Born in Brooklyn, New York, Linker's first major acting role was as Kelly Lewis in the short-lived television series Lewis & Clark, which ran for one season from 1981 to 1982. Shortly thereafter, Linker was cast as central character Lauren Hutchinson on the teen comedy/drama Square Pegs. Square Pegs told the story of two high school freshmen, Hutchinson and Patty Greene (played by Sarah Jessica Parker), and their at times desperate attempts to fit in and achieve popularity. Linker wore fake braces and a fatsuit in order to appear less stylish. Though a critical favorite, low ratings led to the show's cancellation after only one season.