Loni Anderson, the actress best known for her iconic role as Jennifer Marlowe on the sitcom “WKRP in Cincinnati,” passed away at the age of 79. Her publicist confirmed she died in a Los Angeles hospital after a prolonged illness. The news came just days before her 80th birthday.
Born on August 5, 1945, in St. Paul, Minnesota, Anderson’s journey to stardom began with a small part in the 1966 film “Nevada Smith.” She spent much of the 1970s with guest appearances on television shows like “S.W.A.T.” and “Police Woman” before landing her career-defining role on “WKRP in Cincinnati” in 1978.
As the intelligent and glamorous receptionist Jennifer Marlowe, Anderson defied the “dumb blonde” stereotype, showcasing a sharp mind and efficiency that often kept the chaotic radio station afloat. The role earned her two Emmy Award nominations and three Golden Globe nominations.
After “WKRP” ended its run in 1982, Anderson continued to work in television and film. She starred alongside Burt Reynolds in the 1983 comedy “Stroker Ace,” and the two later married in 1988. Their highly publicized relationship and messy divorce in 1994 were a frequent subject of tabloids. In her 1995 autobiography, “My Life in High Heels,” Anderson detailed their tumultuous marriage and her personal journey of survival. She and Reynolds had a son, Quinton.
Anderson was married four times. Her final marriage was to Bob Flick, a founding member of the folk group The Brothers Four, in 2008. In her later years, she remained active in her career, with her last role being in the 2023 TV movie “Ladies Of The 80s: A Divas Christmas.”
Throughout her life, Anderson was also an advocate for COPD awareness, a cause close to her heart as both of her parents had suffered from the disease. She is survived by her husband, Bob Flick, her daughter, Deidra, her son, Quinton, and several grandchildren and step-grandchildren.


