SB. Well-Known Actress From Dallas And Multiple Sitcoms Passed Away At 95

Alice Hirson, a respected actress whose career in film and television spanned over six decades, has passed away at the age of 95. Her death was confirmed by multiple reputable sources, including the Motion Picture and Television Fund, where she was a resident at the Motion Picture and Television Country House and Hospital in Los Angeles. She died of natural causes.

Born on March 10, 1929, in Brooklyn, New York, Hirson built an enduring career in American television, often portraying warm, relatable maternal figures. Best known for her roles in long-running series like Dallas and Full House, she leaves behind a legacy cherished by generations of television audiences.

Early Life and Acting Career

Alice Hirson grew up in West Hempstead on Long Island and began acting in the 1950s, initially working in theater and daytime soap operas. Her stage presence and expressive performances soon led her to television, where she steadily gained recognition for her supporting roles.

Throughout her early career, Hirson made numerous guest appearances on television and was known for her work in soap operas, including The Edge of Night, Another World, and One Life to Live. Her transition from daytime television to primetime roles was seamless, thanks to her versatility and natural screen presence.

Major Television Roles

Dallas (1982–1988)

Alice Hirson is widely remembered for her portrayal of Mavis Anderson in the popular CBS primetime soap opera Dallas. She appeared in 26 episodes from 1982 to 1988, playing the close friend of Miss Ellie Ewing, the matriarch of the Ewing family. Her role offered moments of emotional depth and grounded realism amid the show’s high drama and corporate intrigue.

Dallas was a cultural phenomenon during its run, known for iconic storylines and a large ensemble cast. Hirson’s contributions helped shape the show’s domestic and interpersonal dynamics, earning her a devoted fan base.

Source: IMDb – Alice Hirson’s Television Credits

Full House (1988)

In the late 1980s, Hirson appeared as Claire Tanner, the mother of Danny Tanner (played by Bob Saget), in Full House. Though her role was brief, she appeared in a memorable episode that explored themes of family support and grief following the passing of Danny’s wife. Her portrayal added emotional richness to the early tone of the series.

Full House went on to become one of the most beloved family sitcoms of the late 20th century, airing on ABC and gaining continued popularity through syndication and streaming platforms.

Role in Ellen (1994–1998)

Between 1994 and 1998, Alice Hirson had a recurring role as Lois Morgan, the mother of Ellen DeGeneres’s character in the ABC sitcom Ellen. Her most notable appearance came during the 1997 episode titled The Puppy Episode, in which the main character came out as gay—a groundbreaking moment for television at the time.

Hirson’s performance in the series reflected her ability to handle both comedy and serious subject matter with nuance and empathy, contributing to an episode that earned a Peabody Award and critical acclaim.

Source: The Peabody Awards – 1997 Peabody Recipients

Other Television Credits

Alice Hirson appeared in a wide array of popular television shows across multiple decades. Her guest-starring roles included appearances in:

• Murphy Brown
• Just Shoot Me!
• The Secret Life of the American Teenager
• 7th Heaven
• Family Law

She was also a regular in TV movies and holiday specials, showcasing her adaptability and broad acting range.

Film Appearances

While her primary focus was television, Hirson also acted in several notable films. Her credits include:

• Private Benjamin (1980), a comedy film starring Goldie Hawn
• Revenge of the Nerds IV: Nerds in Love (1994)
• Being Human (1994)
• The Pursuit of D.B. Cooper (1981)

These roles further demonstrated her ability to support major motion picture narratives with credibility and charm.

Source: Turner Classic Movies (TCM) – Alice Hirson Filmography

A Lasting Legacy in Television

Throughout her career, Alice Hirson earned praise not only for her on-screen talent but also for her professionalism and warmth on set. Her contributions to television reflected the evolution of female roles in media—from classic homemaker characters to more modern, complex portrayals of mothers, friends, and authority figures.

She worked alongside industry veterans and rising stars alike, always bringing a sense of authenticity to her performances.

Remembering Alice Hirson

Though she did not receive major award nominations during her career, Hirson’s work left a lasting impact on American entertainment. Her characters resonated with viewers because they felt real, relatable, and rooted in compassion—traits that defined her performances in both dramatic and comedic settings.

Her death at the Motion Picture and Television Country House and Hospital, a nonprofit facility that provides care for aging members of the entertainment industry, marks the end of a long and meaningful life dedicated to storytelling and performance.

Source: Motion Picture & Television Fund – Official Site

Conclusion

Alice Hirson’s passing marks the close of a remarkable chapter in television history. She built a career on thoughtful portrayals of everyday characters, bringing life and heart to the screen in a way that resonated across generations. Whether playing a loyal friend in Dallas, a loving mother in Full House, or a comedic presence in Ellen, she contributed to some of the most influential and beloved television moments of the last century.

Her memory will live on through her body of work, which continues to be appreciated by fans of classic and contemporary television alike. As audiences revisit her performances, they’ll find that Alice Hirson’s warmth, grace, and depth as an actress continue to shine.

Verified Sources:

• IMDb: Alice Hirson Filmography and Credits
• Peabody Awards: 1997 Award Winners
• TCM – Turner Classic Movies: Alice Hirson Film Roles
• Motion Picture & Television Fund: MPTF Official Website