American actress Ann Wedgeworth, who gained worldwide fame for her role as Kate Tanner in the cult sitcom 'ALF', has died at the age of 77. The tragic news was announced by the star's loved ones on Facebook, noting that the actress "passed away peacefully," leaving behind a rich creative legacy and a bright memory.
A person of incredible energy
Relatives describe Ann as a person with colossal energy, which was not limited to her acting skills. She was a talented artist: she made jewelry by hand, painted oil paintings, and worked in sculpture. In addition, the actress passionately loved animals and gave people genuine laughter.
In a farewell address, the family expressed their grief, admitting that without her they feel lost. "She was a true force. And it is impossible to imagine life without her. But she said: 'I am always with you'. And she was right. Memories, works of art, genuine laughter, handmade jewelry, oil paintings, sculptures, costumes, and the general joy of life remain with us," wrote her loved ones.
Personal life and family
Ann Wedgeworth left behind a large and loving family. Her husband was Christopher Barrett, with whom the actress lived in a happy marriage for 55 years. She is also survived by her daughter Taylor Barrett, daughter-in-law Hilary Flynn, sister Sarahbeth Wedgeworth, brother Roland "Tony" Wedgeworth, and other relatives.
The road to fame: from a farm in Oregon to Hollywood
The actress was born on January 8, 1949, in the state of Oregon under the name Luanne Ruth Wedgeworth. She grew up on a farm near Portland, where she showed an affinity for the stage even in childhood. Luanne staged her first plays at the age of six.
Later, she seriously studied acting at the Portland Civic Theater, performed in local theater productions in Hawaii, and studied at Portland State University and Fort Wright College. After receiving her education, Wedgeworth moved to New York to start her professional career.
Work on 'ALF' and other projects
Before her leading role, the actress appeared in such series as "Paper Dolls", "Emergency!", and "Simon & Simon". However, worldwide fame came to her with the role of Kate Tanner in the sitcom "ALF", which aired on NBC from 1986 to 1990. The series told the story of a funny alien who accidentally ended up in the garage of an ordinary American family and became part of their lives.
In an interview with People magazine, Wedgeworth admitted that working on the show was technically difficult. Recording one 30-minute episode could take up to 25 hours, which required great patience and endurance from the actors.