Popular American actress Loni Anderson, known for her role as Jennifer Marlowe, a receptionist in the CBS sitcom WKRP in Cincinnati, passed away at 79. The actress passed away on Sunday, August 3, just days before her 80th birthday, which is on August 5, 2025. Her family shared the news:
“We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our dear wife, mother and grandmother.”
Loni’s passing was also confirmed by her long-time publicist, who also stated that Loni died at a Los Angeles hospital following a “prolonged” illness.
Loni had a successful career, but her role as the Blonde receptionist Jennifer was her most successful, earning her fame and wealth. Loni’s wealth skyrocketed after her divorce from actor Burt Reynolds, who had to continue paying the actress $15,000 monthly in spousal support. The actress was also active in real estate, buying and reselling mansions for a high profit. According to Celebrity Net Worth, Loni Anderson was worth $12 million.
More details on Loni Anderson
Loni Anderson was born as Loni Kaye Anderson in Saint Paul, Minnesota, U.S. She made her acting debut in the 1966 film Nevada Smith. She got her big break in 1978 when she landed her most famous acting role as the blonde receptionist Jennifer. In a 2020 interview with Studio 10, Loni spoke about the role:
“I liked the show but didn't like the role, so I refused. I went in and sat on my little soapbox and said, ‘I don’t want to play this part because she’s just here to deliver messages and is window dressing.’ Then Hugh Wilson said to me, ‘Well, how would you do it?’ … He said, ‘Let’s make her look like Lana Turner and be the smartest person in the room. '”
Other works of Loni include Vigilante Force, Stroker Ace, The Lonely Guy, The Magnificent Magical Magnet of Santa Mesa, The Fantastic Funnies, My Mother's Secret Life, A Letter to Three Wives, White Hot: The Mysterious Murder of Thelma Todd, Blondie & Dagwood: Second Wedding Workou, Too Good to be True, and The Price She Paid.
Over the course of her career, Anderson received nominations for three Golden Globe awards and two Emmy awards.
Read more: TV actress Loni Anderson known for "WKRP in Cincinnati" dies at 79
Loni Anderson is survived by her fourth husband, Bob Flick, her daughter Deidra, her son Quinton, and her grandchildren.
Read more: Who was Kelly? Donnie Wahlberg and Jenny McCarthy give tribute to their late fan
Love movies? Try our Box Office Game and Movie Grid Game to test your film knowledge and have some fun!