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Alice was a popular television sitcom that aired between 1976 and 1985, serving as a spinoff to the successful film Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore. Set in a small diner located in Phoenix, Arizona, the series followed the lives of the staff and frequent customers of Mel's Diner. The show was created by Robert Getchell and is renowned for its sharp writing, witty humor, and unforgettable characters. The show was led by the talented Linda Lavin, who played Alice Hyatt, the titular character of the series. As a recent widow, Alice moves to Phoenix with her son Tommy to start a new life. She ends up working as a waitress at Mel's Diner to make ends meet, and soon befriends the other waitresses and customers that frequent the establishment. One of the standout characters on the show was Mel Sharples, the owner of Mel's Diner. Vic Tayback played the role of Mel, a gruff and no-nonsense character who had a soft spot for his employees. Though he sometimes came off as irritable and rough around the edges, Mel's heart was always in the right place. The other regular waitresses at Mel's Diner were played by Beth Howland and Polly Holliday. Howland played the shy and awkward Vera Louise Gorman, while Holliday portrayed the loud and boisterous Flo Castleberry. Fans of the show will remember Flo's famous catchphrase, "Kiss my grits!", which became a cultural phenomenon in the 1970s. Philip McKeon played the role of Tommy Hyatt, Alice's son. Tommy was a recurring character on the show, often providing comedic relief and lighthearted moments. Additionally, Diane Ladd played the role of Belle Dupree, a feisty and eccentric customer who often caused trouble at Mel's Diner. In later seasons, the show introduced new characters such as Jolene Hunnicutt, played by Celia Weston, and Elliot Novak, played by Charles Levin. Jolene was a sweet and innocent girl who worked as a truck stop waitress, while Elliot was a sarcastic and cynical cook who often clashed with Mel. Alice was known for its sharp writing and clever humor, which tackled a variety of social issues and topics in a lighthearted and relatable way. The show has been praised for its portrayal of working-class characters, and for its positive depiction of strong, independent women. Additionally, the show was one of the first to feature a divorced woman as its lead character, breaking new ground for television at the time. Overall, Alice was a beloved and iconic television series that has stood the test of time. The show's witty humor, memorable characters, and relatable storylines continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a true classic of the sitcom genre.