Linda Kozlowski, best known for her role as Sue Charlton in Crocodile Dundee, delivered one of the most unforgettable scenes in Hollywood history—but not many realize that it was real, not scripted. In this iconic moment, Sue bravely handles a dangerous encounter with a crocodile, a scene that left viewers on the edge of their seats. What shocked fans the most, however, is that Kozlowski’s fearlessness wasn't entirely acted. In fact, she had a close call during the shoot, which added to the authenticity of the moment.
The film, released in 1986, is known for its wild, adventurous spirit, blending action and comedy. But this particular scene with the crocodile was no joke. While many assumed the dangerous stunt was done by a professional, Kozlowski's commitment to realism meant she was more involved in the scene than anyone expected. On set, the crocodile wasn't just a prop; it was a real, live animal. The film’s producers and trainers had ensured the creature was relatively safe to work with, but Kozlowski was still put in a high-stakes situation, facing the reptile up close.
As she interacted with the crocodile, her instincts kicked in. The tension was palpable, and her reaction wasn’t acting—it was raw, real, and filled with a sense of genuine fear. Her ability to stay composed in the face of danger cemented her as one of the film's most compelling stars, and it added an edge of realism that few could’ve predicted.
While Kozlowski’s real-life bravery may have gone unnoticed by many viewers, it’s part of what made her performance so captivating. No one suspected that what appeared to be another scripted Hollywood stunt was actually a heart-pounding moment that almost turned into a real-life disaster.