The Golden Globe-winning star of the hit sitcom “Alice” passed away in December 2024, leaving her family and fans heartbroken. New details about the legendary actress’s cause of death have now come to light.
Linda Lavin, the acclaimed actress known for her Emmy-nominated role in the 1976 sitcom “Alice” and her Tony-winning performance in the 1986 play “Broadway Bound,” passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 87.
Linda Lavin is seen at the “No Good Deed” Los Angeles Premiere on December 4, 2024, in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
Earlier, in December 2024, her representative confirmed that Lavin died unexpectedly due to complications from recently diagnosed lung cancer. The actress had been actively working just weeks before her death, promoting her Netflix series “No Good Deed” and filming the Hulu comedy “Mid-Century Modern,” where she played a leading role.
Linda Lavin attends the “No Good Deed” LA Premiere at Netflix Tudum Theater on December 4, 2024, in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
According to a death certificate obtained by TMZ, Lavin’s official cause of death was cardiopulmonary arrest, with lung cancer listed as the underlying condition.
Cardiopulmonary arrest, commonly known as cardiac arrest, occurs when the heart stops pumping blood due to an electrical issue, which can lead to unconsciousness and, if untreated, death within minutes.
Linda Lavin is seen on October 2, 2017 | Source: Getty Images
Medical experts emphasize the importance of immediate action, such as calling for help and performing CPR, in such cases to improve survival chances.
In 2024, Lavin underwent a bronchoscopy, a procedure used to examine and diagnose lung conditions. Following her death, she was cremated at her Los Angeles residence, where she lived with her husband, Steve Bakunas.
Born in Portland, Maine, Lavin was raised in a family that nurtured her love for music and performance. Her mother, Lucille, had a career as an opera singer and performed with George Gershwin before stepping away to raise her family.
Lavin’s passion for the arts was evident from a young age, as she began performing on stage at just five years old. She later attended The College of William and Mary, earning a theater degree that set the stage for her remarkable career.
Actress Linda Lavin starring in “Gypsy” on Broadway in 1990 | Source: Getty Images
After graduating, Lavin pursued her dream in New York City, initially performing in regional theater and stock roles.
By the 1960s, she had made her mark on the New York musical scene with standout roles in productions like “Oh, Kay!” (1960), “A Family Affair” (1962), and “It’s a Bird…It’s a Plane…It’s Superman” (1966), where her performance of “You’ve Got Possibilities” became a highlight.
Lavin also showcased her versatility with critically acclaimed performances in plays like “Little Murders” (earning a Drama Desk Award) and “Last of the Red Hot Lovers,” which earned her a Tony nomination.
Lavin’s transition to television was equally impactful. After a brief stint on “Barney Miller” as Det. Janice Wentworth, she became a household name with the sitcom “Alice.”
The series, which aired from 1976 to 1985, was based on Martin Scorsese’s “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore” and followed the life of Alice Hyatt, a widowed mother and aspiring singer working at a diner in Phoenix, Arizona.
Lavin’s portrayal of the witty, resilient Alice resonated with audiences, earning her two Golden Globe Awards and an Emmy nomination.
American actress Linda Lavin posing with her trophy at the 36th Annual Golden Globe Awards held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, on January 27, 1979 | Source: Getty Images
The show’s popularity also stemmed from its relatable depiction of working-class struggles, and Lavin’s performance of the theme song, “There’s a New Girl in Town,” further endeared her to fans.
Even decades after “Alice” ended, Lavin continued to reflect on its cultural impact. In a 2020 interview with CBS’s “Sunday Morning,” she noted how the role inspired her advocacy for equal pay and rights for single mothers.
Linda Lavin as Alice Hyatt in “Alice,” circa January 1983 | Source: Getty Images
“I decided the best way to do it was to wear my Alice uniform and just show up as Alice because people knew who she was and what she stood for,” she said.
In her later years, Lavin remained a dynamic presence in the entertainment world. She starred in popular shows like “Mom” and continued her celebrated stage career, winning a Tony Award in 1987 for “Broadway Bound.”
Stage actors John Randolph and Linda Lavin attend the the 1987 Tony Awards | Source: Getty Images
Speaking to People just three weeks before her death, Lavin reflected on her recent work and her love for acting. She described her role as Phyllis in Netflix’s “No Good Deed” as a fulfilling experience and emphasized how she drew inspiration for her characters from her own life.
“As an actor, I like to expose myself through the character,” she explained, adding, “I have a wonderful life, a wonderful husband who’s standing over there, and I’m really grateful.”
Lavin’s husband, Bakunas, was her partner in life and many creative endeavors. The two met in 1999, at a time when Lavin believed she was not good at relationships. However, the couple’s shared commitment to working through challenges led to a deep bond.
On her birthday in October 2024, Lavin described Bakunas as her “life’s love” in a heartfelt Instagram post, showcasing the warmth and joy they shared throughout their 19-year marriage.
When not working, Lavin enjoyed a rich and fulfilling personal life. She spent time with her dog Mickey and remained committed to using her platform to inspire others. As she said in her “Sunday Morning” interview, she was always eager to “show up” and give her best, both on screen and in her personal relationships.
Linda Lavin’s death marks the loss of a trailblazing actress whose talent spanned decades in television, theater, and film. Best known for her iconic role in “Alice” and her unwavering dedication to her craft, she leaves behind a legacy of groundbreaking performances and a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
