Philip McKeon, the former child actor who played the son of Alice on the popular sitcom ‘Alice’, died on December 10, 2019, at the age of 55. He had been battling a long illness that was not disclosed to the public. His death was confirmed by his family spokesperson, who said that they were “beyond heartbroken and devastated” by his passing.
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Who was Philip McKeon?
Philip McKeon was born on November 11, 1964, in Westbury, New York. He started his career as a child model, appearing in magazines, newspapers, and commercials. He also acted in some stage and film productions.
His big break came when he was cast as Tommy Hyatt, the son of the title character on ‘Alice’, a comedy series based on the film ‘Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore’. He starred in the show from 1976 to 1985, alongside Linda Lavin, Polly Holliday, and Beth Howland.
He was also a baseball player who played with Benoit Benjamin in Little League Baseball in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.
What did he do after ‘Alice’?
After ‘Alice’ ended, McKeon continued to act in some movies and TV shows, such as ‘Return to Horror High’, ‘Favorite Son’, ‘Red Surf’, and ‘976-EVIL II’. He also worked behind the scenes as a producer and director of films like ‘Teresa’s Tattoo’, ‘Murder in the First’, and ‘The Young Unknowns’.
He later switched to radio, working as a news reporter at KFWB AM 980 in Los Angeles and as a co-host of a morning show called ‘The Breakfast Taco’ on KWVH-LP 94.1FM in Wimberley, Texas.
He was also known as a teen idol who appeared in several magazines.
How did he die?
McKeon died on December 10, 2019, in a Texas hospital after a long battle with an undisclosed illness. His family did not reveal the details of his condition or the cause of his death. They only said that he had been ill for a long time and that they were grateful for the love and support they received from his fans and friends.
Some speculated that he might have been gay, since he never married or had children. However, there was no evidence to support this claim. He was not involved in any scandals or controversies during his life.
He is survived by his sister Nancy McKeon, who is also an actress best known for her role as Jo Polniaczek on ‘The Facts of Life’. She paid tribute to her brother on social media, saying that he was “the most wonderful brother” she could ask for.
Why is he remembered?
Philip McKeon is remembered as a talented and charming actor who made millions of people laugh and smile with his role as Tommy on ‘Alice’. He was also a versatile and creative person who explored different fields of entertainment and media. He left a lasting impression on the industry and his fans.
He was also a kind and loyal person who cared about his family and friends. He had a great sense of humor and a friendly personality. He was loved by many people who mourned his loss.
According to The Hollywood Reporter , Linda Lavin, who played his mother on ‘Alice’, said that he was “a good soul” who “will be forever remembered”.
