The entertainment world is mourning the loss of a true television pioneer and a staple of the American living room.
Alice Hirson, a veteran actress whose career served as a bridge between the Golden Age of Hollywood and the modern sitcom era, has passed away at the age of 95. According to reports from
The Hollywood Reporter, the esteemed performer died of natural causes at the Motion Picture and Television Country House and Hospital in Los Angeles, surrounded by the legacy of an industry she helped shape for over half a century.
Born in Brooklyn on March 10, 1929, Hirson’s journey from a Long Island childhood to the bright lights of Broadway and
Hollywood was marked by a rare versatility. She wasn’t just an actress; she was a dependable presence who could transition seamlessly between high-stakes drama and lighthearted comedy.
While many actors find a niche, Hirson found a home in whatever genre she touched. On the iconic series Dallas, she appeared in 26
episodes, bringing depth to the sweeping Texas saga. To a different generation, she was a comforting figure of nostalgia, remembered fondly as Claire Tanner, the grandmother of the Tanner clan on the hit show Full House.
However, it was perhaps her work on the ABC sitcom Ellen that cemented her place in television history.
From 1994 to 1998, Hirson portrayed Lois Morgan, the mother of Ellen DeGeneres’ title character. She occupied this role during a transformative moment in American culture: the historic 1997 “Puppy Episode,” where DeGeneres’ character—and DeGeneres herself—came out as gay. Hirson’s performance provided
a necessary groundedness to the groundbreaking storyline, reflecting the complexities of a mother navigating a changing world with her daughter. It was a role that required both comedic timing and emotional honesty, qualities Hirson possessed in spades.
Beyond her recurring roles, Hirson was a prolific guest star, appearing in a “who’s who” of legendary television programs.
From the sharp wit of Murphy Brown and Just Shoot Me! to the modern drama of The Secret Life of the American Teenager, she was a master of the character arc.
She also left her mark on the silver screen, appearing in beloved films such as the comedy classic Private Benjamin, the cult favorite Revenge of the Nerds, and the critically acclaimed Being There.
Her talent was not confined to the screen; Hirson was a respected figure on Broadway, where she brought her craft to productions like
Traveller Without Luggage and The Investigation. This stage foundation gave her a gravitas that radiated through her television work, making even her briefest guest appearances feel significant.
Alice Hirson’s passing marks the conclusion of a remarkably steady and influential career. She belonged to a generation of performers who prioritized the craft of storytelling over the flash of celebrity, leaving behind a body of work that continues to play on screens around the world. As fans revisit the episodes of
Full House or the drama of Dallas, they will find Hirson there—a steady, talented presence who reminded us that whether as a grandmother, a mother, or a friend, she was always a master of her art. She leaves behind a legacy of resilience, grace, and an indelible footprint on the history of American performance.
