Los Angeles, CA – Loni Anderson, the beloved actress whose portrayal of the glamorous and sharp-witted Jennifer Marlowe on the iconic 1970s sitcom “WKRP in Cincinnati” made her a household name, has passed away at the age of 79. Her longtime publicist confirmed that Anderson died on August 3, 2025, at a Los Angeles hospital following a prolonged illness, just two days before her 80th birthday. The cause of her death has now been revealed as metastatic uterine leiomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer.
Unveiling the Cause: A Rare and Aggressive Cancer
The official cause of death, as detailed in Anderson’s death certificate obtained by TMZ, was metastatic uterine leiomyosarcoma. According to the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD), this condition is an “extremely rare form of cancer” that originates in the smooth muscle tissue of the uterus. It is known for its aggressive nature, often spreading to other parts of the body, most notably the lungs and liver, which can lead to life-threatening complications. Her death certificate indicated no other contributing factors.
From Minnesota to the Spotlight: The Rise of Loni Anderson
Born Loni Kaye Anderson on August 5, 1945, in St. Paul, Minnesota, she was the daughter of Klaydon Carl Anderson, an environmental chemist, and Maxine Hazel Kallin, a model. Growing up, Anderson harbored dreams of acting and moved to Los Angeles in 1975 to pursue her career. She spent her early years in Hollywood taking on guest roles in various TV shows, including “The Love Boat” and “Three’s Company.” Her big break arrived in 1978 when she was cast as Jennifer Marlowe, the sultry receptionist at WKRP radio station. Anderson’s casting was famously influenced by a pin-up poster she had done, which captured the attention of the show’s creator, Hugh Wilson, who saw her as embodying both innocence and allure. Despite early perceptions, Anderson actively fought to ensure her character was more than just a sex symbol, insisting that Jennifer be portrayed as intelligent and capable. This approach transformed the role into a groundbreaking character for women on television, blending glamour with sharp wit and business acumen. For her performance, Anderson earned three Golden Globe nominations and two Emmy nominations, solidifying her status as a television icon.
A Diverse Career and Lasting Impact
Anderson’s career extended beyond “WKRP in Cincinnati.” She starred in the 1983 race car comedy “Stroker Ace,” which led to her meeting and subsequent high-profile marriage to co-star Burt Reynolds. She also graced the big screen in films like “All Dogs Go to Heaven” (voice role) and “3 Ninjas: High Noon at Mega Mountain,” and continued to appear in various TV series and movies throughout her career, including “Nurses” and “Sabrina the Teenage Witch.” In later years, she became an advocate for COPD awareness. Her presence on streaming platforms and reruns ensures her work continues to reach new audiences.
A Life Rich in Love and Family
Anderson’s personal life was as eventful as her professional one. She was married four times. Her first marriage was to Bruce Hasselberg (1964–1966), with whom she had a daughter, Deidra Hoffman. She later married actor Ross Bickell (1974–1981). Her marriage to Burt Reynolds (1988–1994) was a subject of intense media scrutiny, marked by public declarations of love and a tumultuous divorce. In 2008, Anderson found lasting companionship with musician Bob Flick, a founding member of the folk band The Brothers Four, whom she remained married to until her passing. She is survived by her husband, her daughter Deidra, her son Quinton Anderson Reynolds (whom she adopted with Burt Reynolds), and several grandchildren.
A Fond Farewell and Enduring Legacy
Anderson’s family released a statement expressing their heartbreak: “We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our dear wife, mother and grandmother.” Tributes have poured in from across the entertainment industry, with many remembering her warmth, wit, and resilience. Close friend and “I Dream of Jeannie” star Barbara Eden shared, “I feel very lonely now that she’s not here. She was just a very special, kind, sweet, good mother.” Loni Anderson’s legacy is multifaceted: a television trailblazer who redefined female characters, a captivating performer, and a woman who lived her life with grace and strength. Her iconic role as Jennifer Marlowe remains a cherished part of pop culture history, ensuring her star will continue to shine.
