Linda Lavin, a cherished actress celebrated for her extensive contributions to theater and television, passed away unexpectedly on December 29. She was 87 years old and had only recently been diagnosed with lung cancer. Despite her health challenges, Lavin continued to work until just before the holiday season, demonstrating her passion for performance and dedication to her craft.
Born to Russian Jewish immigrants, Lavin’s fascination with performing began early in life. Her debut on stage occurred at just five years old, and she honed her skills at the HB Studio. Although her early career included notable Broadway plays, Lavin gained significant attention in the 1960s with her performances in productions like “A Family Affair,” “Last of the Red Hot Lovers,” and “It’s a Bird…It’s a Plane…It’s Superman,” where she introduced audiences to the song “You’ve Got Possibilities.”
Lavin’s transition from stage to screen marked a new phase in her career. Her memorable role as Detective Janice Wentworth on “Barney Miller” was a stepping stone to her historic lead role in the hit sitcom “Alice,” which aired from 1976 to 1985. “Alice,” inspired by Martin Scorsese’s film “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore,” showcased Lavin as a singing waitress, earning her two Golden Globe awards and an Emmy nomination. She even performed the show’s catchy theme song, “There’s a New Girl in Town.”
Throughout her career, Lavin balanced her time between television and theater. She appeared in various other shows and films, including “The Muppets Take Manhattan”, and made a triumphant return to Broadway in 1986 with “Broadway Bound,” winning a Tony Award for her performance. Lavin’s remarkable stage career included numerous accolades, with Broadway productions such as “Gypsy” and “The Diary of Anne Frank,” highlighting her versatility and talent.
In her later years, Lavin maintained her presence on television through appearances in series like “Santa Clarita Diet” and was in the midst of filming a new sitcom called “Mid-Century Modern” at the time of her passing. This production held significant promise as it starred Nathan Lane and featured a concept reminiscent of the classic “Golden Girls.”
Linda Lavin is survived by her third husband, Steve Bakunas, along with stepchildren and grandchildren, who will undoubtedly cherish her legacy and contributions to the arts. Her death marks the end of an era for many fans and fellow performers, but her influence on the stage and screen will continue to inspire future generations.
As the entertainment community mourns her loss, the legacy of Linda Lavin serves as a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and the arts. Through her remarkable body of work, she has left an indelible mark that will be celebrated for years to come.