TV star Loni Anderson passes away at 79 after long illness

Loni Anderson dies at 79

Loni Anderson, the beloved American actress best known for her role as the glamorous receptionist Jennifer Marlowe on the classic sitcom WKRP in Cincinnati, passed away on Sunday at the age of 79.

The news was confirmed by the Associated Press, with her publicist, Cheryl J. Kagan, stating that Anderson died in a Los Angeles hospital following a prolonged illness.

In a heartfelt statement, her family expressed their sorrow: “We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our dear wife, mother and grandmother.”

Anderson’s life, both on and off the screen, captivated fans for decades. Her personal journey included four marriages, each marking significant chapters in her life. Her first marriage to Bruce Hasselberg lasted from 1964 to 1966, followed by a union with actor Ross Bickell from 1974 to 1981.

However, it was her third marriage, to Hollywood star Burt Reynolds, that attracted the most public attention. Married from 1988 to 1994, their relationship ended on a sour note, with Anderson alleging domestic abuse and inconsistent child support payments.

In 2008, Anderson found lasting companionship with Bob Flick, a founding member of the folk music group The Brothers Four. The couple remained together until her passing.

She was the mother of two children. Her daughter, Deidra Hoffman, born during her first marriage, works as a school administrator in California. Anderson was known for standing by Deidra through her diagnosis with multiple sclerosis, often speaking publicly about her daughter's strength. Her son, Quinton Anderson Reynolds, was adopted during her marriage to Burt Reynolds. Born in 1988, Quinton maintained a close relationship with both parents.

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Following Reynolds' death in 2018, Anderson and Quinton released a joint statement: “Quinton and I are extremely touched by the tremendous outpouring of love and support from friends and family throughout the world..."

As of 2023, Anderson’s net worth was estimated between $12 million and $18 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth — a testament to her enduring success in Hollywood.

(With Inputs: AP)