Veteran American actress Anne Schedeen, widely recognized for portraying Kate Tanner in the beloved 1980s sitcom ALF, has died at the age of 77.
Her family announced her passing in a statement posted on Facebook on June 14, 2026. Alongside paying tribute to her life and accomplishments, they also referenced her outspoken dislike of US President Donald Trump.
The statement read:
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share Annie has passed peacefully. She leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of creative energy, whip-smart humour, delight in her family, adoration for little dogs, burning hatred for Trump, passion for second-hand thrifting, and love for a good story. We are bereft without her. We loved her so so much, as did all who met her.”
Reflecting on the impact she had on those around her, family members described Schedeen as “a force” and said it was “unimaginable to think about life without her”. They also recalled one of her most cherished sayings, “I’m always with you”, noting that “she’s right”.
They added: “The memories, artwork, belly laughter, handmade jewellery, oil paintings, sculptures, costumes, and all around joie de vivre live on. Raise a margarita in her honour … we all love you, Annie,”
Born in Portland, Oregon, in 1949, Schedeen developed an early passion for acting and trained at the Portland Civic Theatre. She later relocated to Hawaii, where she performed in dinner theatre productions, before heading to New York to further pursue stage acting.
Her career eventually took her to California, where she established herself in television and appeared in numerous productions.
Among her most memorable roles was her performance in ALF, the NBC sitcom that aired from 1986 to 1990. Schedeen remained part of the cast throughout the show’s entire four-season run, appearing in all 101 episodes.
She portrayed Kate Tanner, the matriarch of the Tanner family, whose lives were turned upside down after taking in an alien creature that crash-landed in their backyard.
News of Schedeen’s death comes as fans across the entertainment industry continue to mourn the loss of several notable actors who have passed away in recent months.
