Polly Holliday, the iconic actress who brought the fiery waitress Flo to life on the long-running CBS sitcom *Alice*, has passed away at the age of 88.

Known for her gum-smacking sass and the unforgettable catchphrase “Kiss my grits!”, Holliday’s portrayal of Flo became one of television’s most beloved characters in the 1970s and early 1980s.

Her career spanned decades, crossing over from television to Broadway and film, leaving an indelible mark on American entertainment.

This article celebrates the life, achievements, and legacy of a woman whose talent and spirit continue to inspire.

Born on July 2, 1937, in Jasper, Alabama, Polly Holliday’s journey into acting began somewhat unexpectedly.

Originally majoring in piano at Alabama College for Women, she soon found her passion in theater while attending Florida State University.

Joining the Asolo Repertory Theater in Sarasota in 1962, she honed her craft for nearly a decade before moving to New York City to pursue Broadway.

Her Broadway debut came in 1974 with the Murray Schisgal comedy *All Over Town*, directed by Dustin Hoffman.

This marked the beginning of a flourishing stage career that would eventually earn her a Tony nomination for Best Featured Actress in 1990 for her role in the Tennessee Williams revival *Cat on a Hot Tin Roof*.

Her theater work showcased her versatility and depth as an actress, traits that would define her screen performances.

Polly Holliday’s breakthrough came with her role as Florence Jean Castleberry—better known simply as Flo—on the sitcom *Alice*.

The show, centered around a group of waitresses working at Mel’s Diner, became a cultural phenomenon.

Holliday’s Flo was a feisty, redheaded waitress whose gum-chewing, sharp tongue, and bold personality made her stand out.

Her signature line, “Kiss my grits!”, quickly became a catchphrase that resonated with audiences nationwide, embodying a mix of Southern charm and rebellious spirit.

The phrase entered popular culture, quoted and referenced far beyond the show’s fanbase.

Holliday’s performance earned her three Emmy nominations and two Golden Globe wins for Best Supporting Actress in a Television Series, affirming her as a standout talent of her generation.

Capitalizing on the popularity of her character, CBS launched a spinoff series titled *Flo* in which Holliday reprised her role.

The show followed Flo’s return to Texas to run a saloon, offering fans a deeper glimpse into her life outside the diner.

Although *Flo* lasted only two seasons, it cemented Holliday’s status as a leading television actress capable of carrying a show on her own.

The series added layers to Flo’s character, revealing a complexity behind the sass and grit that audiences adored.

While television brought Holliday widespread fame, her career was far from confined to the small screen.

On stage, she continued to impress, with her Tony-nominated role in *Cat on a Hot Tin Roof* opposite Charles Durning standing out as a highlight.

Her film roles, though often supporting, were memorable and diverse.

One of her most iconic film moments came in the 1980s cult classic *Gremlins*, where she played the wicked Mrs.Deagle.

Her death scene—being slingshot out of a window by mischievous gremlins—remains one of the most memorable and darkly comedic moments of that era.

She also appeared in beloved films such as *Mrs. Doubtfire* and *The Parent Trap*, showcasing her ability to adapt to different genres and audiences.

Beyond *Alice* and *Flo*, Polly Holliday made numerous guest appearances on popular television shows, including *Home Improvement* (as Tim Allen’s mother-in-law), *Homicide: Life on the Streets*, *The Golden Girls*, and *Amazing Stories*.

Each role demonstrated her range and enduring appeal.

Her final film credit came in 2010 with Doug Liman’s political thriller *Fair Game*, marking the end of a long and varied career that spanned nearly five decades.

Despite her fame, Polly Holliday remained grounded and dedicated to her craft.

She never let the character of Flo define her entirely, always seeking challenging and diverse roles in theater and film.

Her background in music education and early theater work laid a strong foundation for her acting career, and she was respected by peers for her professionalism and warmth.

Interestingly, Holliday also contributed behind the scenes; she consulted with Dustin Hoffman on his performance for the film *Tootsie*, helping him develop the character’s Southern soap opera star alter ego.

Polly Holliday’s passing marks the end of an era for fans of classic television and film.

Her portrayal of Flo not only entertained millions but also gave voice to a strong, witty Southern woman at a time when female characters were often relegated to stereotypes.

Her catchphrase “Kiss my grits!” remains a cultural touchstone, instantly recognizable and often quoted.

More importantly, her work helped pave the way for more complex and empowered female characters in television.

Her legacy lives on through reruns of *Alice* and *Flo*, her memorable film appearances, and the countless actors and fans she inspired.

Polly Holliday died peacefully at her home in Manhattan, leaving behind a rich legacy of laughter, drama, and unforgettable performances.

She had no immediate survivors, but her impact on the entertainment world endures.

As fans and colleagues remember her, it is clear that Polly Holliday was much more than Flo—she was a gifted actress, a trailblazer, and a beloved figure whose work brought joy and inspiration to generations.

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