It’s been 36 years since Alice Hyatt walked out of Mel’s Diner for the final time, chasing her lifelong dream of becoming a singer. But Linda Lavin, the actress who brought Alice to life, continues to hear heartfelt thanks from women who saw their own struggles and triumphs reflected in the character. Alice was more than just a TV mom—she was a beacon of hope for countless women navigating the challenges of single motherhood and workplace equality.
Linda Lavin tells Closer, “Alice represented the vast majority of women in this country—single mothers fighting for fair wages, healthcare, childcare, and respect. What I loved most about the show was how it inspired women to take charge of their lives and dream bigger. Over the years, it resonated with five generations of families, kids, and women alike.”
Still Going Strong at 83
At 83 years young, Linda Lavin shows no signs of slowing down. The legendary performer keeps her schedule packed with exciting projects. She recently appeared in the CBS sitcom B Positive, where she plays a sharp-witted judge in the critically acclaimed film Naked Singularity, starring John Boyega. The movie, set in real-life Manhattan courts, gives viewers a gritty, unvarnished look at the judicial system. Linda’s portrayal of a no-nonsense, yet humorous judge adds depth to the film and showcases her versatility as an actress.
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But that’s not all—Linda has a string of live musical performances lined up and a prominent role in the highly anticipated biopic Being the Ricardos, which tells the story of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz. Clearly, retirement is not in her vocabulary.
Memorable Moments from Alice
You starred on Alice for nine seasons. Do you have a favorite episode?
One of the most memorable episodes for me was in our first season back in 1976. It featured Alice preparing to shoot a commercial for Mel’s Diner. She envisioned herself as this glamorous star, singing a sultry song to promote the diner, but instead, Mel dressed her up in a giant hamburger costume. That moment perfectly captured the humor of having grand expectations only to end up in a completely unexpected situation. It was one of my favorites because it highlighted the comedic contrast between dreams and reality.
Behind the Scenes with the Cast
How did the cast get along during those nine years?
We were like a second family, and like any family, we had our ups and downs. It’s all about balancing personalities, needs, and egos. But what kept us together was the shared goal of creating something special. We managed to maintain a harmonious working environment for nine years, which is quite remarkable in the world of television. That speaks volumes about the camaraderie and mutual respect we had for one another.
Life After Alice: B Positive and Naked Singularity
You’re currently on the sitcom B Positive. Who do you play?
I portray a resident at the retirement home where Annaleigh Ashford, the show’s star, works. I’ve become something of a mentor and confidante to her. You could say I’m the voice of reason in a sea of youthful innocence. It’s a role that allows me to share wisdom and life lessons with the younger characters, adding a layer of authenticity to the show.
You also played a judge in your new film, Naked Singularity. What was that experience like?
Filming in real Manhattan courts gave the production an authentic, unpolished feel that makes Law & Order look almost glamorous by comparison. I played a no-nonsense judge who wasn’t afraid to call out the star, John Boyega, when necessary. It was a powerful role that allowed me to explore the complexities of the judicial system while injecting some humor into the proceedings. It was an unforgettable experience.
A Career Full of Variety
You’ve had a diverse career spanning movies, TV, theater, and recording. Was there ever a time when you doubted becoming a performer?
Absolutely. There was a period in my life when the Broadway scene slowed down, and the theater industry faced significant challenges in the 1970s. That’s when I ventured to California in search of new opportunities. It was a pivotal moment, and for a while, it seemed like I might need to explore other career paths.
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What other career might you have pursued?
If acting hadn’t worked out, I believe I would have become an interior decorator. Design and color have always fascinated me, and it’s a passion I’ve pursued as a hobby. My husband, Steve Bakunas, and I even created a venue for concerts and weddings in Claverack, New York. We affectionately call it Bakulaville, combining our last names. It’s a labor of love that reflects our shared interests and creativity.
Love and Marriage
How did you and your husband meet?
Our meeting was serendipitous. I established a foundation to work with at-risk inner-city girls, helping them express themselves through movement, music, or poetry. During one of these programs in Cape Cod, I met Steve. It was a beautiful coincidence that led to a wonderful partnership.
What’s your secret to maintaining a happy marriage?
There’s no single secret, but communication, effort, and understanding are key. Marriage is about learning to listen, empathize, and find joy in each other’s company. It’s about celebrating the little victories and weathering the storms together. It’s a journey of growth and discovery.
Gratitude and Reflection
What are you most proud of in your life?
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