Philip McKeon, who starred on TV's 'Alice' as a child, dies at 55
TV fans and friends are mourning the loss of Philip McKeon. The actor and producer has died at age 55.
The former child star who is best known for playing wisecracking teen Tommy Hyatt on "Alice" from 1976-85, died in Texas after a battling a long illness. Family spokesperson Jeff Ballard confirmed the news with USA TODAY.
“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.”
After "Alice," McKeon had several other acting and producing roles and worked in the News Department at KFWB News 98 in Los Angeles for 10 years. In the last few years, he hosted a radio show in Wemberly, Texas.
He is survived by his mother, Barbara, and his sister, "The Facts of Life" actress Nancy McKeon.
McKeon was remembered on social media by colleague Charlie Sheen. The two worked together on an episode of NBC's "Amazing Stories."
"Shared some wonderful moments in the 'trenches' with Phil McKeon many moons ago. over the past few decades, he was always a perfect gentleman and an ebullient spirit," he tweeted. "r.i.p. young man. much much too soon, you cut out. xox"
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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Philip McKeon, child star on TV's 'Alice,' dies at 55