Alice Hirson, a talented actress known for her roles in iconic television series, has passed away at the age of 95. Hirson was best recognized for her portrayal of Mavis Anderson, the close friend of Miss Ellie Ewing, played by Barbara Bel Geddes, on the acclaimed series Dallas. She also played the mother of Ellen DeGeneres’ character on the groundbreaking sitcom Ellen, which was a significant milestone in television history.
Hirson’s death occurred on Friday due to natural causes at the Motion Picture & Television Country House and Hospital in Woodland Hills, where she had resided for about a year, as reported by her son, David Hirson.
Throughout her career, which spanned from 1969 to 1982, Hirson appeared in a variety of daytime soap operas, including The Edge of Night, Another World and its spinoff Somerset, One Life to Live, General Hospital, and Loving. On the big screen, she played Colonel Thornbush in the 1980 film Private Benjamin and the mother of Gilbert Lowe, portrayed by Anthony Edwards, in Revenge of the Nerds (1984).
Hirson made her mark on Dallas with her role in 26 episodes from 1982 to 1988, and her husband in real life, Stephen Elliott, played a lawyer on the show. Later, she became a familiar face on Ellen, appearing in 28 episodes during its run from 1994 to 1998. In a pivotal moment of the series, her character was oblivious to her daughter’s sexual orientation until the famous "Puppy Episode," which aired in April 1997, shortly after DeGeneres came out as gay.
Born Alice Corinne Thorsell in Brooklyn on March 10, 1929, Hirson grew up in West Hempstead, Long Island. She pursued acting at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, graduating in 1948. Early in her career, she gained attention in a touring production of On the Town.
In 1952, Hirson debuted on television with the anthology series Hallmark Hall of Fame, eventually marrying playwright Roger O. Hirson, with whom she collaborated in the arts. She made her Broadway debut in the 1964 production Traveller Without Luggage, returning to the stage for various productions into the 1970s.
She relocated to Los Angeles in 1976 and continued her television success with roles in the NBC sitcom Home Fires and as Jenny Jackson on 7th Heaven. Her extensive television guest appearances include shows like Maude, The Waltons, Family, and Murphy Brown, among others.
Hirson is survived by two sons, David and Christopher, as well as a grandson, Daniel. In a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, General Hospital star Chris McKenna honored her legacy, describing her as a "radiant soul" and "daytime legend." He recalled her final words: “It’s nice to have an audience,” reflecting her passion for acting and the joy she brought to those around her.
