Loni Anderson, popular 'WKRP in Cincinnati' Star, dies at 79 after prolonged illness

Loni Anderson, famed as Jennifer Marlowe on WKRP in Cincinnati, has died at 79. Her publicist confirmed her passing in Los Angeles after a long illness. Anderson's iconic role made her a household name, and her death marks the end of an era for fans of the beloved sitcom.

Anderson’s family shared their grief in a public statement: “We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our dear wife, mother and grandmother."

Loni Anderson, a Minnesota native, had a successful TV career, often portraying classic Hollywood figures. She played Jayne Mansfield in The Jayne Mansfield Story (1980) and Thelma Todd in White Hot (1991). From 1988-1990, she starred in TV movie remakes of Leave Her to Heaven, Sorry, Wrong Number, and Three Coins in the Fountain.

Starting her career, before WKRP in Cincinnati in 1978, Anderson appeared on shows like S.W.A.T. and Police Woman. She also auditioned for Three's Company, showcasing her versatility before her breakthrough role.

Starting off-screen, Anderson's personal life was often in the spotlight. She was married four times, including to Ross Bickell and Burt Reynolds. Her marriage to Reynolds, from 1988 to 1994, was highly publicized, and their divorce involved allegations of abuse and child support issues.

In 2008, she married Bob Flick, a founding member of the folk band The Brothers Four.

Anderson had two children: Deidra Hoffman, from her first marriage, and Quinton Anderson Reynolds, whom she adopted with Burt Reynolds. After Reynolds' death in 2018, Anderson and Quinton spoke to FOX News, “Quinton and I are extremely touched by the tremendous outpouring of love and support… He was a big part of my life for twelve years and Quinton’s father for thirty years. We will miss him and his great laugh."

On August 3, Anderson passed away at age 79 in a Los Angeles hospital after battling what her publicist, Cheryl J. Kagan, stated as a “prolonged illness.” Although the specific illness wasn't disclosed, Anderson was a lifelong advocate for COPD awareness.