Desperate Housewives star Valerie Mahaffey dies aged 71 - as tributes paid to 'endearing' actress
31 May 2025, 13:37 | Updated: 31 May 2025, 13:54
Desperate Housewives and Young Sheldon star Valerie Mahaffey has died aged 71 following a cancer diagnosis.
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The Emmy-nominated Hollywood actress, also famed for her role in hit Big Bang theory spin-off Young Sheldon, with the star survived by husband Joseph Kell and their daughter Alice.
Valerie was diagnosed with cancer before passing away in Los Angeles on Friday, with the actress' death announced by her publicist.
The star worked alongside some of Hollywoods biggest names, appearing alongside the likes of Michelle Pfeiffer and Tom Hanks.
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Speaking following her passing, Valerie's husband described the "endearing" star.
"I have lost the love of my life, and America has lost one of its most endearing actresses," Mr Kell said.
"She will be missed."
Taking to Instagram following the star's passing, her daughter, Alice Richards, wrote: "Don't really have the words to say right now. cancer sucks.
"I'll look for you in all the fun moments of life."
Following the announcement, fans took to social media reacting to the loss, with tributes pouring in.
Taking to X, one fan wrote: "RIP to a wonderful character actress. No matter the episode count or number of lines she would have, Valerie Mahaffey made an impression. Loved her as Frasier's secretary & on Big Sky"
Another reacted: "Oh man, Valerie Mahaffey was always one of the most underrated and fantastic character actresses around. She was in EVERYTHING!
"And no one did soft spoken, passive aggressive viciousness better! So Sad to hear she's passed and only 71. RIP."
