Polly Holliday, the distinguished stage and screen actress best remembered for her role as the gum-chewing waitress Florence Jean “Flo” Castleberry on the popular CBS sitcom Alice, passed away peacefully at her home in Manhattan on Tuesday.

She was 88 years old.

Her death was confirmed by her longtime agent and close friend, Dennis Aspland, who shared the news with the New York Times.

Holliday’s portrayal of Flo was a defining moment in television history, immortalizing the catchphrase “Kiss my grits!” and cementing her place as a beloved figure in American pop culture.

The character Flo was a bright and fiery presence on Alice, a sitcom that revolved around the lives of waitresses working at Mel’s Diner.

While Linda Lavin starred as the lead character, Holliday’s Flo quickly became one of the show’s most memorable and funniest figures.

Her performance spanned the first four seasons of the series, earning her critical acclaim.

During her time on Alice, Holliday was nominated for three Emmy Awards and won the Golden Globe Award twice for Best Supporting Actress in a Television Series.

Her success on the show led CBS to create a spinoff series titled Flo, which followed her character’s return to Texas to run a saloon.

Although the spinoff lasted only two seasons, it further showcased Holliday’s talent and charisma.

Despite her television fame, Polly Holliday’s roots were deeply embedded in the theater, where she began her acting career and achieved some of her most celebrated work.

In 1990, she earned a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actress for her role in a revival of Tennessee Williams’s Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, starring alongside Charles Durning.

This nomination underscored her versatility and skill as a stage performer.

Holliday’s film career also included memorable roles, notably in the 1980s cult classic Gremlins, directed by Joe Dante.

In the film, she played the villainous Mrs.

Deagle, who meets a memorable demise at the hands of the mischievous gremlins.

This role remains one of the most iconic death scenes in 1980s cinema, demonstrating her ability to leave a lasting impression even in supporting roles.

Born on July 2, 1937, in Jasper, Alabama, Polly Holliday’s early life was marked by a passion for music.

She initially pursued piano studies at Alabama College for Women before shifting her focus to theater.

She joined the Asolo Repertory Theater in Sarasota, Florida, in 1962 while attending Florida State University, where she was studying music education.

Her decade-long tenure at Asolo was a formative period, honing her craft and preparing her for a move to New York City.

There, she made her Broadway debut in 1974 in the comedy All Over Town by Murray Schisgal, directed by Dustin Hoffman.

This collaboration with Hoffman would later come full circle when he sought her advice for his role in the 1982 film Tootsie.

In Tootsie, Hoffman portrayed a struggling actor who disguises himself as a woman to revive his career.

He consulted Holliday to develop his character’s Southern soap opera star persona, Dorothy Michaels, a testament to her expertise and influence in the acting community.

Polly Holliday’s extensive filmography includes appearances in critically acclaimed movies such as All the President’s Men, Mrs.

Doubtfire, and The Parent Trap.

On television, she took on diverse roles, including playing Tim Allen’s mother-in-law on Home Improvement and guest spots on series like Homicide: Life on the Street, The Golden Girls, and Amazing Stories.

Her last film credit was in 2010, appearing in Doug Liman’s political thriller Fair Game.

Even in later years, Holliday continued to bring depth and authenticity to her roles, maintaining her reputation as a consummate professional.

Throughout her career, Holliday was admired not only for her talent but also for her warmth and generosity.

Colleagues and fans alike remember her as a vibrant personality with a sharp wit and a kind heart.

Her influence extended beyond the screen and stage, inspiring many younger actors and actresses.

Despite her public life, Holliday was known to be private about her personal affairs.

She never married and left no immediate survivors.

Her passing marks the end of an era for many who grew up watching her performances and cherishing her characters.

The legacy Polly Holliday leaves behind is one of remarkable versatility and enduring charm.

From the bright lights of Broadway to the small screen and Hollywood films, she made a lasting impact on American entertainment.

Her signature role as Flo remains an iconic symbol of 1970s and 1980s television comedy, remembered for its humor, sass, and the unforgettable phrase “Kiss my grits!” This catchphrase alone has secured her place in television history.

In reflecting on her career, it is clear that Polly Holliday embodied the spirit of a dedicated actress who embraced every opportunity with passion and professionalism.

She broke ground for character actresses on television and stage, proving that supporting roles can be as memorable and influential as leading ones.

The entertainment industry mourns the loss of a true original.

Tributes from fans, fellow actors, and producers have poured in, celebrating her contributions and the joy she brought to audiences worldwide.

As the news of her death spreads, it serves as a reminder of the golden era of television sitcoms and the talented performers who shaped it.

Polly Holliday’s work continues to be celebrated through reruns, retrospectives, and the fond memories of those who loved her characters.

Her influence on comedy and drama alike remains apparent, inspiring new generations of actors to pursue their craft with the same dedication and heart.

Polly Holliday’s passing is a poignant moment to honor a life well-lived and a career that touched countless lives.

Her artistry and spirit will endure through the timeless characters she brought to life and the laughter she inspired.

In closing, Polly Holliday’s journey from a small-town Alabama girl to a beloved actress on stage and screen is a testament to her talent and determination.

She leaves behind a rich legacy of performances that continue to entertain and inspire.

Her memory will forever be cherished by fans and colleagues alike.

May she rest in peace, knowing she made a lasting difference in the world of entertainment.