Polly Holliday, ‘Alice’ star who coined ‘Kiss my grits’ as sassy waitress Flo, dies at 88

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Actress Polly Holliday, most recognized for her Emmy-nominated character from the extended CBS sitcom “Alice,” has passed away at the age of 88.

As a devoted movie enthusiast, I’m saddened to share that the incredible and unforgettable Holliday breathed her last on Tuesday, right within the familiar walls of her New York home. The specifics surrounding her passing remain undisclosed as of now.

It’s a poignant reminder that Holliday was the final surviving member of the stellar cast from the timeless classic “Alice.” Just months prior, Linda Lavin, who graced the screen as Alice herself, departed us in December 2024 following complications arising from lung cancer at the age of 87.

Both these remarkable women left behind a lasting impact on the world of cinema, and their legacies will continue to inspire generations to come.

Music

Volman, along with his high school friend Howard Kaylan, achieved fame by performing ‘Happy Together’, a popular song from the ’60s. Later on, they became known as the harmony-focused duo, Flo & Eddie.

From 1976 to 1985, the television show “Alice” aired on CBS. This comedy-drama series revolved around three waitresses, played by Holliday, Lavin, and Beth Howland, who worked at Mel’s Diner, located along a highway in Phoenix. The diner’s proprietor was portrayed by Vic Tayback. Originating from the 1974 film “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore,” which was written by Robert Getchell, this series also carried his creative vision.

Holiday played the character of Florence “Flo” Jean Castleberry, a sarcastic and quick-witted waitress who came up with the well-known slogan, “Kiss my grits.” Her performances in the sitcom “Alice” earned her three Emmy nominations and two Golden Globe awards.

The actor, born in Alabama on July 2, 1937, departed from “Alice” during its 1979-1980 season and later took on the lead role in “Flo,” a brief spinoff based on her iconic character. “Flo” debuted on CBS in 1980 but was unfortunately cancelled the following year. During this time, she received further Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for her performance.

In the 1970s, Doris Roberts kicked off her acting career, with notable roles such as Tim Allen’s mother-in-law in “Home Improvement,” Betty White’s sister in “The Golden Girls,” and Momma Love in “The Client.” She also graced the big screen in films like “Gremlins,” “The Parent Trap,” and “Mrs. Doubtfire.

Entertainment & Arts

In Toronto, following a prolonged illness, the renowned Canadian actor who was nominated for an Oscar for his part in “Dances With Wolves” and appeared in “Reservation Dogs,” passed away at the age of 73.

As a devoted cinephile, I decided to venture beyond the silver screen and explore the world of live theatre. Stepping onto the illustrious Broadway stage, I graced the productions of “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof,” “All Over Town,” “Arsenic and Old Lace,” and “Picnic.” These performances paved the way for me to collaborate with the legendary Kathleen Turner, captivating Dustin Hoffman, and the inimitable Kyle Chandler, among other esteemed actors. What a thrilling journey it has been so far!

In an interview with the Sarasota Herald-Tribune back in 2003, she admitted that her most iconic quote from Flo was more of a Hollywood invention. Yet, she also described Flo as a Southern woman one often encounters in many different places.

She remarked: “I may not be highly educated, but I’m incredibly astute, have a great sense of humor, and an indomitable spirit that keeps me from being overwhelmed by life.

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2025-09-11 22:01