Loni Anderson, best known for her role as the glamorous and quick-witted Jennifer Marlowe on the classic sitcom WKRP in Cincinnati, has passed away. She was 79.
With her signature blonde hair, radiant smile, and impeccable comedic timing, Anderson became a staple of late-1970s and early-1980s television. But behind the iconic roles and red carpet appearances was a woman of tremendous depth, resilience, and compassion.
A Breakthrough Role That Defined an Era
Born in St. Paul, Minnesota, on August 5, 1946, Loni Anderson began her career in regional theater and small television parts before landing the role that would define her: the sultry yet savvy receptionist Jennifer Marlowe on WKRP in Cincinnati (1978–1982). At a time when many television roles for women leaned into stereotypes, Anderson brought intelligence, dignity, and unexpected warmth to her character. She portrayed Jennifer not as the ditzy blonde archetype but as a confident, capable woman who often outsmarted her male colleagues with poise and grace.
Her performance earned her two Emmy nominations and three Golden Globe nominations, and WKRP itself became a cult favorite, often praised for its ahead-of-its-time approach to workplace dynamics and ensemble storytelling.
On the Silver Screen
Anderson also made her mark in film, most notably starring opposite Burt Reynolds—her future husband—in the 1983 action-comedy Stroker Ace. Though the film received mixed reviews, her on-screen chemistry with Reynolds was undeniable. Their high-profile relationship became tabloid fodder, but Anderson consistently conducted herself with class, even during their tumultuous and public divorce.
She also starred in The Lonely Guy alongside Steve Martin and portrayed Jayne Mansfield in the 1980 television biopic The Jayne Mansfield Story, further demonstrating her range beyond comedy and glamor.
A Life of Advocacy and Heart
Beyond her acting career, Anderson was known for her deep commitment to philanthropy and advocacy. After her parents' diagnoses, she became a passionate spokesperson for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung health awareness, even though she was a lifelong non-smoker. She worked tirelessly with the American Lung Association and other health organizations to raise awareness and funding for research.
She was also active in supporting children’s literacy programs and domestic violence shelters, often quietly donating and visiting programs without the glare of cameras. Those close to her describe her as warm, genuine, and deeply empathetic—a far cry from the Hollywood stereotype.
In her 1995 memoir My Life in High Heels, Anderson opened up about her struggles behind the scenes, including her tumultuous marriage to Reynolds and her experiences with sexism in Hollywood. Her candor helped shift conversations around domestic abuse and female autonomy in the entertainment industry at a time when few were speaking publicly about such matters.
Her later years were spent largely out of the limelight, but Anderson never stopped being a champion for causes she believed in, continuing to advocate for women, children, and public health.
Loni Anderson’s legacy is not just defined by the roles she played, but by the humanity she brought to them—and the kindness she brought to those around her. As tributes pour in from former co-stars, fans, and the many lives she touched through her charity work, one thing is clear: she was far more than just a television icon. She was a trailblazer, a survivor, and a woman who used her platform to make the world a little better.
She is survived by her children and grandchildren, who have described her as “a guiding light full of grace, humor, and unwavering love.”
Below is a mix of her greatest moments on WKRP, where I remember her best & other movie roles.
Rest in peace, Loni. You made us laugh, you made us think, and you made a difference