Valerie Mahaffey, a celebrated actress known for her roles in memorable television series and films, passed away at the age of 71, as confirmed by her family.
Valerie Mahaffey, Emmy-Winning Actress, Passes Away at 71

Valerie Mahaffey, Emmy-Winning Actress, Passes Away at 71
Valerie Mahaffey, beloved star of Desperate Housewives and Young Sheldon, dies in California after a battle with cancer.
Her publicist shared the news with The Hollywood Reporter, detailing that Mahaffey, who had been diagnosed with cancer, died on Friday. The actress leaves behind a legacy filled with numerous acclaimed performances, receiving an Emmy Award for her standout portrayal of Eve in the critically acclaimed series Northern Exposure during the '90s.
Mahaffey's husband, Joseph Kell, expressed his sorrow, stating, “I lost the love of my life, and America has lost one of its most endearing actresses.” Their daughter Alice shared her grief on Facebook, stating, “I don’t really have the words to say right now. Cancer sucks," and expressed her desire to remember her mother through joyful life moments.
Among Mahaffey’s most notable roles were her appearances on Young Sheldon and the fan-favorite Desperate Housewives where she played Alma Hodge, a character that left a memorable mark on the show. With a career spanned over five decades, Mahaffey also graced various other series including ER, Glee, and The Man in the High Castle.
Born in Sumatra, Indonesia to a Canadian mother and American father, she moved to Texas as a teenager. Mahaffey’s film credits included notable works like Sully and Seabiscuit, and her recent project was an appearance in the film French Exit, where she was nominated for an Independent Spirit Award.
Fans and the entertainment community are mourning the loss of Mahaffey, whose talent and charm endeared her to many throughout her prolific career.
Mahaffey's husband, Joseph Kell, expressed his sorrow, stating, “I lost the love of my life, and America has lost one of its most endearing actresses.” Their daughter Alice shared her grief on Facebook, stating, “I don’t really have the words to say right now. Cancer sucks," and expressed her desire to remember her mother through joyful life moments.
Among Mahaffey’s most notable roles were her appearances on Young Sheldon and the fan-favorite Desperate Housewives where she played Alma Hodge, a character that left a memorable mark on the show. With a career spanned over five decades, Mahaffey also graced various other series including ER, Glee, and The Man in the High Castle.
Born in Sumatra, Indonesia to a Canadian mother and American father, she moved to Texas as a teenager. Mahaffey’s film credits included notable works like Sully and Seabiscuit, and her recent project was an appearance in the film French Exit, where she was nominated for an Independent Spirit Award.
Fans and the entertainment community are mourning the loss of Mahaffey, whose talent and charm endeared her to many throughout her prolific career.