Polly Holliday, an acclaimed actor known for popularizing the catchphrase “Kiss my grits!” as a gum-chewing waitress on the CBS sitcom Alice, has passed away at the age of 88. Her theatrical agent, Dennis Aspland, confirmed that she died at her residence in New York on Tuesday. Holliday was the last surviving main cast member of Alice, with Linda Lavin, who portrayed the lead role, having passed away the previous year.
The TV series Alice aired from 1976 to 1985 and was a comedic adaptation of the 1974 film Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore, which earned Ellen Burstyn an Oscar for her performance as the titular character. Holliday gained significant popularity from her role, leading to a short-lived spin-off titled Flo in 1980, which lasted for only 29 episodes.
Throughout her career, Holliday received four Golden Globe nominations, winning one in 1980 for her role in Alice, and garnered four Emmy Award nominations—three for Alice and one for Flo. Despite her association with the iconic “Kiss my grits!” line, Holliday clarified that it was a Hollywood creation rather than a regional expression, though she felt a connection to her character Flo.
Apart from her TV success, Holliday also showcased her talent on Broadway, earning a Tony nomination for her role opposite Kathleen Turner in a 1990 revival of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. She appeared in various TV shows and movies, such as playing Betty White’s blind sister in Golden Girls and featuring in films like The Client and All the President’s Men.
Her Broadway repertoire included performances in productions like All Over Town in 1974 directed by Dustin Hoffman, Arsenic and Old Lace in 1986 with Jean Stapleton and Abe Vigoda, and a revival of Picnic in 1994 alongside Kyle Chandler. Holliday’s diverse roles also extended to playing memorable characters like Mrs. Deagle in Gremlins and Tim Allen’s mother-in-law on Home Improvement.
Polly Holliday’s versatile acting career showcased her talent on stage, screen, and television, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
