Linda Lavin, the talented actress and singer who captured the hearts of audiences with her iconic roles on stage and screen, has passed away at the age of 87. According to her representative, Lavin died on Sunday due to complications from recently discovered lung cancer.

Born on October 15, 1937, Lavin began her career in the entertainment industry as a singer, performing in various nightclubs and cabarets. She eventually transitioned to acting, making her Broadway debut in the 1960s. Her breakthrough role came in 1966 with the musical “It’s a Bird…It’s a Plane…It’s Superman,” earning her a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Musical.

However, it was her starring role as Alice Hyatt in the hit television series “Alice” that brought Lavin widespread recognition and acclaim. The show, which aired from 1976 to 1985, followed the life of a single mother working as a waitress in a diner and became a staple of American television. Lavin’s portrayal of the lovable and feisty Alice earned her multiple Emmy nominations and a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series.

In addition to her work on “Alice,” Lavin continued to appear on stage, winning a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play for her performance in the 1987 production of “Broadway Bound.” She also appeared in numerous other television shows and films, including “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” “The Bob Newhart Show,” and “Manhattan.”

Throughout her career, Lavin was known for her incredible talent, wit, and charm. Her passing leaves a void in the entertainment industry, and she will be deeply missed by her fans and colleagues alike.