Remembering Loni Anderson
Loni Anderson, renowned for her role as a savvy receptionist on the iconic TV show “WKRP in Cincinnati,” passed away on Sunday, just a few days shy of her 80th birthday. She died in a Los Angeles hospital after a prolonged illness, as confirmed by her longtime publicist, Cheryl J. Kagan.
In a heartfelt statement, Anderson’s family expressed their sorrow: “We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our dear wife, mother and grandmother.”
Her Iconic Role on ‘WKRP’
“WKRP in Cincinnati,” which aired from 1978 to 1982, centered on a struggling radio station in Ohio trying to revamp itself with a rock music format. The talented cast included actors such as Gary Sandy, Tim Reid, Howard Hesseman, Frank Bonner, and Jan Smithers, with Anderson playing the alluring and intelligent Jennifer Marlowe. In her role as the receptionist, Jennifer often used her charm to redirect unwanted business calls for her boss, Mr. Carlson, ensuring the station continued to operate amid various challenges.
This memorable performance earned Anderson two Emmy nominations and three Golden Globe nominations.
Life Beyond the Screen
In addition to her television fame, Anderson starred alongside Burt Reynolds in the 1983 comedy “Stroker Ace.” The pair were married and became prominent figures in tabloids before their divorce in 1994. Reflecting on their relationship, Anderson once stated that their son, Quinton Reynolds, was “the best decision that we ever made in our entire relationship.” During the unveiling of a bronze bust at Reynolds’ grave site in 2021, she shared insights into their tumultuous marriage, acknowledging the challenges of maintaining a relationship in the spotlight.
Anderson chronicled her life experiences in her 1995 autobiography, “My Life in High Heels,” which she described as a story of a woman’s growth and survival. “If you’re going to write about yourself, you have to do it warts and all,” she said in an interview about her book.
A Multifaceted Career
Born on August 5, 1945, in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Anderson’s early experiences shaped her career. Her father worked as an environmental chemist, and her mother was a model. Anderson began her acting journey with a minor role in the 1966 film “Nevada Smith,” headlined by Steve McQueen. She gained early recognition in the 1970s with guest appearances on “S.W.A.T.” and “Police Woman.” Following “WKRP,” she appeared in the short-lived series “Easy Street” and starred in various made-for-TV movies, including “A Letter to Three Wives” and “White Hot: The Mysterious Murder of Thelma Todd.”
In 2023, she joined Linda Gray, Donna Mills, Morgan Fairchild, and Nicollette Sheridan in Lifetime’s “Ladies Of The 80s: A Divas Christmas.”
Tributes and Surviving Family
Morgan Fairchild expressed her condolences on social media, stating, “I am heartbroken to hear of the passing of the wonderful Loni Anderson! The sweetest, most gracious lady! I’m just devastated to hear this.”
Loni Anderson is survived by her fourth husband, Bob Flick; her daughter Deidra and son-in-law Charlie Hoffman; her son Quinton Anderson Reynolds; grandchildren McKenzie and Megan Hoffman; stepson Adam Flick and his wife Helene; along with step-grandchildren Felix and Maximilian. A private family service is planned at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, as announced by Kagan.
