Philip McKeon facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Philip Anthony McKeon
McKeon (c. 1976)
Born	(1964-11-11)November 11, 1964 Westbury, New York, U.S.
Died	December 10, 2019(2019-12-10) (aged 55) Wimberley, Texas, U.S.
Occupation	Actor print model radio personality
Years active	1966–2000
Relatives	Nancy McKeon (sister)

Philip Anthony McKeon (born November 11, 1964 – died December 10, 2019) was an American actor. He started acting when he was a child. He was famous for playing Tommy Hyatt on the TV show Alice. This show was a sitcom and ran from 1976 to 1985. Philip also worked in radio later in his life.

Early Life and Family Background

Philip McKeon was born in Westbury, New York. His parents were Barbara and Donald McKeon. His dad was a travel agent. Philip had a younger sister named Nancy McKeon. She also became a well-known actress. You might know her from the TV show The Facts of Life. Philip and Nancy are not related to actor Doug McKeon.

Philip began his career very young. He was only 4 years old. He started as a print model. His parents took him and Nancy to an audition. He appeared in magazines and newspapers. He also was in many television commercials. After modeling, he got parts in plays and movies. In 1975, Philip played baseball. He was in Little League Baseball in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

Acting Career Highlights

Philip McKeon got his big break in acting thanks to Linda Lavin. She saw him perform in a play called Medea and Jason in 1974. Linda thought he was very talented. She suggested him for the role of Tommy on the TV show Alice. He took over the role from another child actor.

The show Alice was based on a movie. The movie was called Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore. It came out in 1974. Ellen Burstyn won an Academy Award for her acting in the movie. Martin Scorsese directed the film.

After Alice finished in 1985, Philip kept acting sometimes. He appeared in movies like Sandman (1993) and Ghoulies IV (1994). He also worked behind the scenes. He produced or directed films. These included Teresa's Tattoo (1994), which starred his sister Nancy. He also worked on Murder in the First (1995) and The Young Unknowns (2000).

After the year 2000, Philip started a new career in radio. He worked in the news department at KFWB AM 980 in Los Angeles. Later, he co-hosted a morning radio show. It was called The Breakfast Taco. This show was on KWVH-LP 94.1FM in Wimberley, Texas.

Personal Life and Passing

Philip McKeon was very popular as a teenager. He was even called a teen idol in some magazines.

Philip passed away in Texas on December 10, 2019. He was 55 years old.

Film and Television Appearances