Portland, Oregon — Anne Schedeen, renowned for her role as Kate Tanner on the beloved NBC sitcom “ALF,” passed away on June 14, 2026, at the age of 77. Her family shared the news through a heartfelt post on her Facebook page, stating she died peacefully surrounded by loved ones. The family did not disclose a cause of death.
In a touching tribute, her family expressed their profound sorrow, describing Schedeen’s legacy as vibrant and full of life. They highlighted her sharp sense of humor, dedication to her family, love for rescue dogs, strong political beliefs, enthusiasm for thrift shopping, and passion for storytelling. The family urged friends and fans to celebrate her life by enjoying a margarita in her honor.
Schedeen shot to fame in the late 1980s as the grounded matriarch of the Tanner family, whose suburban California home became the unlikely refuge for Gordon Shumway, an alien from the planet Melmac. The series, which aired from 1986 to 1990, spanned four seasons and featured 99 episodes. It garnered a dedicated worldwide following, particularly in Australia, solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon.
Born Luanne Ruth Schedeen on January 8, 1949, she initially adopted her stage name in the early 1970s as she embarked on her acting career. She made her television debut in 1974, appearing on “The Six Million Dollar Man,” which paved the way for a contract with Universal Pictures and numerous television appearances during that era.
Over her impressive 15-year career, Schedeen became a familiar face on American television, landing notable roles in various renowned series. She made recurring appearances in “Emergency!” and “Marcus Welby, M.D.” and was featured in “Family” in 1977. Schedeen also appeared in “Three’s Company,” playing a variety of characters between 1978 and 1982. Her versatility allowed her to also connect with audiences through memorable guest roles on iconic shows like “Cheers” and “Magnum, P.I.”
While her television credits are extensive, Schedeen dabbled in film as well, including a role in the cult horror film “Embryo” in 1976. She later joined the cast of the short-lived prime-time drama “Paper Dolls” before securing her most famous role in “ALF.”
Following the cancellation of “ALF” in 1990, Schedeen appeared infrequently in the entertainment industry, with her last significant role being on “Judging Amy” in 2001. After her acting career, she shifted her focus to interior design and philanthropy, pursuing passions that brought her joy.
With her passing, only one member of the Tanner family from “ALF” remains. Max Wright, who portrayed Willie Tanner, died in 2019, and Benji Gregory, who played their son Brian, passed away in 2024. Andrea Elson, who played their daughter Lynn, is the last surviving member of the main cast.
Anne Schedeen is survived by her husband, Christopher Barrett, a talent agent whom she married in 1982; her daughter, Taylor Barrett; her daughter-in-law, Hilary Flynn; her sister, Sarabeth; her brother, Roland “Tony” Schedeen; and her beloved dogs, Roo and Red. Her family and fans will remember her as a talented actress with a kind heart and a zest for life.