Loni Anderson, best known for her iconic role as the glamorous receptionist Jennifer Marlowe on WKRP in Cincinnati, passed away on Sunday at a Los Angeles hospital after battling a long illness. Her death came just days before her 80th birthday, her publicist Cheryl J. Kagan confirmed.
Born on August 5, 1945, in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Anderson began her acting journey in the 1970s, appearing in popular TV series such as S.W.A.T., The Love Boat, and Fantasy Island. Her breakthrough arrived in 1978 with WKRP in Cincinnati, where her portrayal of the confident and intelligent Jennifer defied traditional stereotypes and earned her nominations for both Emmy and Golden Globe awards.
The beloved sitcom, centered around the quirky staff of a struggling radio station, gained a loyal following for its wit and social insight. Anderson’s acting career continued after WKRP, with notable roles in shows like Partners in Crime and Nurses, as well as films including Stroker Ace, in which she starred opposite her former husband Burt Reynolds.
In later years, Anderson became a passionate advocate for COPD awareness and wrote the memoir My Life in High Heels. She leaves behind a legacy of grace, talent, and strength—both on screen and off.