Alice Hirson, a cherished figure in the entertainment industry known primarily for her work on television, has died at the age of 95.
The actress's passing was confirmed by her son David Hirson, who stated that she died of natural causes at the Motion Picture & Television Country House and Hospital in Woodland Hills, California.
Hirson's death was announced on a Friday via The Hollywood Reporter, bringing an end to a storied career that spanned several decades and mediums.
While she is most recognized for her roles in popular television sitcoms, she was initially known as a stage actress. Her journey began in Brooklyn, New York, where she was born. Raised on Long Island, she was the daughter of a homemaker and an electrical engineer.
Alice Hirson’s passion for acting was nurtured from a young age. She pursued her craft by attending the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, graduating in 1948.
Her early career was rooted in the theater, where she made her mark on Broadway. She earned recognition for her performances in various productions, including "Traveller Without Luggage" in 1964, "The Investigation" in 1966, and "Solitaire/Double Solitaire" in 1971.
In 1952, she married playwright Roger O. Hirson, with whom she had two sons, David and Christopher. Their marriage, however, ended in divorce in the 1970s. Despite the end of her marriage, Hirson continued her professional journey undeterred.
The move to Los Angeles in 1976 marked a new chapter in her career. This period saw her transition into television, where she became a familiar face to many viewers.
Alice Hirson's television career took off as she appeared in a variety of popular soap operas. Her roles included portraying Stephanie Martin on "The Edge of Night," Marsha Davis on both "Another World" and "Somerset," and Eileen Siegel on "One Life to Live." She was also seen on "General Hospital" as Mrs. Van Gelder and on "Loving" as Dr. Lisa Helman.
One of Hirson’s memorable performances was as Lois Morgan, playing the mother to Ellen DeGeneres' character on the sitcom "Ellen" from 1994 to 1998. Her portrayal brought warmth and humor to the show, endearing her to audiences.
Additionally, Hirson appeared in the film "Revenge of the Nerds" (1984) as Gilbert Lowe's mother, further diversifying her acting repertoire. Her television career also featured significant roles in series like "Home Fires" and "7th Heaven" during the 1990s.
Among her many television credits, Hirson is remembered for her role on the hit show *Full House*. Although her part was not extensive, her appearances left a lasting impact, as did her continuous presence on televisions across the nation.
Moreover, from 1982 to 1988, she appeared in 26 episodes of the prime-time soap opera *Dallas*, showcasing her versatility and sustained appeal.
Reflecting on her career, her son David Hirson expressed that she considered herself primarily a stage actress. This perspective highlights the depth and range of her artistic abilities, which she brought with equal passion to her television roles.
Beyond her professional achievements, Alice Hirson led a rich family life. She is survived by her sons David and Christopher, and her grandson Daniel, who carry forward her legacy.
As the entertainment world mourns her passing, many have taken the time to celebrate her legacy and the integral roles she played in shaping television history. Alice was slated to celebrate her 96th birthday on March 10, a milestone that underscored her long and fruitful life in the arts.
