Award-Winning Actress Dead At 87

Linda Lavin, the acclaimed actress who brought charm, wit, and depth to both stage and screen, died today at the age of 87. A beloved figure in the entertainment industry, Lavin was best known for her Emmy-nominated role in the groundbreaking sitcom Alice and her Tony Award-winning performance in Neil Simon’s Broadway Bound. Lavin passed away on December 29, first reported by Deadline.

Born on October 15, 1937, in Portland, Maine, Lavin showed a passion for performance from an early age. She honed her craft at the College of William and Mary, where she majored in theater. After moving to New York City, Lavin quickly made a name for herself in the vibrant theater scene, appearing in numerous Broadway productions throughout the 1960s and 1970s.

Her breakout television role came in 1976 when she starred as Alice Hyatt in the CBS sitcom Alice. Based on the Martin Scorsese film Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore, the show follows a single mother pursuing her dreams while working as a waitress in a roadside diner. Lavin’s portrayal of Alice earned her widespread acclaim, two Golden Globe Awards, and a devoted fan base.

LOS ANGELES – MAY 31: Linda Lavin arrives to the Critic’s Choice Television Awards 2015 on May 31, 2015 in Hollywood, CA

In 1986, Lavin achieved one of her career highlights with her performance in Neil Simon’s Broadway Bound, which earned her a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play. Critics praised her ability to convey the emotional complexity of Kate Jerome, a matriarch grappling with family struggles and generational change.

Beyond her success in entertainment, Lavin was a dedicated advocate for the arts. She supported numerous educational programs aimed at fostering young talent and served as a mentor to aspiring actors.

LOS ANGELES, CA. December 04, 2024: Linda Lavin and Steve Bakunas at the premiere for No Good Deed at the Tudum Theatre.

In her later years, Lavin continued to perform, captivating audiences in shows like The Good Wife and Madam Secretary. She also returned to the stage, appearing in revivals of classic plays and musicals, often receiving standing ovations for her powerhouse performances.

“Our deepest and heartfelt condolences go to Linda Lavin’s family and loved ones,” Hulu and 20th Television said in a statement. “She was a legend in our industry, bringing her tremendous talent to audiences for over seven decades. She will be forever missed by her Mid-Century Modern family, as we mourn this incredible loss together.”

LOS ANGELES, CA. December 04, 2024: Abbi Jacobson, Teyonah Parris, Denis Leary, O-T Fagbenle, Luke Wilson, Ray Romano, Linda Lavin, Lisa Kudrow, Linda Cardellini and cast at No Good Deed premiere

“Mid-Century Modern,” starring Nathan Lane, Matt Bomer, and Nathan Lee Graham alongside Lavin, had wrapped seven of its planned ten episodes before breaking for the holidays. The show, created by Max Mutchnick and David Kohan with James Burrows as director and executive producer, was slated to pick back up in mid-January. Following Lavin’s departure, the future of the series is now in question as the team determines how to adjust without one of its principal actors.

“Working with Linda was one of the highlights of our careers,” he co-stars said in a statement. “She was a magnificent actress, singer, musician, and a heat seeking missile with a joke. But more significantly, she was a beautiful soul. Deep, joyful, generous and loving. She made our days better. The entire staff and crew will miss her beyond measure. We are better for having known her.”

Lavin is survived by her husband, musician Steve Bakunas,  who was by her side at her passing, and a large extended family. Her warmth, humor, and unmatched talent will be deeply missed by fans worldwide.

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