Loni Anderson: Iconic 'WKRP in Cincinnati' Star Passes at 79

Actress Loni Anderson, famed for her role on 'WKRP in Cincinnati' and marriage to Burt Reynolds, has passed away at 79. She defied stereotypes with her portrayal of a smart receptionist and faced a notable tabloid-covered divorce. Anderson died in a Los Angeles hospital after a prolonged illness.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Updated: 04-08-2025 18:31 IST | Created: 04-08-2025 18:31 IST
Loni Anderson: Iconic 'WKRP in Cincinnati' Star Passes at 79

Actress Loni Anderson, celebrated for her role as the glamorous yet astute receptionist on the television sitcom 'WKRP in Cincinnati,' has died at age 79. Her publicist confirmed that she passed away on Sunday, following an acute prolonged illness, at a hospital in Los Angeles.

Anderson received widespread acclaim for challenging workplace sexual stereotypes through her portrayal on 'WKRP in Cincinnati.' She was also well known for her high-profile marriage to actor Burt Reynolds in 1988 and their subsequent highly-publicized divorce six years later.

Her family has released a statement acknowledging her struggle with illness and commemorating her impactful career in entertainment and her role in redefining women's depiction in television sitcoms.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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