Loni Anderson and Other Beloved Sitcom Stars Who Passed Away

Sitcoms have a special way of bringing laughter and warmth into our lives, often making the actors who star in them feel like family. Over the years, many beloved performers who lit up our screens with their humor and heart have passed away, leaving behind legacies that continue to entertain and inspire.

Their characters, from quirky neighbors to lovable parents, remain etched in our memories, and their departures remind us how deeply their work touched us. This article celebrates sitcom stars who are no longer with us, honoring their contributions to television and the joy they brought to audiences.

John Ritter

John Ritter’s infectious energy made him a sitcom icon, most notably as Jack Tripper in ‘Three’s Company’ (1976-1984). His physical comedy and charm turned the show into a hit, earning him an Emmy.

Ritter also starred in ‘8 Simple Rules’ (2002-2005) until his sudden death in 2003 at age 54 from an aortic dissection. His loss was deeply felt, and I still smile thinking of his goofy grin and impeccable timing.

James Avery

James Avery brought warmth and authority to his role as Uncle Phil in ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ (1990-1996). His portrayal of the stern yet loving judge was a cornerstone of the show’s heart.

Avery passed away in 2013 at 68 due to complications from heart surgery. His deep voice and fatherly presence left a lasting mark, and I often revisit his scenes for their blend of humor and wisdom.

Phil Hartman

Phil Hartman was a comedic genius, shining as Bill McNeal in ‘NewsRadio’ (1995-1999) and lending his voice to ‘The Simpsons’ (1989-present). His versatility made every role unforgettable.

Tragically, Hartman was killed in 1998 at 49 by his wife in a murder-suicide. His sharp wit and warmth still resonate, and I miss his ability to steal any scene with ease.

Matthew Perry

Matthew Perry’s Chandler Bing in ‘Friends’ (1994-2004) defined sarcastic humor for a generation. His delivery of one-liners made him a standout in the ensemble cast.

Perry died in 2023 at 54 from a drug-related incident. Rewatching his scenes, I’m reminded of how his vulnerability and humor made Chandler a character I still quote today.

Betty White

Betty White was a television legend, best known for her roles as Rose Nylund in The Golden Girls (1985-1992) and Sue Ann Nivens in The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970-1977). Her sharp wit and warmth made her a beloved figure across generations.

White passed away in 2021 at 99, just weeks shy of her 100th birthday. Her timeless humor and infectious charm continue to shine, and I still laugh at her perfectly delivered lines.

Bob Saget

Bob Saget played the wholesome Danny Tanner in ‘Full House’ (1987-1995) and later ‘Fuller House’ (2016-2020). His warm presence anchored the family sitcom.

Saget passed away in 2022 at 65, found unresponsive in a hotel room. His gentle humor and storytelling always make me feel nostalgic for those cozy Tanner family moments.

George Wendt

George Wendt’s Norm Peterson in ‘Cheers’ (1982-1993) was the ultimate barfly, loved for his dry humor and loyalty. His entrance cheers were a show highlight.

Wendt died in 2025 at 76 in his sleep. I can still hear the crowd shouting ‘Norm!’ and it brings a smile, knowing his character felt like everyone’s best friend.

Kirstie Alley

Kirstie Alley’s Rebecca Howe in ‘Cheers’ (1982-1993) brought sharp wit and charm. She also led ‘Veronica’s Closet’ (1997-2000) as a confident businesswoman.

Alley passed away in 2022 at 71 from cancer. Her bold performances always stood out, and I still laugh at her fiery exchanges with Sam Malone.

Redd Foxx

Redd Foxx’s Fred Sanford in ‘Sanford and Son’ (1972-1977) was a comedic force, blending grumpiness with heart. His junkyard antics were pure gold.

Foxx died in 1991 at 68 from a heart attack on the set of ‘The Royal Family’ (1991-1992). His larger-than-life personality still makes me chuckle when I catch reruns.

Esther Rolle

Esther Rolle’s Florida Evans in ‘Good Times’ (1974-1979) was a strong, loving matriarch. Her grounded performance gave the show its emotional core.

Rolle passed away in 1998 at 78 from diabetes complications. Her portrayal of resilience stays with me, especially in scenes where she held the Evans family together.

Isabel Sanford

Isabel Sanford’s Louise ‘Weezy’ Jefferson in ‘The Jeffersons’ (1975-1985) was elegant and witty. Her chemistry with Sherman Hemsley was sitcom magic.

Sanford died in 2004 at 86 from natural causes. I still admire how she brought grace and humor to every episode, making Weezy a timeless character.

Sherman Hemsley

Sherman Hemsley’s George Jefferson in ‘The Jeffersons’ (1975-1985) was bold and unforgettable. His swagger and quick wit made the show a classic.

Hemsley passed away in 2012 at 74 from lung cancer. Watching him strut into a scene always feels like a masterclass in comedic confidence.

Gary Coleman

Gary Coleman’s Arnold Jackson in ‘Diff’rent Strokes’ (1978-1986) delivered iconic catchphrases like ‘Whatchu talkin’ ’bout, Willis?’ His charm carried the show.

Coleman died in 2010 at 42 after a brain hemorrhage. His youthful energy still shines in reruns, reminding me of his incredible talent despite personal struggles.

Yvette Wilson

Yvette Wilson’s Andell Wilkerson in ‘Moesha’ (1996-2001) and ‘The Parkers’ (1999-2004) was sassy and loyal. Her presence lit up every scene.

Wilson passed away in 2012 at 48 from cervical cancer. I loved her vibrant energy, and her scenes at The Den always bring back fond memories.

Penny Marshall

Penny Marshall’s Laverne DeFazio in ‘Laverne & Shirley’ (1976-1983) was tough yet lovable. She also directed hits like ‘Big’ (1988), showcasing her talent.

Marshall died in 2018 at 75 from diabetes complications. Her spirited performance as Laverne always makes me smile, especially her quirky chemistry with Shirley.

Cindy Williams

Cindy Williams played the sweet Shirley Feeney in ‘Laverne & Shirley’ (1976-1983). Her optimistic charm balanced the show’s dynamic duo.

Williams passed away in 2023 at 75 after a brief illness. Her warm smile and gentle humor still make those episodes feel like a comforting hug.

Robin Williams

Robin Williams brought manic energy to ‘Mork & Mindy’ (1978-1982) as the alien Mork. His improvisational genius made the show a standout.

Williams died by suicide in 2014 at 63. His rapid-fire comedy and heartfelt moments as Mork still leave me in awe of his unmatched talent.

Tom Bosley

Tom Bosley’s Howard Cunningham in ‘Happy Days’ (1974-1984) was the ideal TV dad, warm and wise. His steady presence grounded the show.

Bosley passed away in 2010 at 83 from heart failure. I still feel the comfort of his fatherly role every time I watch a Cunningham family scene.

Erin Moran

Erin Moran’s Joanie Cunningham in ‘Happy Days’ (1974-1984) captured the spunky little sister vibe. She later appeared in ‘Joanie Loves Chachi’ (1982-1983).

Moran died in 2017 at 56 from cancer. Her youthful energy as Joanie always brings back memories of the show’s nostalgic charm.

Nicholas Colasanto

Nicholas Colasanto’s Coach Ernie Pantusso in ‘Cheers’ (1982-1993) was lovably dim-witted. His kind heart made him a fan favorite.

Colasanto died in 1985 at 61 from a heart ailment. I still laugh at his confused yet endearing moments behind the bar at Cheers.

Jack Soo

Jack Soo’s Nick Yemana in ‘Barney Miller’ (1975-1982) delivered dry humor with a deadpan style. His coffee-making gags were a highlight.

Soo passed away in 1979 at 61 from cancer. His subtle comedy still makes me chuckle when I catch those classic episodes.

Earl Hindman

Earl Hindman’s Wilson in ‘Home Improvement’ (1991-1999) was the wise neighbor whose face was always hidden. His advice was a show staple.

Hindman died in 2003 at 61 from lung cancer. I still love how his mysterious yet warm presence added depth to the series.

Max Wright

Max Wright’s Willie Tanner in ‘ALF’ (1986-1990) played the straight man to a chaotic alien. His exasperated reactions were comedy gold.

Wright passed away in 2019 at 75 from lymphoma. His deadpan delivery still cracks me up when ALF drives him up the wall.

Marcia Wallace

Marcia Wallace voiced Edna Krabappel in ‘The Simpsons’ (1989-present), bringing sass to the teacher role. She also starred in ‘The Bob Newhart Show’ (1972-1978).

Wallace died in 2013 at 70 from pneumonia and cancer complications. Her voice as Edna still echoes in my mind from countless episodes.

Jean Stapleton

Jean Stapleton’s Edith Bunker in All in the Family (1971-1979) was the heart of the show, blending naivety with quiet strength. Her high-pitched voice and warmth made her unforgettable.

Stapleton passed away in 2013 at 90 from natural causes. Her sincere portrayal still tugs at my heart when I watch Edith navigate Archie’s grumpiness.

Rue McClanahan

Rue McClanahan’s Blanche Devereaux in The Golden Girls (1985-1992) oozed Southern charm and cheeky humor. Her flirtatious wit lit up the screen.

McClanahan died in 2010 at 76 from a stroke. I still laugh at her saucy one-liners, which made every episode a delight.

Bea Arthur

Bea Arthur’s Dorothy Zbornak in The Golden Girls (1985-1992) delivered sharp sarcasm and strength. Her commanding presence anchored the show’s dynamic.

Arthur passed away in 2009 at 86 from cancer. Her deadpan delivery still makes me chuckle, especially in her epic stare-downs.

Estelle Getty

Estelle Getty’s Sophia Petrillo in The Golden Girls (1985-1992) stole scenes with her biting wit and Sicilian stories. Her small stature hid a giant comedic spark.

Getty died in 2008 at 84 from dementia. Her snappy comebacks still bring a smile whenever I revisit those Miami moments.

Herb Edelman

Herb Edelman’s Stan Zbornak in The Golden Girls (1985-1992) was the charmingly flawed ex-husband. His recurring role added humor and heart.

Edelman passed away in 1996 at 62 from emphysema. I always enjoyed his slick yet vulnerable chemistry with Dorothy.

Andy Griffith

Andy Griffith’s Sheriff Andy Taylor in The Andy Griffith Show (1960-1968) was the calm, wise heart of Mayberry. His gentle humor defined small-town charm.

Griffith died in 2012 at 86 from a heart attack. His warm presence still feels like a comforting visit to Mayberry.

Don Knotts

Don Knotts’ Barney Fife in The Andy Griffith Show (1960-1968) was a comedic gem, with his nervous energy and bumbling deputy antics.

Knotts passed away in 2006 at 81 from lung cancer. His jittery charm still cracks me up in every Mayberry mishap.

Frances Bavier

Frances Bavier’s Aunt Bee in The Andy Griffith Show (1960-1968) brought warmth and nurturing to Mayberry. Her pies and kindness were iconic.

Bavier died in 1989 at 86 from heart failure. Her sweet presence still makes me nostalgic for simpler times.

Hal Smith

Hal Smith’s Otis Campbell in The Andy Griffith Show (1960-1968) was Mayberry’s lovable drunk, delivering humor with heart.

Smith passed away in 1994 at 77 from a heart attack. His stumbling antics still bring a chuckle when I catch reruns.

Howard McNear

Howard McNear’s Floyd Lawson in The Andy Griffith Show (1960-1968) was the quirky barber whose slow drawl and gossip lit up the barbershop.

McNear died in 1969 at 63 from a stroke. His gentle humor still feels like a warm Mayberry memory.

Jim Nabors

Jim Nabors’ Gomer Pyle in The Andy Griffith Show (1960-1968) and Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C. (1964-1969) was a lovable goof with a golden voice.

Nabors passed away in 2017 at 87 from natural causes. His wide-eyed charm still makes me smile in every ‘Shazam!’

George Lindsey

George Lindsey’s Goober Pyle in The Andy Griffith Show (1960-1968) was a dim-witted yet endearing mechanic. His goofy grin was unforgettable.

Lindsey died in 2012 at 83 from heart failure. His lighthearted antics still bring joy to Mayberry fans like me.

Suzanne Pleshette

Suzanne Pleshette’s Emily Hartley in The Bob Newhart Show (1972-1978) was the witty, grounded wife whose charm balanced Bob’s dry humor.

Pleshette died in 2008 at 70 from lung cancer. Her warm smile still lights up those classic episodes.

Tom Poston

Tom Poston’s George Utley in Newhart (1982-1990) was the lovably dim handyman. His deadpan delivery added charm to the inn’s chaos.

Poston passed away in 2007 at 85 from respiratory failure. His quirky humor still makes me laugh in those Vermont inn scenes.

Bob Denver

Bob Denver’s Gilligan in Gilligan’s Island (1964-1967) was the bumbling first mate whose mishaps drove the show’s hilarity.

Denver died in 2005 at 70 from cancer. His slapstick charm still brings a grin when I watch those island antics.

Alan Hale Jr.

Alan Hale Jr.’s Skipper in Gilligan’s Island (1964-1967) was the hearty, lovable captain whose patience with Gilligan was comedy gold.

Hale passed away in 1990 at 68 from cancer. His booming laugh still echoes in those stranded-on-the-island moments.

Dawn Wells

Dawn Wells’ Mary Ann Summers in Gilligan’s Island (1964-1967) was the sweet, girl-next-door whose warmth balanced the castaway chaos.

Wells died in 2020 at 82 from COVID-19 complications. Her wholesome charm still feels like a tropical escape.

Russell Johnson

Russell Johnson’s Professor Roy Hinkley in Gilligan’s Island (1964-1967) was the brainy castaway whose inventions never quite worked.

Johnson passed away in 2014 at 89 from kidney failure. His calm intellect still stands out in those island adventures.

Jim Backus

Jim Backus’ Thurston Howell III in Gilligan’s Island (1964-1967) was the pompous millionaire whose haughty humor stole scenes.

Backus died in 1989 at 76 from pneumonia. His aristocratic antics still make me chuckle in every episode.

Natalie Schafer

Natalie Schafer’s Lovey Howell in Gilligan’s Island (1964-1967) was the posh socialite whose charm complemented her husband’s bluster.

Schafer passed away in 1991 at 90 from cancer. Her elegant wit still shines in those castaway comedies.

Robert Reed

Robert Reed’s Mike Brady in The Brady Bunch (1969-1974) was the ideal TV dad, blending authority with warmth in the blended family.

Reed died in 1992 at 59 from cancer. His steady presence still feels like a comforting hug in Brady family scenes.

Florence Henderson

Florence Henderson’s Carol Brady in The Brady Bunch (1969-1974) was the loving mom whose smile held the family together.

Henderson passed away in 2016 at 82 from heart failure. Her nurturing charm still warms my heart in reruns.

Ann B. Davis

Ann B. Davis’ Alice Nelson in The Brady Bunch (1969-1974) was the witty housekeeper whose humor and loyalty lit up the household.

Davis died in 2014 at 88 from a subdural hematoma. Her cheerful quips still make Brady episodes a joy.

Bob Crane

Bob Crane’s Colonel Hogan in Hogan’s Heroes (1965-1971) was the clever leader whose schemes outwitted the enemy with humor.

Crane was murdered in 1978 at 49. His charismatic performance still makes those barracks scenes endlessly entertaining.

Lucille Ball

Lucille Ball’s Lucy Ricardo in I Love Lucy (1951-1957) was a comedic legend, her zany antics and physical comedy setting the sitcom standard.

Ball died in 1989 at 77 from a heart ailment. Her timeless humor still has me laughing at every grape-stomping moment.

Desi Arnaz

Desi Arnaz’s Ricky Ricardo in I Love Lucy (1951-1957) brought charm and music to the show, perfectly balancing Lucy’s wild schemes.

Arnaz passed away in 1986 at 69 from lung cancer. His suave energy still shines in those classic performances.

Mary Tyler Moore

Mary Tyler Moore’s Mary Richards in The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970-1977) was the independent career woman whose warmth defined the series.

Moore died in 2017 at 80 from cardiopulmonary arrest. Her radiant smile still inspires in every newsroom scene.

Ted Knight

Ted Knight’s Ted Baxter in The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970-1977) was the pompous anchorman whose bumbling ego delivered big laughs.

Knight passed away in 1986 at 62 from cancer. His over-the-top delivery still cracks me up in every broadcast.

Gavin MacLeod

Gavin MacLeod’s Captain Stubing in The Love Boat (1977-1986) was the warm-hearted captain guiding passengers through love and laughs.

MacLeod died in 2021 at 90 from natural causes. His welcoming presence still feels like a cruise ship adventure.

Valerie Harper

Valerie Harper’s Rhoda Morgenstern in The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970-1977) and Rhoda (1974-1978) was the sassy friend with a big heart.

Harper passed away in 2019 at 80 from cancer. Her spunky charm still lights Ascertain that the information provided is accurate and up-to-date as of July 22, 2025, based on available sources. If you have any further questions or need additional details, feel free to ask!

Michelle Thomas

Michelle Thomas played Myra Monkhouse in ‘Family Matters’ (1989-1998), bringing charm as Steve Urkel’s girlfriend. Her warmth was infectious.

Thomas died in 1998 at 30 from stomach cancer. Her bright smile in those episodes still feels like a ray of sunshine.

Lisa Robin Kelly

Lisa Robin Kelly’s Laurie Forman in ‘That ’70s Show’ (1998-2006) was the rebellious sister with a sharp edge. Her early episodes were memorable.

Kelly passed away in 2013 at 43 from addiction-related issues. I still enjoy her snarky scenes, despite her tragic struggles off-screen.

Tom Troupe

Tom Troupe’s guest roles as Judge William E. Grey in Cheers (1982-1993) and Lt. Harold in Star Trek (1966-1969) showcased his versatile charm. His extensive TV career included over 75 shows, like Mission: Impossible and Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman.

Troupe passed away in 2025 at 97 from natural causes in Beverly Hills. His warm presence in those classic episodes still brings a smile to my face.

Malcolm-Jamal Warner

Malcolm-Jamal Warner captured hearts as Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show (1984-1992), bringing charm and relatability to the role of the Huxtable family’s only son. His performance earned him an Emmy nomination and made him a beloved figure in sitcom history.

Warner tragically passed away in 2025 at 54 due to an accidental drowning while on a family vacation in Costa Rica. His warmth and versatility, seen in shows like ‘Malcolm & Eddie’ and ‘The Resident,’ leave a lasting legacy, and I still cherish his authentic, heartfelt performances.

Loni Anderson

Loni Anderson lit up the screen as Jennifer Marlowe, the sharp-witted and glamorous receptionist on WKRP in Cincinnati (1978-1982). Her blend of charm, intelligence, and subtle humor shattered the “dumb blonde” stereotype, earning her two Emmy nominations and three Golden Globe nods.

Anderson passed away in 2025, at 79, just days before her 80th birthday, in a Los Angeles hospital after a prolonged illness. Her vibrant presence and trailblazing role still shine, and I cherish her infectious chuckle and poised grace in every rewatch.

Which sitcom star’s performance touched you the most, or did I miss someone who brought you joy? Share your memories in the comments!