Actress Loni Anderson, known for her starring role in ‘WKRP in Cincinnati,’ passed away at the age of 79. Her cause of death has been revealed as metastatic uterine leiomyosarcoma, according to a death certificate obtained by TMZ. The rare form of cancer was listed as the sole cause of her death, with no other contributing factors noted in the official records.
Anderson’s publicist confirmed her death on August 3 at a Los Angeles hospital, following a prolonged illness. Her family stated that she was surrounded by her loved ones at the time of her passing. The actress, who was also known for her roles in ‘The Love Boat’ and ‘Three’s Company,’ had a long and successful career in television, with her portrayal of Jennifer Marlowe in ‘WKRP in Cincinnati’ becoming a defining moment in her acting career.
Her longtime friend and fellow actress, Barbara Eden, expressed her grief over the passing of Anderson, describing her as a ‘very special, kind, sweet, good mother.’ Eden, who played the role of Jeannie in ‘I Dream of Jeannie,’ shared stories of their early meeting while filming a special for comedian Bob Hope, highlighting Anderson’s sense of humor and warmth. The two maintained a close friendship over the years, with Eden recalling how Anderson’s advice helped her make a fashion choice for a special appearance.
Anderson, who was born in St. Paul, Minnesota, moved to Hollywood in 1975 to pursue her acting career. She discussed her journey from a young actress to a successful television star in an interview with Fox News Digital, where she reflected on her transition from the stage to the screen and the challenges of being a ‘sex symbol.’ Despite the label, Anderson embraced her role in the entertainment industry, believing that her career allowed her to explore a wide range of characters.
Her legacy is remembered not only for her acting roles but also for her personal life, including her adoption of her son, Quinton Anderson Reynolds, in 1988 with her then-husband, actor Burt Reynolds. The actress’s family expressed their sorrow and shared how she was a devoted mother and grandmother, with her daughter being a school principal and her son being described as adorable. Anderson’s family described her as the heart of the family, emphasizing her kindness and compassion in everything she did.
As the entertainment industry mourns the loss of a beloved star, the news of Anderson’s passing brings attention to the ongoing challenges of rare diseases and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. Her story, while personal, highlights the impact of such conditions on individuals and families, further underscoring the need for greater awareness and support for those affected by similar health issues.