Loni Anderson, star of “WKRP in Cincinnati,” dies at 79 after long illness
Star of the 1980s hit “WKRP in Cincinnati”, Loni Anderson has died. A publicist for the family said Anderson died at a Los Angeles hospital following a “prolonged illness.”
She would have been 80 years old on Tuesday, Aug.5.
“We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our dear wife, mother and grandmother,” Anderson’s family said in a statement.
Anderson was recognized with two Emmy Award nominations and three Golden Globe nominations for her role as Jennifer Marlowe on the popular sitcom.
She married her “Stroker Ace” co-star, Burt Reynolds, in 1983. The two divorced in 1994.
Anderson’s closest friends shared their sadness on social media.
“The news just came through that my dear friend Loni Anderson has passed,” actor Barbara Eden posted on X. “Like many, I am absolutely stunned and heartbroken. Our friendship has spanned many years, and news like this is never easy to hear or accept.”
Actor Morgan Fairchild shared her sympathies as well :“#OnMyWalk to memories of lovely Loni Anderson, one of the genuinely nicest ladies I’ve ever worked with, on set of our Christmas movie with Donna Mills. We had so much fun on this! She will be greatly missed!”
Anderson is survived by her husband Bob Flick, daughter Deidra and son-in law Charlie Hoffman, son Quinton Anderson Reynolds, grandchildren McKenzie and Megan Hoffman, stepson Adam Flick and his wife Helene, step-grandchildren Felix and Maximilian.
According to Anderson’s publicist, a private family service is planned at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery.
Ella Rae Greene, Editor In Chief
