Loni Anderson, popular 1980s hit actress, dies

Los Angeles: Days before turning 80, Loni Anderson, who portrayed the strong receptionist of a faltering radio station in the popular television sitcom “WKRP in Cincinnati,” passed away on Sunday.

According to her longtime publicist, Cheryl J. Kagan, Anderson passed away at a hospital in Los Angeles after a “prolonged” illness.

In a statement, Anderson’s family said, “We are devastated to announce the passing of our dear wife, mother, and grandmother.”

Set at a failing Ohio radio station attempting to rebuild itself with rock music, “WKRP in Cincinnati” ran from 1978 to 1982. In addition to Anderson as the seductive and astute Jennifer Marlowe, the ensemble included Tim Reid, Gary Sandy, Jan Smithers, Frank Bonner, and Howard Hesseman.

Jennifer, the beautiful and high-heeled receptionist at the station, utilized her sex appeal to divert unwelcome business calls for Mr. Carlson, her employer. Despite the ineptitude of others, her effectiveness often kept the station operating. She received three Golden Globe nominations and two Emmy Awards for the part.

In the 1983 comedy “Stroker Ace,” Anderson costarred with Burt Reynolds on the big screen. The two eventually got married, became tabloid stars, and were divorced in 1994.

Anderson’s spouse, Bob Flick; grandkids, McKenzie and Megan Hoffman; stepson Adam Flick and wife Helene; step-grandsons Felix and Maximilian; daughter Deidra and son-in-law Charlie Hoffman; and son Quinton Anderson Reynolds are all living.