LOS ANGELES — Emmy-winning actress Valerie Mahaffey, celebrated for her scene-stealing roles in Desperate Housewives, Northern Exposure, and Young Sheldon, has died at the age of 71 following a battle with cancer, her publicist confirmed Friday.
Mahaffey passed away in California, surrounded by family. The actress, whose television career spanned over five decades, was widely praised for her sharp comedic timing and ability to play quirky, emotionally layered characters.
Her husband, actor Joseph Kell, mourned her passing in a heartfelt statement to Variety, calling her “the love of my life” and remembering her as “one of America’s most endearing actresses.”
“She will be missed,” he said.
Their daughter, Alice, wrote a personal tribute on Facebook, expressing grief over the loss. “Cancer sucks,” she wrote. “I’ll look for you in all the fun moments of life. I know that’s where you’ll be.”
Mahaffey won a Primetime Emmy Award in 1992 for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for her portrayal of Eve in the acclaimed CBS series Northern Exposure. The role marked a high point in her career, showcasing her unique ability to bring warmth and eccentricity to even the most offbeat characters.
Earlier in her career, she earned a Daytime Emmy nomination for her work in the soap opera The Doctors, which aired from 1979 to 1981.
In Desperate Housewives, Mahaffey left a lasting impression as Alma Hodge, the cunning ex-wife of Orson Hodge, appearing in eight pivotal episodes during the series’ third season. She brought tension and intrigue to the already drama-laden Wisteria Lane.
Her recent television roles included appearances on Young Sheldon as teacher Victoria MacElroy, and on ABC’s Big Sky. She also guest-starred on a wide array of hit series including ER, Glee, and The Man in the High Castle.
On the big screen, Mahaffey earned critical praise for her performance as Madame Reynard in the 2020 film French Exit, starring opposite Michelle Pfeiffer. The role earned her a nomination for Best Supporting Female at the Independent Spirit Awards.
Her other film credits include Clint Eastwood’s Sully and the Oscar-nominated Seabiscuit.
Born in Sumatra, Indonesia, to a Canadian mother and American father, Mahaffey moved to Texas as a teenager and pursued acting at the University of Texas. Her first film appearance came in 1977 in Tell Me My Name, marking the beginning of a long and prolific career across stage, screen, and television.
Mahaffey’s legacy is defined not only by her accolades but by the indelible mark she left on audiences with her vivid performances. From heartfelt drama to biting comedy, she remained a consistent and compelling presence across every medium.
She is survived by her husband Joseph Kell and their daughter Alice.
