Loni Anderson, Iconic ‘WKRP in Cincinnati’ Star, Passes Away at 79: Emmy Nominee and Burt Reynolds Co-Star Dies After Prolonged Illness

Noted actress Loni Anderson, famously portraying a charismatic and resourceful receptionist in the hit 1970s television comedy “WKRP in Cincinnati,” passed away on Sunday, only a few days before her 80th birthday.

According to longtime publicist Cheryl J. Kagan, Anderson succumbed to a lengthy illness at a Los Angeles hospital.

In a poignant statement, her family confirmed the news, expressing their profound grief: “We mourn the loss of our cherished wife, mother, and grandmother.”

“WKRP in Cincinnati,” which ran from 1978 to 1982, revolved around a struggling Ohio radio station attempting to transform itself by embracing rock music. The ensemble cast included Gary Sandy, Tim Reid, Howard Hesseman, Frank Bonner, Jan Smithers, and Anderson as the captivating and intellectually astute Jennifer Marlowe.

In her role as the station’s receptionist, Jennifer wielded her charm and allure to skillfully fend off unwanted business calls for Mr. Carlson, often single-handedly keeping the station afloat amidst colleagues’ ineptitude.

Her compelling performance earned her two Emmy Award nominations and three Golden Globe nods.

Post “WKRP in Cincinnati,” Anderson shared the silver screen with Burt Reynolds in the 1983 comedy “Stroker Ace.” The pair later married, becoming tabloid mainstays before their divorce in 1994.

Anderson leaves behind her husband Bob Flick, daughter Deidra and son-in-law Charlie Hoffman, son Quinton Anderson Reynolds, grandchildren McKenzie and Megan Hoffman, stepson Adam Flick and wife Helene, and step-grandchildren Felix and Maximilian.