offered to her afterward. Many of those opportunities seemed to pigeonhole her as “the girlfriend” or as a sidekick rather than as a leading lady in her own right. It created a sense of frustration, making her question whether she wanted to continue chasing the Hollywood dream. Ultimately, she decided to step away from acting after the third “Dundee” film, feeling that her talents were being underused, and realizing she wanted more than just fleeting fame.
Her personal life during those years was closely intertwined with her professional life. Her relationship with Paul Hogan, her co-star and now her husband, blossomed during the filming of the series. The two married in 1990, celebrating their love amidst the fame and chaos of Hollywood. They became parents to a son named Chance in 1998, a period of joy in an otherwise turbulent decade. But after 24 years of marriage, they separated in 2014. The breakup was amicable, and Linda chose to see it as a new chapter rather than an end.
Following her divorce, Linda finally had the space and freedom to reflect on what truly mattered to her. She received a substantial settlement, giving her financial security and the flexibility to pursue her passions outside of Hollywood. Her journey took a spiritual turn when she moved to Morocco, a country renowned for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and old-world charm. There, she met Moulay Hafid Baba, a local tour guide whose warmth and authenticity struck a chord with her immediately. Their connection was instant, and soon enough, Linda found herself embracing a new way of life—not on a film set, but in the real, raw beauty of Marrakech.
Together, Linda and Hafid co-founded Dream My Destiny, a luxury travel agency that creates bespoke itineraries for people seeking unique experiences in Morocco. Her intuition, sharpened during her acting days, now guides her in designing these personalized journeys. She’s passionate about sharing the magic of this enchanted land with others—whether it’s arranging private desert excursions, organizing cooking classes in traditional riads, or guiding clients through centuries-old medinas. It’s a far cry from Hollywood’s glitz, but Linda finds that these meaningful connections and authentic experiences bring her to a place of true fulfillment.
