Loni Anderson, known to many for her role as Jennifer Marlowe in the iconic show WKRP in Cincinnati, has sadly passed away at the age of 79 on Sunday.
According to Cheryl J. Kagan, Anderson’s publicist, her death was due to “an acute prolonged illness,” as reported by The Hollywood Reporter.
Her Impact on Television
Her work on WKRP in Cincinnati, which aired from 1978 until 1982, played a significant role in launching her career. The show not only made her a household name, but it also brought her two Emmy nominations and three nods for a Golden Globe.
After her breakthrough, Anderson appeared in several films such as A Night at the Roxbury, All Dogs Go to Heaven, and Stroker Ace, where she met her future husband, Burt Reynolds. The couple married in 1988 but later divorced in 1994.
Final Days and Tributes
Anderson departed on August 3 in a Los Angeles hospital, just a few days before she would have turned 80.
In a heartfelt statement from her family, they expressed their sorrow, stating, “We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother, and grandmother,” as confirmed by the Associated Press.
During a 2021 interview with Fox News, Anderson shared her thoughts on her reputation as a sex symbol during her prime. She revealed, “We all did posters at that time, and I thought about my grandchildren looking at them someday. I wanted them to know that I truly looked like that.” She rounded off her reflection by saying, “I am lucky to have played various roles, and being a sex symbol was just one part of my journey. I took on everything my career offered me.”
Reactions from Friends and Colleagues
Steve Sauer, who managed Anderson for thirty years, expressed his admiration, calling her “a class act. Beautiful, talented, and witty—a genuine joy to be around. She was the epitome of a working mom, balancing family and her career flawlessly. I’ll cherish our wonderful adventures together and miss her infectious laugh immensely.”
Barbara Eden, known for her role in I Dream of Jeannie, also took to X to pay tribute to Anderson. She shared her shock, writing, “The news broke that my dear friend Loni Anderson has passed. I am utterly stunned and heartsick. Our friendship spanned many years; news like this is incredibly hard to take. Loni had a unique talent, a brilliant sense of humor, and an exemplary work ethic. More than anything, she was a good person, and I am at a loss for words.”
Morgan Fairchild, who worked with Anderson recently, expressed her devastation via X, recalling the good times they shared, including Christmas movies and specials they did together. “She was such a sweet and gracious lady. Love and condolences to her family and friends. #RIPLoniAnderson”
Actor Robert Hays shared his sentiments on X as well, saying, “Today, my dear friend Loni Anderson passed away. She was not just talented; she was a wonderful wife, mother, and grandmother. Sending love and condolences to Bob, Deidra, Quintin, and all her grandchildren. Loni is now singing with the angels. God bless her.”
Loni Love added, “It’s very sad to hear about Loni Anderson’s passing. I grew up watching this Queen and was thrilled to meet her. My condolences to her family and her fans.”
Next Steps
So far, no information has been shared publicly about Anderson’s funeral arrangements.
She leaves behind her husband, Bob Flick, her daughter Deidra, son Quinton Anderson Reynolds, stepson Adam Flick, two granddaughters, and two step-grandchildren.
