Loni Anderson, Beloved Star of WKRP in Cincinnati, Passes Away at 79

The entertainment world is reeling from the heartbreaking news of Loni Anderson’s passing on August 3, 2025, just days shy of her 80th birthday. Best known for her iconic role as the glamorous and quick-witted receptionist Jennifer Marlowe on the CBS sitcom WKRP in Cincinnati, Anderson died in a Los Angeles hospital following a prolonged illness, as confirmed by her longtime publicist, Cheryl J. Kagan. Her family shared their grief in a statement: “We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our dear wife, mother, and grandmother.” While the specifics of her illness remain private, reports suggest Anderson battled chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a condition she had long advocated for due to her parents’ struggles with the disease. This revelation has left fans devastated, as Anderson’s vibrant legacy and trailblazing contributions to television continue to resonate across generations.

Born Loni Kaye Anderson on August 5, 1945, in St. Paul, Minnesota, she grew up in a middle-class family, the daughter of an environmental chemist and a former model. From an early age, Anderson displayed a passion for performing, eventually studying at the University of Minnesota and taking on local theater roles. Her screen career began with a small part in the 1966 film Nevada Smith, starring Steve McQueen, but it was her casting as Jennifer Marlowe in 1978 that catapulted her to stardom. The sitcom, which aired from 1978 to 1982, followed the misadventures of a struggling Ohio radio station transitioning to a rock format. Anderson’s portrayal of Jennifer, a character who combined stunning beauty with sharp intelligence, redefined the archetype of the “blonde bombshell.” Refusing to be mere window dressing, Jennifer was often the smartest person in the room, deftly managing the chaos of her quirky colleagues with charm and efficiency. The role earned Anderson two Emmy nominations and three Golden Globe nominations, cementing her as a television icon.

Beyond WKRP in Cincinnati, Anderson’s career spanned over six decades, with more than 60 acting credits. She starred in TV movies like The Jayne Mansfield Story (1980), opposite a young Arnold Schwarzenegger, and White Hot: The Mysterious Murder of Thelma Todd (1991), showcasing her versatility in portraying complex Hollywood figures. Her television work included guest appearances on shows like S.W.A.T., Police Woman, Sabrina, the Teenage Witch, and So NoTORIous, as well as leading roles in short-lived series such as Easy Street and Partners in Crime alongside Lynda Carter. In 2023, Anderson delighted fans with a role in Lifetime’s Ladies of the ’80s: A Divas Christmas, sharing the screen with Morgan Fairchild, Linda Gray, Donna Mills, and Nicollette Sheridan. Her enduring presence in the industry was a testament to her talent and resilience.

Anderson’s personal life, particularly her high-profile marriage to Burt Reynolds, often made headlines. The couple met while filming the 1983 comedy Stroker Ace, married in 1988, and adopted a son, Quinton. Their tumultuous divorce in 1994 was widely covered by the tabloids, but Anderson later spoke of reconciliation, noting in 2019, “We were friends first and friends last.” Her fourth marriage, to musician Bob Flick in 2008, brought her lasting happiness. She is survived by Flick, her daughter Deidra Hoffman, son Quinton Anderson Reynolds, stepson Adam Flick, and several grandchildren.

The outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues underscores Anderson’s profound impact. Morgan Fairchild, her co-star in Ladies of the ’80s, wrote on X, “I am heartbroken to hear of the passing of the wonderful Loni Anderson! The sweetest, most gracious lady!” Barbara Eden, a longtime friend, called her “a real talent with razor-sharp wit.” Anderson’s advocacy for COPD awareness, inspired by her parents’ battles, added depth to her legacy, as she worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the disease, which affects millions worldwide.

As fans revisit WKRP in Cincinnati and her other works, Loni Anderson’s contributions to television remain undeniable. Her portrayal of Jennifer Marlowe broke stereotypes, proving that beauty and intelligence could coexist powerfully on screen. Her signature blonde hair, bright smile, and impeccable fashion sense made her a cultural icon, but it was her warmth, professionalism, and trailblazing spirit that truly defined her. Though her passing leaves a void, Anderson’s legacy will live on in the laughter and inspiration she brought to millions.