Loni Anderson, the beloved star of “WKRP in Cincinnati,” passed away on Sunday at the age of 79 in Los Angeles after a prolonged illness. Renowned for her charm, kindness, and intelligence, Anderson made a significant impact on the Minnesota theater community, where she began her career. Her dedication to her craft was exemplified during her yearlong performance as the eldest daughter in the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres’ production of “Fiddler on the Roof,” where she famously never missed a show.
A Star in the Making
According to Gary Gisselman, who directed the 1971 production of “Fiddler,” Anderson was the only cast member to achieve a perfect attendance record, performing eight shows a week. “She was very dedicated to the process and really smart,” Gisselman said. Born in St. Paul on August 5, 1945, Anderson grew up in Roseville, honing her skills in theater at the University of Minnesota starting in 1963. She landed ingenue roles at various local venues, including the now-closed Old Log Theatre and the Centennial Showboat.
Anderson’s charisma was likened to that of legendary stars Judy Garland and Marilyn Monroe. Actor John Command, who met her in 1963 while they were both drama students, recalled her star power. “I remember when we were in ‘Fiddler’ together, we were walking in Southdale with her hair flowing and people were just awestruck,” he said.
A Legacy of Kindness and Professionalism
As her friends and colleagues reflect on her legacy, they highlight her work ethic and vibrant personality. Gisselman noted that after their first rehearsal, she returned dressed as her character, captivating everyone with her glamour. “She wasn’t showing off but being who she was,” he added. Anderson was also a supportive team member, often attending rehearsals of scenes she was not in to improve her skills. “Whatever scene she was in, she didn’t make herself stand out,” Gisselman remarked. “She was good at playing the part and sharing the stage with others.”
Tim Stolz, the son of the late Old Log Theatre owner Don Stolz, recalled working backstage while Anderson performed in popular comedies. “The thing that was most striking about her was that she had all this star power, but she was so kind,” Stolz said. He remembered how he felt shy around her, as many did.
Born to environmental chemist Klaydon Anderson and former model Maxine Kallin, Anderson grew up on Lake Owasso. Both she and her sister, Andrea, suffered from asthma, prompting Anderson to lead a health-conscious lifestyle. Command noted, “Loni was so careful — she never smoked a cigarette in her life.”
Anderson’s personal life, characterized by her high-profile relationships, often made headlines. She was married four times, including a well-publicized union with actor Burt Reynolds.
Linda Gallaro Anderson, a former stage manager at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, shared a unique connection with Anderson. She married Anderson’s ex-boyfriend and “Fiddler” scene partner, Richard Hansen. “It’s a funny coincidence that my husband and I both dated people who became very famous,” Gallaro Anderson said, adding that she was never envious of Anderson.
Gallaro Anderson recalled attending a bridal shower for an actor where Anderson was her charming self. “She said, ‘Oh, gosh, I’m not looking forward to getting up at 6 tomorrow,’” Gallaro Anderson remembered. The reason? Anderson had a dental appointment and insisted on being perfectly put together before stepping out the door.
Loni Anderson leaves behind a legacy of talent, dedication, and kindness, remembered fondly by those who knew her in her formative years in Minnesota. Her contributions to theater and television continue to inspire performers and audiences alike, solidifying her place in entertainment history.
