Mourning Anne Schedeen: The American actress, who became a television favorite as Kate Tanner in the beloved sitcom “ALF,” died on Sunday, June 14, at the age of 77. Her family shared the news in a Facebook post. According to reports, they announced “with a heavy heart” that Annie had passed away peacefully. No cause of death was disclosed. While many fans will forever remember her as Kate Tanner, Schedeen’s life and legacy extended far beyond her most famous role.
Anne Schedeen’s Family Shares a Heartfelt Farewell
Her loved ones remembered the actress as a creative, funny, and fiercely independent woman. “It is with a heavy heart that we must announce that Annie has passed away peacefully,” her family wrote. They described her as someone who left behind a remarkable legacy of creativity, quick wit, and deep love for her family, her small dogs, and a good story.
The statement also highlighted her passion for vintage treasures and art. One particularly emotional line noted that “without her, the family feels lost.” In tribute to her vibrant personality, her family encouraged friends and fans to raise a margarita in her memory.
Anne Schedeen Appeared in All 103 Episodes of ALF
Anne Schedeen enjoyed the height of her television success between 1986 and 1990. Throughout all 103 episodes of “ALF,” she portrayed Kate Tanner, the mother of the family who takes in the wisecracking alien visitor. She starred alongside Max Wright as Willie Tanner and Paul Fusco, who both voiced and performed the title character. Her role helped make the sitcom a lasting favorite for generations of viewers.
The sitcom became one of the defining television hits of the 1980s. Schedeen once described working alongside the famous puppet as a technical challenge, offering fans a rare behind-the-scenes look at how the show was made.
Anne Schedeen’s Career Began in the 1970s
Anne Schedeen was born Luanne Ruth Schedeen on January 8, 1949, in Portland, Oregon. Raised on a farm, she attended college in Portland before moving to New York to pursue her dream of becoming an actress.
She made her television debut in 1974 with The Six Million Dollar Man. More roles soon followed in popular series such as Get Christie Love!, The New York Sheriff, Magnum, P.I., and Cheers. She also appeared on the big screen, including in the thriller Embryo alongside Rock Hudson.
Anne Schedeen Lived a Quieter but Creative Life After ALF
Following the end of ALF, Schedeen stepped away from the spotlight and made only occasional on-screen appearances. She remained creatively active, however, working as an antique dealer and set designer, among other pursuits. Her final public appearance came in 2023 during the reunion special Alf on Alf, where she reunited with former cast members including Paul Fusco, Tom Patchett, Andrea Elson, and Benji Gregory.
Schedeen is survived by her husband, Christopher Barrett, whom she was married to for 55 years, and their daughter, Taylor. With her passing, television says goodbye to a familiar face who helped shape an era of beloved TV entertainment.
