Linda Lavin, the celebrated Tony Award-winning actress and singer known for her iconic role in the beloved TV sitcom “Alice,” has passed away at the age of 87, as confirmed by her representative. Her death occurred on Sunday, attributed to complications stemming from recently diagnosed lung cancer. She leaves behind her partner, Steve Bakunas, whom her representative described as “the love of her life.”
Lavin gained fame through “Alice,” which aired from 1976 to 1985. The show portrayed the life of a working mother and aspiring singer, Alice Hyatt, as she juggles her responsibilities while working at a diner. Lavin’s remarkable career began at a young age; she started performing at just five years old, and by the end of the 1960s, she was receiving accolades for her performances in numerous musicals.
In more recent years, she appeared in three episodes of the Netflix series “No Good Deed,” and she has two posthumous projects lined up: the film “One Big Happy Family,” set to premiere in January, and a Hulu series titled “Mid-Century Modern,” expected to release in 2025.
Throughout her career, Lavin demonstrated her versatility with a notable array of performances both on stage and screen. She won a Tony in 1987 for her role in “Broadway Bound” and received multiple nominations for various performances, including productions of “The Diary of Anne Frank” and “Collected Stories.”
In addition to her work in sitcoms such as “Barney Miller,” “Conrad Bloom,” and “B Positive,” Lavin’s impressive resume includes directing multiple episodes of “Alice” and executive producing several television projects.
Lavin’s marriage to Steve Bakunas, her third husband, began in 2005. Previously, she was married to actor Kip Niven and “Angels in America” star Ron Leibman. Although she did not have children of her own, she embraced her roles as a stepparent to the children from her previous marriages.
Linda Lavin’s legacy is one of immense talent and enduring impact on the entertainment industry. Her contributions will undoubtedly be remembered and cherished by fans and colleagues alike.
As we reflect on Lavin’s remarkable career and the joy she brought to countless audiences, her spirit and artistry will continue to inspire future generations of performers.