Diane Delano
“Northern Exposure” star Diane Delano has reportedly passed away at the age of 67. A representative confirmed her death, stating that she succumbed to a brief illness, although no official cause has been disclosed. Delano began acting at the age of six and graduated from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts/West.
Acting ran in the family
Delano’s cousin, Rick Sparks, noted that acting ran in the family. Delano’s grandfather, Myrtland Vivian LaVarre, was a New York stage actor who moved to Hollywood.
Diane was destined to thrive within the entertainment industry
Sparks stated, “Diane was destined to thrive within the entertainment industry,” adding, “Our grandfather, Myrtland Vivian LaVarre, was a New York stage actor who was convinced by Cecil B. DeMille to change his name to ‘John Merton’ and move his wife Esther and their six children out to Hollywood.”
The entire family became working professionals
Sparks added, “Eventually, the entire family became working professionals in various aspects of the studio system. Uncle Lane Bradford would take Diane and cousins often to watch him film.”
Diane’s love for a life within the industry
Sparks stated, “Although it was in her DNA, I believe those early studio visits cemented Diane’s love for a life within the industry.”
Northern Exposure
Delano gained fame for her portrayal of Sergeant Barbara Semanski, a small-town Alaskan cop, in Northern Exposure, which aired from 1990 to 1995. Delano went on to appear in numerous series, like “Days of Our Lives” and “Desperate Housewives.”
Talented voice actress
In addition to her on-screen roles, Delano was a talented voice actress. She played roles animated series like Ben 10: Alien Force and Teen Titans, and even lent her voice to video game franchises like Dead Rising 3 and Lego DC Super-Villains.
Stepfanie Kramer
Stepfanie Kramer, a close friend, described Delano as “big and bold,” noting her sharp wit and comic timing. Kramer said Delano commanded attention in any setting.
She was big and bold
Kramer said, “She was big and bold and brought her sharp wit and perfect comic timing to every role,” says Kramer.
She was one of a kind
Kramer added, “Her earthy and raucous presence enabled her to always own the room. She was one of a kind.”