#SHOWBIZ: US actress Loni Anderson of 'WKRP In Cincinnati' fame dies at 79
According to an AP report, her death, which occurred in a Los Angeles hospital on Sunday after a prolonged illness, was confirmed by her publicist, Cheryl J. Kagan.
In a heartfelt statement, Anderson's family paid tribute to the late star: "We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our dear wife, mother, and grandmother. Loni will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her."
Anderson's iconic role on 'WKRP in Cincinnati' (1978–1982) earned her two Emmy and three Golden Globe nominations.
The show was set in a struggling radio station in Ohio, attempting to revitalise itself with a new rock music format.
Anderson's character, Jennifer Marlowe, was a sharp-witted and highly capable receptionist who often used her charm and savvy to keep the station from falling apart.
Despite her glamorous appearance, Jennifer was portrayed as the station's anchor of sanity and efficiency amidst the chaos created by her colleagues.
The cast also included Gary Sandy, Tim Reid, Howard Hesseman, Frank Bonner, and Jan Smithers.
Beyond her television career, Anderson also appeared on the big screen, notably starring alongside Burt Reynolds in the 1983 comedy film 'Stroker Ace.'
The pair's high-profile marriage in 1988 made them a constant presence in tabloids before they divorced in 1994.
Loni Anderson is survived by her husband, Bob Flick; her daughter, Deidra Hoffman, and son-in-law Charlie Hoffman; her son, Quinton Anderson Reynolds; grandchildren McKenzie and Megan Hoffman; and her stepson, Adam Flick, with his wife Helene, and step-grandchildren Felix and Maximilian.
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