Loni Anderson, the beloved actress best known for her role in “WKRP in Cincinnati,” passed away on Sunday at the age of 79 in Los Angeles after a prolonged illness. Her death marks the end of a remarkable career that began in her home state of Minnesota, where she captivated audiences with her talent and charm.
Born on August 5, 1945, in St. Paul, Anderson was raised in Roseville. She began her theater studies at the University of Minnesota in 1963, where she quickly made a name for herself. During her yearlong performance in the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres’ production of “Fiddler on the Roof,” Anderson distinguished herself by never missing a show, performing eight times a week. Director Gary Gisselman noted her dedication and intelligence, stating, “She was very dedicated to the process and really smart.”
Anderson’s early career included roles at the now-closed Old Log Theatre and the Centennial Showboat, where her star quality began to shine. Actor John Command, who met Anderson as a drama student in 1963, highlighted her magnetic presence: “Like Judy Garland and Marilyn Monroe, she had that star power that made people stop and look.” Command recounted a moment during their time in “Fiddler” when they walked through Southdale, and Anderson’s glamorous appearance left onlookers in awe.
As her friends and colleagues reflect on her life, they remember not only her talent but also her work ethic and wit. Gisselman shared a memorable anecdote about Anderson arriving to rehearsal in a stylish outfit, saying, “She wasn’t showing off but being who she was.” Yet, he emphasized that she was also a committed team player, often watching rehearsals for scenes she was not in to hone her craft.
The impact of her kindness resonated with many. Tim Stolz, son of the late Old Log Theatre owner, recalled, “The thing that was most striking about her was that she had all this star power, but she was so kind.” Stolz noted that her presence could be overwhelming for young performers, including himself, who often felt bashful around her.
Anderson’s upbringing was shaped by her family life on Lake Owasso. She was the daughter of environmental chemist Klaydon Anderson and former model Maxine Kallin. Both Loni and her sister Andrea struggled with asthma, prompting Anderson to lead a careful lifestyle, avoiding smoking and being cautious with alcohol. Command remarked, “Loni was so careful — she never smoked a cigarette in her life.”
Her personal life often attracted media attention. Anderson was married four times, including a high-profile relationship with actor Burt Reynolds. Former stage manager Linda Gallaro Anderson, who had a unique connection with Anderson through her then-boyfriend Richard Hansen, shared insights into her personality. Gallaro Anderson described an incident at a bridal shower where Anderson exuded charm while discussing her meticulous beauty routine.
“She said she wouldn’t step foot out the door without all of that. And of course, she was always beautiful,” Gallaro Anderson recalled. This attention to detail and her charismatic nature left a lasting impression on everyone she met.
As the news of her passing spreads, tributes are pouring in from those who had the privilege to know her. Anderson’s legacy as a talented actress and a warm-hearted individual will continue to resonate within the theater community and beyond.
