Emmy-Winning Actress Valerie Mahaffey Dies at 71 After Cancer Battle

LOS ANGELES, CA — Valerie Mahaffey, the Emmy-winning actress known for her roles in popular television series such as “Northern Exposure,” “Desperate Housewives,” and “Young Sheldon,” passed away on May 30 at the age of 71. Her husband, actor Joseph Kell, announced she died after a long battle with cancer.

Kell expressed his grief, stating, “I have lost the love of my life, and America has lost one of its most endearing actresses. She will be missed.” Mahaffey won an Emmy Award in 1992 for her portrayal of Eve, a hypochondriac character in the beloved CBS dramedy “Northern Exposure,” which aired from 1990 to 1995.

In recent years, Mahaffey appeared in the Apple TV+ series “Echo 3” and starred in the 2020 film “French Exit,” where she earned an Independent Spirit Award nomination for her role as Madame Reynard. Her career also included notable performances in “Big Sky” on ABC, where she portrayed Lorna Harding, and “Dead to Me” on Netflix.

Born on June 16, 1953, in Indonesia, Mahaffey spent her early childhood there before moving to the United States at age 11. She later graduated from the University of Texas and began her acting career in New York City, appearing in six Broadway productions. Her theater credits included iconic performances in “Dracula” and “Top Girls,” for which she received several accolades, including two Obie Awards.

Mahaffey also had a successful television career with guest appearances on numerous shows, including “Seinfeld,” “ER,” “Glee,” and “Grey's Anatomy.” Her film credits included “Sully,” “Seabiscuit,” and the family drama “Summer Eleven,” which she produced and starred in alongside her daughter, Alice Richards.

Her remarkable versatility and warm personality won the hearts of many fans and colleagues throughout her career. Survivors include her husband, Kell, and her daughter, Richards. Mahaffey’s talent and spirit will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.