Loni Anderson, one of the stars of the hit TV show “WKRP in Cincinnati” has died at the age of 79. Anderson’s death was confirmed by her longtime publicist, Cheryl J. Kagan.

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

Anderson died at a Los Angeles hospital Sunday, two days before her 80th birthday. Kagan said the actress had been battling a prolonged illness prior to her death.

Anderson was best known for her work as Jennifer Marlowe, the station receptionist in “WKRP in Cincinnati.” Anderson appeared on the show from 1978 to 1982, earning two Emmy Award nominations and three Golden Globe nominations in that time.

Following her success on “WKRP in Cincinnati,” Anderson would appear in a handful of films and television series over the years including “Easy Street” and the made-for-TV movie “A Letter to Three Wives.”

Along with her acting career, Anderson’s personal life made headlines after she married movie star Burt Reynolds in 1988. The two met on the set of the 1983 film “Stroker Ace,” but divorced in 1994.

Anderson is survived by her husband Bob Flick, her daughter Deidra and son-in-law Charlie Hoffman, and son Quinton Anderson Reynolds.