Alice (American TV series)

Alice is an American sitcom that aired on CBS from August 31, 1976, to March 19, 1985. The series was based on the 1974 film Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore. The show was created by Robert Getchell and produced by Warner Bros. Television.

Premise

The series follows the life of Alice Hyatt, a widow and aspiring singer, who moves with her young son to Phoenix, Arizona in search of a new life. She takes a job as a waitress at Mel's Diner, a small roadside restaurant owned by the gruff but lovable Mel Sharples.

Characters

Main Characters

• Alice Hyatt (Linda Lavin) - The protagonist, a strong-willed and independent woman who dreams of becoming a professional singer.
• Mel Sharples (Vic Tayback) - The owner of Mel's Diner, known for his grumpy demeanor and "Kiss my grits!" catchphrase.
• Vera Louise Gorman (Beth Howland) - A fellow waitress, known for her ditzy personality and sweet nature.
• Florence Jean "Flo" Castleberry (Polly Holliday) - A sassy waitress with a Southern drawl, famous for her catchphrase "Kiss my grits!"
• Tommy Hyatt (Philip McKeon) - Alice's teenage son, who often finds himself in humorous situations.

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Title card of Alice

Recurring Characters

• Jolene Hunnicutt (Celia Weston) - A waitress who replaces Flo, known for her Southern charm.
• Earl Hicks (Dave Madden) - A regular customer at the diner.
• Henry Beesmeyer (Marvin Kaplan) - A telephone repairman and another regular at the diner.

Production

Alice was filmed in front of a live studio audience at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, California. The show was known for its comedic portrayal of working-class life and its focus on female empowerment.

Theme Song

The theme song, "There's a New Girl in Town," was performed by Linda Lavin. It was updated each season to reflect Alice's evolving life and career.

Episodes

The series ran for nine seasons, with a total of 202 episodes. Each episode typically revolved around the comedic interactions between the staff and customers of Mel's Diner.

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Linda Lavin, Celia Weston, and Beth Howland in Alice

Cultural Impact

Alice was praised for its portrayal of a single mother striving for a better life. The character of Flo became a cultural icon, leading to a spin-off series, Flo.

Legacy

The show remains a beloved classic, often remembered for its humor and heartwarming moments. It has been syndicated on various networks and streaming platforms, allowing new generations to enjoy the series.

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The cast of Alice in 1976

Related Pages

• Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore
• Flo (TV series)
• List of American television series

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Mel's Diner in Phoenix, Arizona