Remembering Linda Lavin: Beloved Star of ‘Alice’ Passes at 87

Linda Lavin, famed star of ‘Alice’ and Tony-winning actress, passed away at 87 due to lung cancer complications. An influential figure in theater and TV, she had recently continued acting. Lavin’s legacy includes notable performances, memorable roles, and a lasting impact on the industry.

Linda Lavin, the cherished actress known for her roles in the sitcom ‘Alice’ and the Tony-winning play ‘Broadway Bound,’ passed away on December 29 at the age of 87 due to complications from recently diagnosed lung cancer. Her sudden death has left fans and colleagues in shock as she had been actively working in the entertainment industry just days earlier.

Beginning her journey on Broadway in the 1960s, Lavin showcased her talent in musicals like “It’s a Bird…It’s a Plane…It’s Superman” and plays like “Last of the Red Hot Lovers.” Over the next fifty years, she balanced a successful theater career with various television roles, notably as the lead in ‘Alice,’ which ran for nine seasons on CBS.

Lavin continued her prolific career into her later years, starring in multiple series such as ‘9JKL’ and ‘B Positive,’ demonstrating her enduring talent. This December, she appeared in the premiere of ‘No Good Deed.’ Her last public display was marked by a warm red carpet walk just weeks before her death.

Reflecting on Lavin’s impact, ‘9JKL’ executive producer Aaron Kaplan stated how her role in ‘Alice’ influenced his love for television and highlighted her kindness and generosity in their professional relationship. Lavin received significant accolades, including a Tony Award for ‘Broadway Bound’ and multiple nominations throughout her career.

Lavin’s filmography includes notable works like ‘Damn Yankees!’ and ‘Being the Ricardos.’ She is survived by her devoted husband, Steve Bakunas, whom she cherished over their 19 years together. Her legacy lives on, etched in the hearts of those who admired her luminous talent and exuberant spirit.

Linda Lavin was a renowned actress whose illustrious career spanned several decades, making significant contributions to both stage and screen. She earned acclaim for her role in ‘Alice,’ bringing a unique charm and depth to the character of a widowed diner waitress. Lavin’s roots in theater laid the foundation for a rich legacy of performances, highlighted by her Tony-winning role in ‘Broadway Bound.’ Her journey reflects the evolution of television and theater, with her influence felt across generations of actors and audiences alike.

Linda Lavin’s vibrant legacy as an Emmy-nominated actress and Tony Award winner continues to inspire. Her roles in iconic shows and plays, coupled with her gracious spirit, have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Though she has departed, her contributions to film and theater ensure that she will remain a beloved figure in the hearts of many spectators.

Original Source: deadline.com