Louise Lasser, the actress best known for her leading role in the satirical television series “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman,” has died at the age of 87. Her passing was confirmed on Monday by her friend Susan Charlotte in Manhattan.

Born April 11, 1939, in New York City to Sol Jay Lasser, a tax specialist, and Paula Lasser, a designer, Louise Lasser pursued an early interest in performance while attending Brandeis University. Although she studied political science, she was active in musicals and cabaret before leaving the university in her senior year to focus on acting.

Lasser’s career began quickly and successfully. Early in her career, she secured a replacement role for Barbra Streisand in the Broadway musical “I Can Get It for You Wholesale.” Despite this early break, she sought further training and studied under the renowned acting teacher Sanford Meisner, emphasizing discipline and the importance of fully developing one’s potential in her craft.

In addition to her theatrical work, Lasser became widely recognized as the ex-wife of filmmaker and comedian Woody Allen. The two met in 1962 during a double date and soon collaborated on several projects, including Allen’s unaired television pilot “The Laughmakers.” They were married from 1966 until 1970. During this time, Lasser appeared in several of Allen’s films such as “Take the Money and Run” (1969), “Bananas” (1971), and “Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex (But Were Afraid to Ask)” (1972). She also guest-starred on popular television shows including “The Bob Newhart Show” and “The Mary Tyler Moore Show.”

Lasser’s defining role came when television producer Norman Lear cast her as the lead in “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman,” a sharp parody of daytime soap operas. Lear has described Lasser as the only actress capable of bringing authenticity to the role. Despite the eventual success of the series, Lasser initially rejected the part five times, uncomfortable with the soap opera format. She later credited encouragement from friends and the prospect of steady work for changing her mind.

The show ran for approximately 18 months, during which Lasser appeared in 315 of the 325 episodes. “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman” garnered critical acclaim for its unique blend of satire and social commentary, and it remains a milestone in television history.

Lasser’s work spanned theater, film, and television, marked by a commitment to her craft and a nuanced approach to character. She is remembered both for her groundbreaking television role and for her contributions to the performing arts over several decades.