Philip McKeon, Child Star of 'Alice,' Dies at 55

The actor played Tommy Hyatt on the sitcom from 1976-1985.

Philip McKeon, who played the son of Linda Lavin's title character on the CBS sitcom Alice, has died. He was 55.

McKeon died Tuesday morning in Texas after a long battle with an undisclosed illness, family spokesperson Jeff Ballard told The Hollywood Reporter in a statement.

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

The actor — and older brother of former Facts of Life star Nancy McKeon — played Tommy Hyatt on Alice from 1976-1985. The show was based on Martin Scorsese’s 1974 romantic comedy Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore, in which Alfred Lutter played Alice's (Ellen Burstyn) son. Lutter reprised the role in the pilot, but was subsequently replaced by McKeon.

His other credits included 1987's Return to Horror High and appearances on CHiPs, Fantasy Island and The Love Boat.

McKeon had spent the past several years hosting a radio show in Wimberly, Texas, where he moved to care for and be closer to his family. He previously worked in the news department at KFWB-AM in Los Angeles for 10 years.

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