Actress Diane Delano, best known for her roles in Northern Exposure and The Wicker Man, has passed away. She was 67.
Delano’s friend Stepfanie Kramer confirmed the news to Deadline. Delano reportedly died of cancer at her home in California.
Kramer mentioned in a statement that Delano had a robust and confident presence, as well as a sharp wit and impeccable comic timing in all her roles. Her down-to-earth and lively demeanor allowed her to captivate any room she entered, making her a truly unique talent.
Delano was known for her appearances in multiple episodes of the comedic drama Northern Exposure on CBS, which was set in a secluded Alaskan community. Hailing from Los Angeles, she portrayed Officer Barbara Semanski, a state trooper who also served as a romantic interest for Barry Corbin’s character, Maurice Minnifield.
She continued to build her television career by landing roles in Ryan Murphy’s WB series Popular from 1999 to 2001, in addition to appearances in shows like Ellen, ER, and Days of Our Lives. Her versatility and talent shone through in each of her performances.
She also played a role in the 2004 Tom Hanks comedy The Ladykillers, alongside JK Simmons and Marlon Wayans.
Delano also did voice acting throughout her career on several animated series, including Rocket Power, The Angry Beavers, American Dad!, and Batman: The Brave and the Bold.
Her more recent roles included a small role in the 2022 comedy Me Time starring Mark Wahlberg and Kevin Hart, the 2024 thriller Final Heist, and the Netflix comedy The Upshaws.
Her last credited role was in the musical comedy Paradise: A Town of Sinners and Saints, which released earlier this year.
The actress received the Indie Series Award in 2021 for her supporting role in Fumbling Thru The Pieces. She later took home the Los Angeles Film Award for best ensemble for Relish.
Delano’s rep Denny Sevier remembered the actress in a statement to People, saying, “When Diane entered any room you knew she was there! She was full of life and loved being an actor. She will be missed.”
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