Linda Lavin: Broadway actor from ‘Alice’ dies at 87

New York Stage Actor and TV Icon Linda Lavin Passes Away at 87

Linda Lavin, a beloved Tony Award-winning stage actor best known for her iconic role as Alice on the TV sitcom “Alice,” has sadly passed away at the age of 87. Her representative confirmed that she died in Los Angeles on Sunday due to complications from recently diagnosed lung cancer.

Lavin’s career was a blend of success on both Broadway and television. After making a name for herself on Broadway, she transitioned to Hollywood in the mid-1970s. She landed the lead role in the CBS sitcom “Alice,” a spinoff of the film “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore,” which earned Ellen Burstyn an Oscar. Lavin’s portrayal of the widowed mother and waitress Alice Hyatt resonated with audiences, making her a role model for working mothers.

The show “Alice” ran from 1976 to 1985, with Lavin’s rendition of the theme song “There’s a New Girl in Town” becoming a fan favorite. Her catchphrase “Kiss my grits” became a cultural phenomenon, and her chemistry with co-stars Polly Holliday and Vic Tayback added to the show’s charm.

Lavin’s talents extended beyond television, as she also found success on Broadway. In 1987, she won a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play for her performance in Neil Simon’s “Broadway Bound.” Throughout her career, she garnered critical acclaim for her stage work, earning multiple Tony nominations and accolades.

Despite her passing, Lavin’s legacy lives on through her recent projects. She was actively working on a new Netflix series titled “No Good Deed” and filming a Hulu series called “Mid-Century Modern.” Her dedication to her craft and versatility as an actress shone through in every role she undertook.

Lavin’s career trajectory from Broadway to Hollywood exemplifies her passion for storytelling and dedication to her craft. She leaves behind a lasting impact on the entertainment industry and will be remembered for her immense talent and contributions to the world of acting.

Rest in peace, Linda Lavin.