Tony Award-winning actress Linda Lavin, celebrated for her iconic role as Alice Hyatt in the beloved TV sitcom “Alice,” has passed away at the age of 87. News of her death was confirmed by her representative, Michael Gagliardo, who stated that Lavin died on Sunday due to complications arising from recently diagnosed lung cancer. She is survived by her husband, Steve Bakunas, whom Gagliardo described as “the love of her life.”
Alt text: Linda Lavin portraying Alice Hyatt, a resilient waitress in the sitcom “Alice”, showcasing her warm smile and apron.
Lavin’s career spanned decades, marked by remarkable achievements in television, film, and theater. She became a household name through “Alice,” which aired from 1976 to 1985 and depicted the life of a widowed mother working as a waitress in a diner to support her son and pursue her singing aspirations. The role earned Lavin critical acclaim and solidified her place in television history.
However, Lavin’s talents extended far beyond the small screen. Her passion for performing began in childhood, and by the 1960s, she was actively working in the theater scene in New Jersey. Her Broadway debut was in 1962 in “A Family Affair,” and her career quickly ascended. In 1969, she received her first Tony Award nomination, foreshadowing the accolades to come.
Alt text: Linda Lavin holding her Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play for her performance in “Broadway Bound”, radiating pride and accomplishment.
The pinnacle of her Broadway success arrived in 1987 when she won the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play for her compelling performance in Neil Simon’s “Broadway Bound.” This prestigious award recognized her exceptional stage presence and acting prowess. She garnered further Tony nominations for her roles in “The Diary of Anne Frank” (1998), “Tales of the Allergist Wife” (2000), and “Collected Stories” (2010), demonstrating her consistent excellence and versatility on stage.
While celebrated for “Alice” and her Broadway triumphs, Lavin maintained a prolific presence in television throughout her career. She appeared in numerous popular sitcoms, including “Barney Miller,” “Conrad Bloom,” “Sean Saves the World,” “9JKL,” and most recently, “B Positive,” which aired from 2020 to 2022. Her voice acting talents were also showcased in the animated series “Courage the Cowardly Dog.”
In addition to her extensive acting credits, Lavin also ventured into directing, helming 10 episodes of “Alice” and taking on executive producer roles for various TV movies and docuseries. Her multifaceted talents highlighted her deep engagement and influence within the entertainment industry.
Even in her later years, Lavin remained active in her craft. She recently appeared in three episodes of the Netflix series “No Good Deed,” which premiered in December 2024, acting alongside a star-studded cast. Her final projects include posthumous releases in the film “One Big Happy Family,” expected in January, and the Hulu series “Mid-Century Modern,” slated for release later in 2025, ensuring her legacy will continue to grace screens in the coming year.
Linda Lavin’s personal life included marriages to Ron Leibman, Kip Niven, and finally, Steve Bakunas, whom she married in 2005. While she did not have children of her own, she embraced her role as a stepmother. Her passing marks the end of an era for fans of “Alice” and Broadway enthusiasts alike, leaving behind a rich tapestry of performances that will continue to entertain and inspire for generations to come.
Alt text: Close-up portrait of Linda Lavin with a gentle smile, reflecting her warmth, talent, and enduring presence in entertainment.
