Loni Anderson’s Cause of Death Confirmed as Rare Cancer

The cause of death for actress Loni Anderson has been officially confirmed as she passed away at the age of 79. According to a death certificate obtained by TMZ, Anderson died from metastatic uterine leiomyosarcoma, a rare form of cancer that spreads from the uterus to other parts of the body, including the lungs and liver. This information was made public on August 22, 2023, nearly three weeks after her passing on August 3.
The certificate indicated that no other contributing factors were listed. The National Organization for Rare Disorders describes uterine leiomyosarcoma as a condition that can lead to life-threatening complications. Following her death, Anderson’s remains were cremated and interred in Hollywood on August 7, 2023.
Anderson’s family announced her death, expressing their grief in a statement to the Associated Press. They described her as a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother. Cheryl J. Kagan, her longtime publicist, confirmed that Anderson died in a Los Angeles hospital after battling a prolonged illness, although she did not disclose specific details about the condition at the time.
Legacy of a Beloved Star
Anderson’s passing came just two days before what would have been her 80th birthday on August 5. She gained fame for her role as Jennifer Marlowe on the popular CBS sitcom WKRP in Cincinnati, which aired from 1978 to 1982. For her performance, she earned nominations for two Emmy Awards and three Golden Globe Awards.
Her extensive acting career included appearances in shows such as Partners in Crime, Easy Street, and Nurses. Beyond her professional achievements, Anderson navigated a complex personal life. She was married four times, with her most notable relationship being with actor Burt Reynolds, whom she married in 1988. The couple met in 1981 and began dating shortly after, ultimately starring together in the film Stroker Ace.
Following Reynolds’ death in September 2018, Anderson reflected on their relationship, noting the challenges they faced in the public eye. “We were just a spectacle all the time,” she told the Associated Press shortly before her passing. “And somehow, we did it through many ups and downs.”
Anderson is survived by her daughter, Deidra, from her first marriage to Bruce Hasselberg, and her son, Quinton, from her marriage to Reynolds.
A Lasting Impact
Less than two years before her death, Anderson shared her hopes for her legacy during an exclusive interview. She stated, “I hope that I’ll be remembered for changing the whole look of a young woman with a career.” Her influence extended beyond her roles on screen, shaping perceptions of women in Hollywood.
As fans and colleagues remember Anderson, her contributions to television and her personal journey continue to resonate. Her story serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by public figures and the impact they have on their audiences.