Loni Anderson, beloved for her role as Jennifer Marlowe on WKRP in Cincinnati, passed away on August 3, 2025, just two days before her 80th birthday.
Her family and publicist confirmed she died in a Los Angeles hospital after a prolonged illness, asking for privacy during this difficult time.
Born August 5, 1945, in St. Paul, Minnesota, Anderson became a TV icon from 1978 to 1982,
earning two Emmy and three Golden Globe nominations. Her portrayal redefined the blonde stereotype by blending glamour with intelligence,
thanks in part to series creator Hugh Wilson who shaped her character as “the smartest person in the room.”
Known also as a sex symbol, Anderson embraced her career’s challenges with passion and never planned to retire, especially enjoying comedy roles.
She married four times, most notably to actor Burt Reynolds, with whom she had a son, Quinton. They divorced in 1994 but remained connected through
their child. Anderson later married Bob Flick in 2008. She is survived by Flick, her children Deidra and Quinton, grandchildren, and stepfamily.
Tributes poured in, including from actress Morgan Fairchild, who praised Anderson’s kindness and grace after their recent collaboration.
