Philip McKeon, Child Star On the 80’s Sitcom ‘Alice,’ Dies At 55

Philip McKeon, who was known for his role as a child actor on Alice, has died at 55.

The family spokesman, Jeff Ballard, confirmed that McKeon died on Tuesday in Texas after battling a longtime illness.

“We are all beyond heartbroken and devastated over Phil’s passing,” Ballard said in a statement. “His wonderful sense of humor, kindness and loyalty will be remembered by all who crossed his path in life.”

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McKeon acted in the role of Tommy Hyatt in Alice from 1976 to 1985, and his most recent acting role was in the video Ghoulies IV, which was released in 1994. His other acting credits include the 1987 slasher film Return to Horror High and appearances in CHiPs, Fantasy Island and The Love Boat.

Following his acting career, he spent ten years working in the news department of a Los Angeles radio station. Later on, to be closer to his family, he moved to the Central Texas Hill Country town of Wimberley, where he also hosted his radio show.

Back in November, Philip’s younger sister, Nancy McKeon, who was playing Jo on the NBC sitcom The Facts of Life, posted a photo with his brother on Instagram for his birthday, and wrote a heartwarming caption, “a huge happy birthday to my big brother !!
It’s been a tough time lately… but as we’ve always said…we’ll get through it together…
love you Dude….and as always… our humble thanks to all our veterans.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/B4vfth0HEh1/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

McKeon is survived by his mother Barbara and sister, Nancy McKeon.