Loni Anderson, beloved WKRP in Cincinnati star, dies at 79 after illness. Emmy-nominated actress remembered for iconic TV role and vibrant career.
Celebrated Actress Passes Away in Los Angeles
Loni Anderson, the charismatic television actress best known for her role as Jennifer Marlowe in the 1970s and ‘80s sitcom WKRP in Cincinnati, died Sunday at age 79 in Los Angeles. Her passing comes just days ahead of what would have been her 80th birthday, following a prolonged illness, confirmed her publicist Cheryl J. Kagan.
Remembered for an Iconic Role
Anderson became a household name through her portrayal of a smart, stylish, and savvy receptionist at a struggling Ohio radio station. Her performance as Jennifer Marlowe on WKRP in Cincinnati earned her two Emmy Award nominations and three Golden Globe nods. The sitcom aired from 1978 to 1982 and became a cult classic, revered for its sharp writing and ensemble cast.
A Life in the Spotlight
Born August 5, 1945, in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Anderson was the daughter of a chemist and a model. She made her screen debut in 1966 with a minor role in Nevada Smith starring Steve McQueen. Over the years, she became a familiar face on television, appearing in shows like S.W.A.T., Police Woman, and later leading roles in Easy Street and several TV movies.
Her career continued into recent years, with a co-starring role in Lifetime’s 2023 special Ladies of the ’80s: A Divas Christmas, alongside Linda Gray and Morgan Fairchild.
Personal Life Marked by Public Interest
Anderson’s high-profile marriage to actor Burt Reynolds in the 1980s attracted significant media attention. Though their relationship ended in 1994, she later described their adopted son Quinton as “the best decision that we ever made in our entire relationship.” She candidly reflected on the ups and downs of fame and personal growth in her 1995 autobiography My Life in High Heels.
She married four times, most recently to musician Bob Flick in 2008.
Tributes and Final Arrangements
The actress is survived by her husband Bob Flick, daughter Deidra, son Quinton, and two grandchildren. A private family service is planned at Hollywood Forever Cemetery, according to her publicist.
Tributes have poured in from across the entertainment industry. Actress Morgan Fairchild wrote, “The sweetest, most gracious lady! I’m just devastated to hear this.”
Legacy of a Trailblazer
Loni Anderson’s legacy lies not just in her glamorous image but in her portrayal of women who were intelligent, independent, and unapologetically ambitious. Her work helped reshape how women were portrayed on television and inspired a generation of performers.
Canadian fans, many of whom grew up watching WKRP in Cincinnati on national networks, remember her as a TV legend whose humor and heart transcended borders.
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