Loni Anderson, the acclaimed actress best known for her role as Jennifer Marlowe on the beloved television series WKRP in Cincinnati, passed away on Sunday at the age of 79 due to a prolonged illness, just days before her 80th birthday. Her longtime publicist, Cheryl J. Kagan, confirmed the news, which was met with heartache from her family, who expressed their sorrow at the loss of a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother. Anderson’s performance as the intelligent and charming receptionist at a struggling Ohio radio station garnered her significant recognition, cementing her status as a television icon during the show’s run from 1978 to 1982.
Born in St. Paul, Minnesota, to an environmental chemist and a model, Anderson’s path to stardom began with a small role in the 1966 film Nevada Smith. In the following decade, she made guest appearances on popular TV series, including S.W.A.T. and Police Woman, before achieving nationwide acclaim on WKRP in Cincinnati. The character of Jennifer Marlowe was notable for balancing beauty with intelligence, often compensating for the shortcomings of her coworkers. This role earned Anderson two nominations for Emmy Awards and three nominations for Golden Globe Awards while establishing her as a formidable talent in the entertainment industry.
Following WKRP, Anderson continued to thrive in her career, taking on roles in the comedy series Easy Street and participating in various television movies, such as A Letter to Three Wives and White Hot: The Mysterious Murder of Thelma Todd. Even into her later years, she remained actively involved in the industry, appearing in the 2023 Lifetime movie Ladies of the 80s: A Divas Christmas, showcasing her enduring appeal and connection to her roots in television.
Anderson’s personal life attracted its fair share of media scrutiny, particularly her marriage to actor Burt Reynolds. The couple met while filming Stroker Ace in 1983 and married in 1988, often making headlines before their eventual divorce in 1994. Their son, Quinton Reynolds, was a central figure in Anderson’s life, and she often reflected on the trials of managing personal relationships under public scrutiny. In her autobiography, My Life in High Heels, she candidly documented her journey of survival and personal growth intertwined with her relationship with Reynolds. Throughout her life, Anderson experienced four marriages, with her final union being with musician Bob Flick in 2008.
In the wake of her passing, tributes poured in from friends and colleagues. Actress Morgan Fairchild honored Anderson on social media, describing her as "the sweetest, most gracious lady." The outpouring of love and respect for Anderson highlights the impact she had not only on the screen but also on those who knew her personally. She is survived by her husband, Bob Flick, her daughter Deidra and son-in-law Charlie Hoffman, son Quinton Anderson Reynolds, and several grandchildren, among other family members.
A private family service will be held at Hollywood Forever Cemetery to honor Anderson’s memory. As fans and family mourn the loss of a beloved figure, they celebrate her contributions to television and her lasting legacy as an actress who exemplified both beauty and intelligence. Loni Anderson’s talent and charm will be remembered by many, ensuring her place in the hearts of audiences and her colleagues for years to come.
