Tony Award-winning actress Linda Lavin dies at 87

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Tony Award-winning actress, former Wilmington resident and champion of the arts Linda Lavin died on Sunday after a battle with lung cancer. 

Lavin was best known for her role in the sitcom “Alice,” and locally for her titular part in Driving Miss Daisy, the longest-running play in Wilmington’s history. 

Lavin was instrumental in advancing Wilmington’s arts community, founding the Red Barn Studio Theatre in 2005. 

Thalian Hall CEO Shane Fernando worked closely with Lavin during her time living in the Cape Fear, and describes her as a visionary. 

“People reach the bar that you set and she set the bar high; and she knew that everyone could reach for it,” he said. “She lit up a room, and she lit up our community, and I will always be grateful for that. Her light will continue to shine.” 

Lavin leaves behind her husband Steve Bakunas, a fellow actor and artist. 

Lavin was 87 years old.