The entertainment world is in mourning following the recent passing of beloved TV and Broadway icon Linda Lavin, who left an indelible mark on the industry with her remarkable talent, wit, and generosity of spirit. Lavin, who had been battling lung cancer, passed away on December 29th at the age of 87, leaving her colleagues, friends, and fans stunned and saddened by the news.
As tributes poured in from across the industry, one of Lavin’s closest friends and former co-stars, Patricia Heaton, took to social media to share her heartfelt condolences and fond memories of their time together. Heaton, who starred alongside Lavin in the TV series Room for Two, remembered her dear friend and colleague with great affection, recalling the joy and laughter they shared on set.
Patricia Heaton pays tribute to the late Linda Lavin
Heaton’s tribute was a celebration of Lavin’s life and legacy, highlighting the profound impact she had on her friends, colleagues, and the entertainment industry as a whole. Taking to X, the 66-year-old conveyed her shock and sadness at the sudden loss of the veteran actress, describing her death as “totally unexpected” and leaving her with a deep sense of loss. She also noted that she will undoubtedly miss her dear friend and mentor, whose passing has left a void in her life that can never be filled.
Heaton also reminisced about a recent dinner she had with Lavin in Los Angeles, just a couple of months prior to her passing. She explained that despite her advanced age, the late actress was still very sharp, funny, and energetic, just like she had always been. This encounter left a lasting impression on Heaton, who was struck by Lavin’s remarkable vitality and zest for life, even in her final days.
In another video that she shared alongside her tribute post, Heaton spoke fondly of her time working with Lavin, describing her as a “legend” and a “mentor” who had a profound impact on her life and career. She remembered Lavin as a guardian angel who looked out for her, taught her valuable lessons about acting and life, and remained a close friend over the years.
Her memories of Lavin were undoubtedly shaped by their time together on the set of Room for Two, which ran from 1992 to 1993, during which they shared many memorable moments and forged a lasting bond.
The two actresses had worked together on the TV series from 1992 to 1993, with Heaton playing the role of Edie Kurland, Lavin’s onscreen daughter, an experience not only marked one of Heaton’s early major roles in television but also laid the foundation for a lasting and meaningful friendship.
More of Linda Lavin’s colleagues pay emotional tributes to her
Lavin’s passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes and condolences from across the entertainment industry. Many of her colleagues and friends have taken to social media to share their own memories and stories about the beloved actress, celebrating her remarkable life, talent, and legacy.
One of the many heartfelt tributes came from actor Joe Mantegna, who shared a photo with Lavin on X. Mantegna’s message conveyed the deep affection and respect he has for Lavin, describing her as a rare and precious friend who had become like family to him.
Playwright Paul Rudnick also paid tribute to Lavin, praising her as a “star in every medium” and a “pure theatrical genius.” His words highlighted Lavin’s remarkable talent, versatility, and dedication to her craft, which had earned her the admiration and adoration of audiences and peers alike.
Actor Steve Hayes also joined the chorus of tributes, celebrating Lavin as a “brilliant Broadway & TV star” with “incredible comic timing.” He was full of praise for the late actress’ wisdom, wit, and wonderful spirit, which had brought joy and laughter to countless people around the world.