Linda Lavin, a beloved Tony Award-winning actress, has sadly passed away at the age of 87. The news of her death was confirmed by her representative, Bill Veloric, who shared that she had been battling lung cancer. Lavin’s contribution to both stage and screen will be remembered and cherished by fans and fellow actors alike.
Born in Portland, Maine, Lavin had a passion for performing from a young age. After graduating from the College of William and Mary, she moved to New York City to pursue her dreams. She quickly made a name for herself in the world of Broadway, catching the attention of iconic producer and director Hal Prince. Lavin’s talent and dedication to her craft earned her a Tony nomination for her role in Neil Simon’s “Last of the Red Hot Lovers” in 1969.
However, it was her role as the iconic Alice Hyatt in the hit TV sitcom “Alice” that solidified her status as a working class icon. The show, based on the Academy Award-winning film “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore,” captured the hearts of audiences with its relatable characters and witty humor. Lavin’s portrayal of Alice, a widowed mother working as a waitress in a roadside diner, resonated with viewers and made her a role model for working moms.
The show’s success led to Lavin becoming a household name and popular catchphrase “Kiss my grits” from her co-star Polly Holliday, who played waitress Flo, becoming a part of pop culture. Lavin’s talent and charm shone through in every episode, and the series became a top 10 show during its run from 1976 to 1985.
Even after the end of “Alice,” Lavin’s career continued to thrive. In 1987, she won a Tony for Best Actress in a Play for her performance in Neil Simon’s “Broadway Bound.” She also appeared in various TV shows and films, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
In recent years, Lavin continued to work and inspire audiences with her performances. She was promoting a new Netflix series, “No Good Deed,” and was filming a forthcoming Hulu series, “Mid-Century Modern,” before her passing. Her passion for acting never wavered, and she continued to receive critical acclaim for her work. She was described as “an absolute wonder to behold” in the role of Rita Lyons in “The Lyons” and her performance in “Collected Stories” was praised for its “complete, nuanced” portrayal.
In addition to her successful acting career, Lavin also had a passion for music and the arts. She released her first CD, “Possibilities,” and even played Jennifer Lopez’s grandmother in the film “The Back-Up Plan.” She also used her love for the arts to give back to her community. Lavin and her husband, Steve Bakunas, converted an old automotive garage into the Red Barn Studio Theatre in Wilmington, North Carolina. Their productions included popular plays like “Doubt,” “Glengarry Glen Ross,” and “The Tale of the Allergist’s Wife,” in which Lavin also starred on Broadway.
Linda Lavin’s legacy will live on through her impressive body of work and the memories of those who were lucky enough to work with her and watch her perform. She was a talented and dedicated actress who never shied away from a new challenge. When asked for advice for up-and-coming actresses, Lavin always stressed the importance of hard work and seizing opportunities. Her passion for her craft and her love for life will continue to inspire and motivate others for years to come.
In her 70s, Lavin experienced a burst of renewed attention and continued to receive recognition for her performances. She earned a Tony nomination for Nicky Silver’s “The Lyons” and also appeared in popular TV shows like “Mom” and “9JKL.” Lavin’s incredible career and her unwavering dedication to her craft will forever be an inspiration to aspiring actors and fans all around the world.
Linda Lavin will be deeply missed, but her talent and impact will never be forgotten. She leaves behind a legacy of unforgettable performances and a lasting impression on the entertainment industry. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family and loved ones during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Linda Lavin.
