Polly Holliday, Last Surviving Alice Star, Dies at 88 After Bout With Pneumonia
The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Polly Holliday, the acclaimed actress best remembered for her sharp-tongued, unforgettable role as Florence “Flo” Castleberry on the hit CBS sitcom Alice. Holliday died on September 9, 2025, at her home in Manhattan following complications from pneumonia. She was 88.
A Beloved Sitcom Icon
Holliday’s portrayal of Flo, the wisecracking waitress with the famous catchphrase “Kiss my grits!,” turned her into a household name during the late 1970s. Her character’s fiery wit and Southern charm stood out in the diner setting of Alice, where she starred alongside Linda Lavin, Vic Tayback, and Beth Howland.
The role brought her two Golden Globe Awards and four consecutive Emmy nominations, cementing her place as one of television’s most memorable sitcom stars.
Beyond Alice
Holliday’s talents extended far beyond sitcom comedy. She went on to star in the spinoff Flo, as well as make appearances in beloved films such as The Parent Trap (1998) where she played Marva Kulp Sr. She also held numerous stage roles, showcasing her versatility as a performer.
Her decades-long career balanced TV fame, film appearances, and theater work, earning her the respect of audiences and critics alike.
The Last Surviving Main Cast Member
With her passing, Holliday became the final member of Alice’s original principal cast to leave us. Her death closes a chapter in television history, marking the end of a sitcom era that brought laughter to millions of viewers.
A Legacy of Wit and Warmth
Friends, fans, and colleagues have been quick to celebrate Holliday’s contributions to entertainment. Many have recalled not only her biting humor on screen but also her generosity and kindness off it.
Though she is gone, Polly Holliday leaves behind a legacy of humor, strength, and trailblazing performances. For those who grew up watching Alice, her voice still rings clear: “Kiss my grits!”—a reminder of a character, and an actress, who made an indelible mark on television history.
