Loni Anderson Dead at 79: WKRP in Cincinnati Star and Burt Reynolds’ Ex-Wife Passes After Health Battle

Loni Anderson, the beloved 1980s television icon best known for her role as Jennifer Marlowe on WKRP in Cincinnati, has died at the age of 79. The actress passed away peacefully in a Los Angeles hospital on Sunday, just days before what would have been her 80th birthday, following a prolonged illness.

Anderson’s death was confirmed by her longtime publicist, Cheryl J. Kagan, who shared the family’s heartfelt statement: “We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our dear wife, mother, and grandmother.”

Loni Anderson: Television’s Golden Girl and Cult Favorite of the 80s

Best known for her role as the glamorous yet competent receptionist on CBS’s WKRP in Cincinnati (1978–1982), Anderson’s character Jennifer Marlowe quickly became a cultural staple. Portraying a woman who used both beauty and intelligence to her advantage, she became a role model for female empowerment on television during a time of changing gender roles.

As Marlowe, she often saved the station from chaos, deflecting unnecessary calls and smoothing over workplace blunders with grace. Her performance earned her two Emmy Award nominations and three Golden Globe nominations, solidifying her as a staple of American television comedy.

A Hollywood Romance: Loni Anderson and Burt Reynolds

Off-screen, Anderson’s personal life was just as captivating. She was married to Hollywood superstar Burt Reynolds from 1988 to 1994. The couple starred together in the 1983 comedy Stroker Ace, which not only showcased their chemistry but also propelled their romance into the public eye. Their union, though glitzy, was tumultuous and became tabloid fodder for years.

In her 1995 autobiography, My Life in High Heels, Anderson opened up about their rocky marriage. She described it as “the trauma of my marriage to Burt” and emphasized her desire to portray “a woman who survives.” She candidly discussed her career, personal losses, and growth, offering readers a raw and unfiltered view of life behind the spotlight.

Anderson’s Career Beyond WKRP

Loni Anderson’s first film role came in 1966’s Nevada Smith, where she shared the screen with Steve McQueen. Throughout the 1970s, she made guest appearances on popular series such as S.W.A.T. and Police Woman, steadily building her reputation as a versatile actress.

Following the end of WKRP, she starred in other television projects including Easy Street, A Letter to Three Wives, and White Hot: The Mysterious Murder of Thelma Todd. Despite being mostly associated with television, Anderson’s radiant on-screen presence left a lasting impact across entertainment formats.

A Life Remembered: Family, Legacy, and Resilience

Anderson’s legacy extends beyond her screen work. She was a devoted family woman, survived by her husband Bob Flick, daughter Deidra, son-in-law Charlie Hoffman, son Quinton Anderson Reynolds (with Burt Reynolds), grandchildren McKenzie and Megan Hoffman, stepson Adam Flick, and step-grandchildren Felix and Maximilian.

Anderson was a four-time wife and a lifelong advocate for women’s empowerment, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, humor, and heart.

A private family service is planned at Hollywood Forever Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest near some of the industry’s most iconic figures.

Loni Anderson’s death marks the end of an era in television history. Her wit, charm, and unforgettable performances leave behind a vibrant legacy that continues to inspire fans and aspiring actors around the world.

You Must Know:

Who was Loni Anderson married to?
She was married four times, most notably to actor Burt Reynolds from 1988 until their divorce in 1994.

What was Loni Anderson famous for?
She is best known for her role as Jennifer Marlowe in WKRP in Cincinnati, a performance that earned her multiple award nominations.

Did Loni Anderson have children?
Yes, she had a daughter named Deidra and a son, Quinton Anderson Reynolds, adopted with Burt Reynolds.

When did Loni Anderson pass away?
Loni Anderson passed away on Sunday, August 3, 2025, just two days before her 80th birthday, following a prolonged illness.

Where is Loni Anderson buried?
A private service will be held at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery in Los Angeles.

What books did Loni Anderson write?
She authored the 1995 autobiography My Life in High Heels, where she shared her life experiences and personal growth.