Hollywood is mourning the loss of Loni Anderson, the vibrant television star from the 1970s and ’80s who is best known for her role as Jennifer Marlowe on WKRP in Cincinnati. Anderson passed away on August 3, 2025, in a Los Angeles hospital after a long illness. She was 79 years old and just two days away from turning 80.

Her Breakthrough Role & Enduring Legacy

Anderson’s portrayal of Jennifer Marlowe, a character who was sharp, confident, and smart, helped reshape the “blonde bombshell” image. This role earned her two Emmy nominations and three Golden Globe nods. WKRP in Cincinnati became a cultural landmark, and Anderson’s performance played a significant role in that. Beyond her sitcom fame, she also appeared in TV classics like The Jayne Mansfield Story, Melrose Place, and feature films such as Stroker Ace and A Night at the Roxbury. Her autobiography, My Life in High Heels, showcased her thoughtful and resilient nature on and off screen.

Tributes from Friends and Fans

Tributes came in from her friends and former co-stars. Morgan Fairchild remembered Anderson as “sweet and gracious.” Barbara Eden praised her sharp wit and generous spirit. Others, including Tim Reid, Valerie Perrine, and Tori Spelling, highlighted her kindness, professionalism, and the deep friendships she built. Fans worldwide reflected on how much Jennifer Marlowe and Anderson’s warmth meant to them.

Personal Life & Philanthropy

Born on August 5, 1945, in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Anderson began her acting career in musical theater as a child. She spent years in guest roles during the 1970s before landing her breakthrough TV part in 1978. She was married four times, including a high-profile marriage to Burt Reynolds from 1988 to 1994. Later, she married musician Bob Flick in 2008. She is survived by Flick, her daughter Deidra Hoffman, son Quinton Reynolds, and several grandchildren. Off-screen, Anderson became a vocal advocate for COPD awareness, motivated in part by her own health challenges. Her activism brought attention and support to many families impacted by the disease. She brought life experience and authenticity to projects like Ladies of the ’80s: A Divas Christmas, reaffirming her status as a beloved television figure.

At-a-Glance: Life of Loni Anderson

Final Thoughts

Loni Anderson will be remembered not just for the sparkle and glamour of her onscreen roles, but also for the grace and warmth she brought to every project. Her legacy spans decades of entertainment, and her impact on fans and peers alike remains deeply felt.