Linda Lavin, a Tony-winning Broadway star and television icon who captured the hearts of millions as the no-nonsense waitress Alice Hyatt in the hit sitcom *Alice*, passed away at the age of 87. Lavin died on Sunday in Los Angeles due to complications from recently diagnosed lung cancer, her representative confirmed.
Lavin’s passing marks the end of a remarkable era in American entertainment, one where she became a symbol of working-class resilience and determination. Her portrayal of Alice Hyatt—a widowed mother navigating the challenges of single parenthood while working at Mel’s Diner—struck a chord with audiences across the country and cemented her place in television history.
A Portland, Maine native, Lavin’s journey to stardom began on the East Coast. After graduating from the College of William and Mary, she moved to New York City to pursue her dreams. She worked her way up, performing in nightclubs and Broadway ensembles before catching the eye of legendary producer Hal Prince, who cast her in the 1966 musical *It’s a Bird…It’s a Plane…It’s Superman*.
Her Broadway breakthrough came in Neil Simon’s *Last of the Red Hot Lovers*, earning her a Tony nomination in 1969. Years later, she would win the Tony for Best Actress for her performance in Simon’s *Broadway Bound* in 1987. Lavin’s ability to seamlessly blend humor, vulnerability, and strength made her a standout talent in both the theater and television worlds.
In 1976, Lavin transitioned to Hollywood, landing the lead role in the CBS sitcom *Alice*. Based on Martin Scorsese’s film *Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore*, the series followed Alice Hyatt as she balanced life as a diner waitress and a single mom raising her young son. Lavin’s portrayal resonated deeply with audiences, particularly working mothers who saw themselves in her character’s struggles and triumphs.
With its memorable catchphrases, like Flo’s iconic “Kiss my grits,” and Lavin’s heartfelt rendition of the theme song, *Alice* became a cultural touchstone. The show ran for nine seasons, earning a spot among the top 10 primetime series during its peak years.
Unlike many contemporary shows that leaned into cynicism, *Alice* celebrated hard work, personal responsibility, and family values—qualities that endeared it to Middle America and made Lavin a role model for generations.
While Lavin is best remembered for *Alice*, her career extended far beyond the confines of the diner set. She continued to shine on Broadway in productions like *The Lyons*, *Collected Stories*, and *Other Desert Cities*, earning rave reviews for her nuanced performances. Critics often lauded her impeccable comedic timing and ability to bring complex characters to life.
Lavin also appeared in films such as *Wanderlust* and *The Back-Up Plan*, and she released her first CD, *Possibilities*, showcasing her vocal talents. In her later years, she embraced television roles on shows like *Sean Saves the World* and *Mom*, proving that her versatility and charm were timeless.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Lavin was deeply committed to nurturing the arts. Alongside her husband, Steve Bakunas, she transformed an old garage in Wilmington, North Carolina, into the 50-seat Red Barn Studio Theatre. There, they staged productions of works like *Glengarry Glen Ross* and *Rabbit Hole*, further enriching the local arts community.
When asked about advice for aspiring actresses, Lavin’s wisdom was simple but profound: “Work brings work. As long as it wasn’t morally reprehensible to me, I did it.”
Linda Lavin’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who admired her talent, tenacity, and dedication to her craft. Her legacy as a working-class heroine and Broadway luminary will undoubtedly endure, inspiring future generations to embrace hard work, perseverance, and the pursuit of their dreams.
As the lyrics of her *Alice* theme song remind us, “There’s a new girl in town, and she’s looking good.” Linda Lavin, with her indomitable spirit and unforgettable performances, will forever be that “new girl” in the hearts of her fans.
