Polly Holliday, 'Alice' Star Known for "Kiss My Grits," Dies at 88
Polly Holliday, the actress celebrated for her role as the sassy waitress Flo in the hit sitcom "Alice," has died at the age of 88. She passed away on Tuesday, September 9, at her home in Manhattan. Holliday was also a notable stage actress and appeared in several popular films.
A Breakout Role on 'Alice'
Holliday's character, Florence Jean Castleberry, became a fan favorite on "Alice," which debuted on CBS in August 1976. Flo, a gum-chewing, Southern diner waitress, was known for her red hair (a wig) and her memorable catchphrase, "Kiss my grits." The character was loosely based on Diane Ladd's portrayal in Martin Scorsese's 1974 film "Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore." Holliday earned three Emmy nominations for her portrayal of Flo.
"Kiss My Grits" Origin Story
Speaking to PEOPLE in 1980, Holliday revealed that the inspiration for Flo came from her childhood summers spent traveling with her father, a trucker. She recalled, "We'd eat at truck stops, and there would always be a waitress like Flo with a joke ready. The men would say all kinds of risque things to her, but it was understood that it wasn't serious, just a way to make everybody's day happier."
Beyond 'Alice': A Versatile Career
While Holliday is best remembered for "Alice," she also had a successful career in film and on stage. She appeared in movies such as "Gremlins," "The Parent Trap," and "Mrs. Doubtfire." In 1990, she received a Tony Award nomination for her performance in "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof". She won a Saturn Award for 1984’s Gremlins.
Early Life and Education
Born in Jasper, Alabama, in 1937, Polly Holliday initially pursued a career in music, graduating from Alabama State College for Women (now the University of Montevallo) with a degree in piano. She later studied at Florida State University before transitioning to acting. She was discovered by Dustin Hoffman who helped her land her Broadway debut.
Later Career and Legacy
After leaving "Alice," Holliday joined the cast of "Private Benjamin" and made guest appearances on shows like "The Golden Girls" and "Home Improvement." Her agent, Dennis Aspland, confirmed that her death was thought to be a result of pneumonia. Linda Lavin, who played Alice, passed away less than a year before. Polly Holliday leaves behind a legacy as a talented actress who brought joy to audiences through her memorable performances.
Key Roles and Appearances
- Alice (1976-1980): As Flo, the gum-chewing waitress.
- Flo (1980-1981): Spin-off series.
- The Parent Trap: Notable film role.
- Mrs. Doubtfire: Another memorable film appearance.
- Gremlins: Won a Saturn Award.
- Cat on a Hot Tin Roof: Tony nomination.
