Loni Anderson, the beloved actress who captured audiences’ hearts as the intelligent and glamorous receptionist Jennifer Marlowe on the hit television comedy WKRP in Cincinnati, has died at the age of 79. Anderson passed away on Sunday at a Los Angeles hospital following what her representatives described as a prolonged illness.
According to CNN, the actress died just days before what would have been her 80th birthday, marking the end of a career that spanned decades and left an indelible mark on American television comedy. Her longtime publicist, Cheryl J. Kagan, confirmed the news of Anderson’s passing to the media.
“We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our dear wife, mother, and grandmother,” Anderson’s family said in a statement released following her death. The family’s words reflected the deep personal loss felt by those closest to the actress, who had battled health issues in her final years.
Anderson’s breakthrough role defined 1980s television comedy
WKRP in Cincinnati aired from 1978 to 1982 and became a defining show of the era, part of the golden age of 1980s entertainment that continues to resonate with audiences today, chronicling the misadventures of a struggling Ohio radio station attempting to reinvent itself with rock music. The series featured an ensemble cast that included Gary Sandy, Tim Reid, Howard Hesseman, Frank Bonner, and Jan Smithers, with Anderson playing the station’s resourceful receptionist.
Actress Loni Anderson passed away last Sunday. Did you know that in 1988 she filmed a 1988 made-for-TV movie “Whisper Kill” in Watsonville and featured scenes from the Old Miramar bar, the City Plaza, Main Street, St. Patrick’s, Taylor’s Alley, and the old bank on the bottom… pic.twitter.com/IuxsZOlaEG
— Luis Alejo(@SupervisorAlejo) August 5, 2025
Anderson’s character, Jennifer Marlowe, was far more than the typical blonde stereotype often seen on television at the time. As the station’s receptionist, the character used her intelligence and charm to handle difficult business calls for her boss, Mr. Carlson, while her efficiency frequently kept the entire operation running despite the incompetence of others around her. The role showcased Anderson’s ability to balance comedy with genuine character development.
The performance earned Anderson significant recognition from the entertainment industry, garnering her two Emmy Award nominations and three Golden Globe nominations. Her portrayal of Jennifer Marlowe became iconic, helping to establish her as one of television’s most memorable comedy actresses of the 1980s. Beyond television, Anderson also appeared on the big screen, notably starring alongside Burt Reynolds in the 1983 comedy Stroker Ace.Anderson and Reynolds later married, becoming frequent subjects of tabloid coverage before their divorce in 1994.
Anderson leaves behind 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, and step-grandchildren Felix and Maximilian. Her passing marks the loss of an actress who helped define television comedy during a pivotal period. As the entertainment world continues to mourn the loss of beloved celebrities, Anderson’s contributions to comedy will be remembered alongside other legendary performers in American entertainment history.
