Barbara Eden leads tributes to Loni Anderson, ‘WKRP in Cincinnati' star
Anderson died over the weekend at the age of 79, just days before what would have been her 80th birthday. Her death was confirmed Sunday, Aug. 3, by longtime publicist Cheryl J. Kagan, who said the actress died following 'a prolonged illness.'
Barbara Eden, 93, led the remembrances with a personal message posted on Instagram. The 'I Dream of Jeannie' star and San Francisco Conservatory of Music alum described Anderson as a 'darling lady and a genuinely good person.'
'Like many, I am absolutely stunned and heartbroken,' Eden wrote in the caption of a photo featuring the two friends. 'She was a real talent, with razor smart wit and a glowing sense of humor… but, even more than that, she had an impeccable work ethic.'
Eden added, 'Loni, you were one in a trillion, my friend, and even a trillion more.'
Anderson starred on 'WKRP in Cincinnati' from 1978 to 1982, earning critical acclaim for her portrayal of a savvy, self-possessed radio receptionist who challenged the era's television stereotypes. The role earned her two Emmy nominations and three Golden Globe nods, cementing her as one of the most recognizable faces on television.
Former co-stars and colleagues added their own tributes.
Tim Reid, who played DJ Venus Flytrap on 'WKRP,' called her 'one of the dearest friends I've had in my life's journey. Such a wonderful woman.' Actress Morgan Fairchild remembered her as 'the sweetest, most gracious lady.' Tori Spelling, who portrayed her daughter on the series 'So Notorious,' credited Anderson with leaving a 'special imprint on my heart, soul, and very being.'
'When they say 'don't meet your heroes,' they weren't talking about Loni Anderson,' Spelling added. 'She was everything and more to everyone.'
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