“Her Warmth and Talent Were Unmatched”: Celebrated Actress Linda Lavin Dies at 87
(Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
Linda Lavin, the beloved actress celebrated for her iconic role in CBS’s hit sitcom Alice and her Tony-winning performance in Neil Simon’s Broadway Bound, has passed away at the age of 87. Her representative confirmed she died unexpectedly on Sunday from complications related to recently diagnosed lung cancer.
Lavin remained active in her career until the end. She attended the December 4 premiere of Netflix’s No Good Deed and was preparing for her role in Hulu’s upcoming comedy Mid-Century Modern. Hulu and 20th Television, along with her collaborators, paid tribute to Lavin, calling her a “magnificent actress” and a “beautiful soul.”
Matt Bomer, her co-star in Mid-Century Modern, reflected on his time working with Lavin. “Working with Linda was a privilege. Her warmth and talent were unmatched, and her legacy will inspire countless others,” he said.
Lavin gained widespread fame for her portrayal of Alice Hyatt, a widow navigating life in the CBS sitcom Alice. The show, which aired from 1976 to 1985, was adapted from Martin Scorsese’s Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore. Her performance earned her multiple Golden Globe awards and an Emmy nomination. Known for her charisma and relatability, Lavin became a household name during the show’s run.
Her illustrious career spanned over seven decades, with notable achievements in television, film, and theater. She was Tony-nominated six times, winning in 1987 for her role in Broadway Bound. Lavin’s Broadway credits included Gypsy, Collected Stories, and The Lyons, showcasing her versatility in both drama and comedy. On-screen, she made memorable appearances in The Sopranos, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, and The Good Wife, further cementing her status as a dynamic performer.
Born in Portland, Maine, Lavin discovered her passion for acting early in life. After graduating from the College of William and Mary, she made her Broadway debut in 1962 and continued to captivate audiences in numerous productions throughout her career. Later in life, she and her husband, Steve Bakunas, collaborated to create the Red Barn Studio Theatre in Wilmington, N.C., a space dedicated to fostering creativity and the arts.
Lavin’s impact on the arts extended beyond her performances. Her collaborators described her as “an irreplaceable force in the arts,” and her work inspired both audiences and aspiring actors alike.
Linda Lavin leaves behind a remarkable legacy as a versatile and cherished performer. She is survived by her husband, Steve Bakunas. Her contributions to the stage and screen will continue to resonate, ensuring her place as a celebrated figure in the world of entertainment.
