Polly Holliday’s Passing Confirmed on September 11, 2025
Today, September 11, 2025, Hollywood is mourning the loss of veteran actress Polly Holliday, who has died at the age of 88. Best remembered for her role as the sassy waitress Florence Jean “Flo” Castleberry on the hit sitcom Alice, Holliday leaves behind a legacy that shaped American television in the 1970s and 1980s. Her sharp wit and Southern charm made her a household name, and her famous line “Kiss my grits!” remains one of the most quoted catchphrases in TV history.
Who Was Polly Holliday?
Born on July 2, 1937, in Jasper, Alabama, Polly Dean Holliday grew up in the American South before venturing into acting. She trained in theater, performing in regional productions before making her way to television. While she appeared in several roles on stage and screen, it was Alice that turned her into a star. Her portrayal of Flo was bold, brash, and unapologetically funny, offering audiences a refreshing take on working-class women.
Alice: The Show That Defined an Era
The sitcom Alice, which aired from 1976 to 1985 on CBS, followed a single mother working at Mel’s Diner in Phoenix, Arizona. While the central character was Alice Hyatt (played by Linda Lavin), Holliday’s Flo quickly stole the spotlight. Her Southern drawl, biting one-liners, and colorful personality resonated with viewers nationwide. The diner setting became a cultural staple, and Flo became the breakout star.
“Kiss My Grits”: A Catchphrase That Stuck
Television in the 1970s and 1980s thrived on memorable catchphrases. For Holliday, it was the line “Kiss my grits!” that etched her name into pop culture history. Delivered with just the right mix of sass and charm, the phrase became so popular that it was referenced in other shows, quoted by celebrities, and even made its way into advertising campaigns. Flo’s words embodied the spirit of standing up for oneself, particularly for women working in male-dominated environments.
The Spin-Off: Flo’s Short-Lived Stardom
Holliday’s popularity on Alice was so immense that CBS launched a spin-off series, Flo, in 1980. The show followed Flo as she left Mel’s Diner to open a roadhouse in her hometown of Fort Worth, Texas. Although it premiered to strong ratings, the series struggled to maintain momentum and was canceled after just two seasons. Despite the short run, Flo reinforced Holliday’s place as one of TV’s most recognizable comedic actresses of her time.
A Career Beyond Flo
While the role of Flo defined her career, Holliday was not limited to a single character. She appeared in numerous TV shows and films over the decades. Some of her most notable roles included:
- Playing the mother in the hit movie Gremlins (1984).
- A guest role on Home Improvement as Jill Taylor’s mother.
- Performances in acclaimed theater productions, including on Broadway, where she received critical praise.
Her versatility allowed her to move between comedy and drama, and she was respected by colleagues for her professionalism and craft.
Tributes Pour in After Her Death
Following the announcement of her death, tributes have flooded social media and news outlets. Former co-stars, fellow actors, and fans are remembering Holliday for her warmth, humor, and groundbreaking work. A fellow Alice cast member described her as “a powerhouse on screen and a kind soul off it.” Younger generations, who discovered Alice through reruns and streaming platforms, are also posting clips of Flo’s best moments, proving that her legacy continues to resonate.
Why Polly Holliday Mattered
Polly Holliday’s work was more than just entertainment. She represented working-class women at a time when television often overlooked them. Her character was tough but lovable, unrefined yet relatable. She gave voice to a demographic that rarely saw itself portrayed with such honesty on screen. In many ways, Flo was a feminist icon before the term was widely used in pop culture.
The Cultural Impact of Alice and Flo
Alice was part of a wave of workplace comedies that shaped American television. Much like All in the Family or Laverne & Shirley, the show tackled both lighthearted and serious issues through humor. Flo’s presence amplified that mix by adding a strong female character who wasn’t afraid to speak her mind. Her popularity also reflected broader social shifts in the late 20th century, when audiences were hungry for more diverse and authentic portrayals of women.
Looking Back at Polly Holliday’s Awards and Recognition
Throughout her career, Holliday earned accolades for her performances. She won two Golden Globe Awards for her role as Flo and received several Emmy nominations. Even after leaving Alice, she was consistently praised by critics for bringing depth and humanity to her roles, whether in comedy or drama.
How Fans Remember Her Today
As news of her death spreads, fans are sharing personal memories. For many, Polly Holliday wasn’t just a TV star she was a part of their daily lives in the 1970s and 1980s. Families would gather around the television, laugh at Flo’s sharp comebacks, and repeat “Kiss my grits!” in their own kitchens. That connection between performer and audience is rare, and it’s why Holliday’s passing feels so personal to so many.
The Legacy of a Southern Star
Polly Holliday may have been born in a small Alabama town, but her influence stretched across America and beyond. She helped shape sitcom history, opened doors for women in comedy, and left behind a phrase that still makes people smile. As Hollywood says goodbye, it is clear that her contributions will not be forgotten.
Final Thoughts
On September 11, 2025, the world lost more than just an actress it lost a cultural touchstone. Polly Holliday’s career proves that a single character, delivered with authenticity and heart, can leave a lasting impact. Her voice, her laugh, and of course, her unforgettable line “Kiss my grits” will echo in television history for decades to come.
Polly Holliday is survived by extended family members and countless fans who will continue to celebrate her work. As reruns of Alice and Flo find new audiences, the actress who gave us one of the most memorable waitresses in TV history will live on.
