Los Angeles, California — Valerie Mahaffey, an Emmy-winning actress celebrated for her eclectic roles in television and theater, passed away on Friday at the age of 71 after a courageous battle with cancer. Her husband, actor Joseph Kell, expressed his deep sorrow, stating that Mahaffey was not only the love of his life but also a beloved figure in American entertainment.

Born on June 16, 1953, in Indonesia, Mahaffey spent her formative years there before moving to the United States at age 11. She graduated from high school in Texas and later pursued her passion for acting at the University of Texas. Mahaffey’s career spanned nearly five decades, with a reputation for portraying quirky and memorable characters, most notably as Eve, a hypochondriac in the cult classic series “Northern Exposure,” which aired from 1990 to 1995. Her performance in the series earned her an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in 1992.

In recent years, Mahaffey received acclaim for her role as the optimistic Madame Reynard in the dark comedy “French Exit,” which earned her an Independent Spirit Award nomination. Michelle Pfeiffer, who co-starred with Mahaffey, took to social media to honor her, describing her as a “remarkable talent and human” whose light has been dimmed too soon.

Throughout her career, Mahaffey appeared in a variety of prominent television series. She was recognized for her work on “Desperate Housewives,” where she played Alma Hodge, the manipulative ex-wife of Orson Hodge, and for her recurring role as Victoria MacElroy, a teacher, on “Young Sheldon.” Her versatility also led to guest appearances on beloved shows such as “Seinfeld,” “Wings,” “ER,” “Glee,” and “Grey’s Anatomy.”

An accomplished stage actress, Mahaffey made her mark on Broadway in productions like “Dracula,” opposite Raul Julia, and the acclaimed “Top Girls,” for which she received two Obie Awards. Her early career began with a role on the soap opera “The Doctors,” where she garnered a Daytime Emmy nomination for her portrayal of Ashley Bennett.

Rob Morrow, her co-star from “Northern Exposure,” fondly remembered Mahaffey as a source of joy and laughter on set. He described her presence as a refreshing breath of air, affirming the love and admiration her colleagues held for her.

Mahaffey is survived by her husband and their daughter, Alice. Her passing leaves a significant void in the entertainment world, where her talent and warmth touched the lives of many.