An actress known for memorable roles on the big and small screens will can now add suspected shoplifter to her resume.
According to E News, 77-year-old Lainie Kazan was arrested at a California supermarket on suspicion of stealing nearly $200 in groceries.
Police believe Kazan, who had a prominent role in “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” and its sequel, packed items into reusable bags inside a shopping cart at a Gelson’s in Los Angeles before bypassing the cashiers and walking out of the store without paying.
She was soon stopped by a supermarket employee and reported to law enforcement. She was handcuffed and taken into custody at the scene.
As TMZ reported, Kazan faces a charge of petty theft. Reports indicate she was released a short time later without a bail requirement.
One source told the outlet that she claimed not to have any money for the groceries.
Several fans expressed concern about both her financial and mental state after news of the arrest surfaced this week.
Lainie Kazan didn't shoplift clothing or jewels. She went and got food on Christmas Eve and had no money to pay for her food. That's heartbreaking. Somebody like Rita Wilson and Tom Hanks might want to check on her. https://t.co/1CeBe3O9Aw
— Karen Clark (@SparkleConnect) December 25, 2017
Authorities did not immediately provide further details about the arrest. As of the latest reports available, Kazan had not publicly responded to the incident.
The 77-year-old actress portrayed Maria, protagonist Toula’s mother in the “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” franchise. She has also appeared in films including “Don’t Mess with the Zohan” and on the ABC dramatic series “Desperate Housewives.”
[Featured image: Lainie Kazan/Associated Press]
