Remembering Alice Hirson: A Quiet Force in Television History
Some performers don’t chase the spotlight—they earn it slowly, through consistency, depth, and decades of meaningful work. Alice Hirson was one of those rare actors whose presence became familiar across generations, even if her name wasn’t always front and center.
When news of her passing emerged, it prompted a moment of reflection for fans who grew up watching her bring warmth and authenticity to the screen.
Alice Hirson passed away at the age of 95 from natural causes on Friday, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
She died at the Motion Picture and Television Country House and Hospital in Los Angeles. Born on March 10, 1929, in Brooklyn and raised on Long Island, Hirson built a career that stretched across television, film, and theater—leaving a subtle but enduring imprint on American entertainment.
Television audiences remember her best for her recurring and guest roles on some of the medium’s most iconic series. She appeared in 26 episodes of Dallas, becoming a familiar face during the show’s peak years. Full House fans fondly recall her as Claire Tanner, the Tanner family’s grandmother, in two memorable episodes that showcased her gentle screen presence.
One of her most culturally significant roles came on the ABC sitcom Ellen, where she portrayed Lois Morgan, Ellen DeGeneres’ on-screen mother, from 1994 to 1998. Hirson’s character played a meaningful part during DeGeneres’ groundbreaking coming-out storyline in 1997, placing Hirson within a pivotal moment in television history.
Her career extended far beyond these roles. Hirson made guest appearances on popular series such as Murphy Brown, Just Shoot Me!, and The Secret Life of the American Teenager, and she was a familiar presence in daytime television through various soap operas. On the big screen, her film work included roles in Private Benjamin, Revenge of the Nerds, and Being There.
Equally respected was her stage career. Hirson performed on Broadway in productions including Traveller Without Luggage, The Investigation, and Solitaire/Double Solitaire. Whether on stage or screen, she was known for her professionalism, versatility, and quiet command of every role she took on.
Conclusion
Alice Hirson’s legacy is not defined by a single role, but by a lifetime of performances that added depth and humanity to television, film, and theater. She brought sincerity to every character, no matter the size of the part, and in doing so earned the lasting appreciation of audiences and peers alike. Though she has taken her final bow, her work continues to live on—woven into the stories and memories of generations who welcomed her into their homes.