Loni Anderson dies at 79: Inside the ‘prolonged illness’ of the ‘WKRP In Cincinnati’ star and the cause of death

Loni Anderson, best known for her award‑nominated portrayal of Jennifer Marlowe on WKRP in Cincinnati, has died at age 79 following a prolonged illness. The beloved actress passed away on August 3 in a Los Angeles hospital surrounded by close family, just days before her 80th birthday on August 5.

Her family issued a statement saying: “We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our dear wife, mother, and grandmother.”While specifics of her medical condition remain private, Anderson’s decades‑long advocacy for COPD awareness, rooted in caring for her chronically ill parents, has come up once again in the wake of her passing.

Who was Loni Anderson

Born on August 5, 1945, in St. Paul, Minnesota, Loni Kaye Anderson pursued acting through guest roles on shows like S.W.A.T.

and Police Woman in the mid‑1970s. Her breakthrough came as the glamorous and clever Jennifer Marlowe on WKRP in Cincinnati (1978–1982). Marlowe was a trailblazing figure, combining intellect, self-possession, and charm as the linchpin of Cincinnati’s quirky radio team. The same role earned her two Emmy and three Golden Globe nominations.

Anderson later noted Jennifer would likely be a CEO in today’s world, attesting to the character’s empowered essence.

Following WKRP, Anderson appeared opposite Burt Reynolds in the 1983 comedy Stroker Ace, eventually marrying him in 1988. Their high-profile relationship, divorce in 1994, and subsequent fallout were publicly chronicled in her 1995 memoir, My Life in High Heels.In later years, Anderson remained active in television, with roles on Nurses, Sabrina, the Teenage Witch, So NoTORIous, and the 2023 Lifetime film Ladies of the '80s: A Divas Christmas alongside Morgan Fairchild and others.

Inside the health struggles

On August 3, Anderson passed away at age 79 in a Los Angeles hospital after battling what her publicist, Cheryl J. Kagan, stated as a “prolonged illness.” However, the statement of her passing was released without further medical details.Although her illness is unspecified, Anderson was a lifelong advocate for COPD awareness, inspired by witnessing both her parents suffer from chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

She became a spokesperson for COPD education groups in the late 1990s, drawing on deeply personal experience as a caregiver.

What is COPD?

COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, is a group of progressive lung diseases that block airflow and cause breathing-related problems. It is often caused by long-term exposure to irritating smoke, fumes, dust, or chemicals, with cigarette smoke being the most common cause.The two main conditions that comprise COPD areEmphysema: Damaged air sacs (alveoli) trap air in the lungs.Chronic Bronchitis: Inflammation of the bronchial tubes causes increased mucus production and narrowed airways. Most people with COPD have a combination of these conditions.

Causes and risk factors:

While tobacco smoke is the primary cause, other factors include air pollution, occupational exposures, a genetic condition called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, age, and a history of childhood respiratory infections.Smoking: The most significant risk factor, with up to 75% of COPD patients having a history of smoking.

Both cigarette and other forms of tobacco use, including secondhand smoke, increase the risk.Long-term exposure to lung irritants: Exposure to air pollution, occupational dusts and fumes, and secondhand smoke can damage the lungs and contribute to the development of COPD.Genetics: AAT deficiency, a genetic condition, can lead to COPD, especially when combined with smoking or exposure to other irritants.Asthma: Individuals with a history of asthma, particularly childhood asthma, are at a higher risk of developing COPD.

Symptoms of COPD:

COPD symptoms often develop slowly and worsen over time, especially with continued exposure to irritants. Symptoms can include: Shortness of breath: Particularly during physical activity.Chronic cough: Often with mucus.Wheezing: A whistling sound when breathing.Chest tightness.Frequent respiratory infections.Fatigue.

Who are at risk:

Individuals with a history of smoking, long-term exposure to lung irritants, genetic predispositions, and specific demographic factors are at increased risk of developing COPD.

Specifically, smokers and those exposed to secondhand smoke, air pollution, and occupational hazards like chemical fumes and dust are particularly vulnerable. Age, with most COPD cases appearing after 40, and genetic conditions like alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency also play a role.

Diagnosis and treatment:

If you experience symptoms, you’re advised to see a professional healthcare provider. COPD Diagnosis involves a physical exam, medical history, and lung function tests like spirometry. There is no cure for COPD, but treatments can help manage symptoms and slow progression. Treatments include medications, oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, and lifestyle changes like quitting smoking. In severe cases, surgery may be an option.