Vic Tayback
Actor
About Vic Tayback
Vic Tayback was born in Brooklyn, New York, and began his acting career in the early 1960s with one of his first notable roles in 'Five Minutes to Live' (1961). He appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout his career, but his most iconic role was as Mel Sharples, the gruff but lovable diner owner in 'Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore' (1974) and the subsequent television series 'Alice' (1976-1985). His distinctive appearance and voice made him a recognizable character actor in Hollywood for decades. Tayback also appeared in films like 'The Sting' (1973), 'Papillon' (1973), and 'Bullitt' (1968). He was nominated for a Golden Globe for his role in 'Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore' and won two Emmy Awards for his portrayal of Mel on the television series. His career spanned nearly three decades before his death from a heart attack in 1990 at the age of 60.
The Craft
On Screen
Tayback was known for his distinctive gruff, no-nonsense demeanor that often concealed a softer side. He specialized in playing blue-collar characters, authority figures, and tough guys with hearts of gold. His deep voice and imposing physical presence made him memorable in supporting roles, and he had a natural ability to balance comedy with drama. Tayback's performances were characterized by their authenticity and relatability, often bringing depth to characters that could have been one-dimensional in lesser hands.
Milestones
- Breakthrough role in 'Five Minutes to Live' (1961)
- Supporting roles in major films like 'Bullitt' (1968), 'The Sting' (1973), and 'Papillon' (1973)
- Iconic role as Mel Sharples in 'Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore' (1974)
- Long-running role in TV series 'Alice' (1976-1985)
- Won two Emmy Awards for 'Alice'
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series (1979)
- Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series (1980)
Nominated
- Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor – Motion Picture (1975) for 'Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore'
- Multiple Emmy nominations for 'Alice'
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Vic Tayback's portrayal of Mel Sharples became an iconic character in American popular culture, representing the archetype of the tough but fair working-class boss. The character was so beloved that it led to the television series 'Alice,' which ran for nine seasons and made Tayback a household name. His work helped normalize complex, multi-dimensional working-class characters on television, moving beyond simple stereotypes. Tayback's success also demonstrated the viability of character actors transitioning successfully between film and television during a period when this was becoming increasingly common.
Lasting Legacy
Vic Tayback left a lasting legacy as one of television's most recognizable character actors. His creation of Mel Sharples influenced how blue-collar characters were portrayed in subsequent sitcoms and dramas. The success of 'Alice' helped pave the way for workplace-centered ensemble shows that followed. Tayback's ability to balance comedy with genuine emotion set a standard for supporting actors in television comedy. His film work, while less celebrated than his television roles, contributed to several classic films of the 1970s. Today, he is remembered as an actor who brought authenticity and depth to every role he played, regardless of size.
Who They Inspired
Tayback influenced subsequent generations of character actors who specialized in playing tough-but-lovable figures. His work demonstrated the importance of creating fully realized supporting characters that could resonate with audiences. Many actors who followed in playing similar roles in workplace comedies owe a debt to Tayback's groundbreaking work on 'Alice.' His success also helped establish television as a viable medium for serious character work during a period when film was still considered more prestigious.
Off Screen
Tayback was married to Sheila MacRae from 1955 to 1960, and they had one son, Christopher. He later married Anita Gores in 1964, and they remained married until his death. Tayback was known as a private person who kept his personal life out of the spotlight. He died unexpectedly of a heart attack on May 25, 1990, at his home in Burbank, California.
Education
Studied acting in New York before moving to Hollywood. Specific educational institutions not widely documented.
Family
- Sheila MacRae (1955-1960)
- Anita Gores (1964-1990)
Did You Know?
- 'Five Minutes to Live' (1961) was one of his earliest film roles and was later retitled 'Door-to-Door Maniac' for home video release.
- The character of Mel Sharples was so popular that Tayback was the only actor from the original film 'Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore' to reprise his role in the television series.
- Tayback won two consecutive Emmy Awards for his work on 'Alice' in 1979 and 1980.
- Before acting, Tayback served in the U.S. Army.
- His son, Christopher Tayback, also became an actor.
- Tayback was a talented musician and could play multiple instruments.
- Despite his tough-guy image, he was known among co-workers as a kind and generous person.
- He appeared in over 100 television shows throughout his career.
- Tayback was of Lebanese descent.
- He was a founding member of the Actors Studio in Los Angeles.
In Their Own Words
As Mel Sharples: 'Kiss my grits!' - This became the character's catchphrase on 'Alice.'
On acting: 'I never play a character, I play a person. Everyone has their own story, their own reasons for doing what they do.'
On his success with 'Alice': 'I never expected Mel to become so popular. I just tried to make him real.'
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Vic Tayback?
Vic Tayback was an American character actor best known for his role as Mel Sharples in the film 'Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore' and the subsequent television series 'Alice.' With a career spanning nearly three decades, he became one of television's most recognizable supporting actors, known for his distinctive gruff demeanor and deep voice.
What films is Vic Tayback best known for?
Tayback is best known for 'Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore' (1974), but also appeared in notable films such as 'The Sting' (1973), 'Papillon' (1973), 'Bullitt' (1968), and one of his earliest roles, 'Five Minutes to Live' (1961).
When was Vic Tayback born and when did he die?
Vic Tayback was born on January 6, 1930, in Brooklyn, New York, and died on May 25, 1990, at the age of 60 in Burbank, California, from a heart attack.
What awards did Vic Tayback win?
Vic Tayback won two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series (1979 and 1980) for his role in 'Alice.' He was also nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor for 'Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore' in 1975.
What was Vic Tayback's acting style?
Tayback specialized in playing blue-collar characters and tough guys with hidden depths. His acting style was characterized by authenticity and relatability, often bringing complexity to roles that could have been one-dimensional. He had a natural ability to balance comedy with genuine emotion, making his characters memorable and beloved.
Learn More
Films
1 film
