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Renowned Actress Valerie Harper Dead at 80
Valerie Harper, the woman behind the famous Rhoda Morgenstern from "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," has recently passed away after a long battle with lung cancer.
The news was shared by her daughter, Cristina Harper Cacciotti, who took to her official Twitter page to let her mother's fans and followers know that Valerie was no longer with them.
According to Cristina, who spoke on her father's, Tony Cacciotti, behalf, the actress drew her last breath on Friday, August 30, at 10:06 a.m. after years of dealing with severe health issues.
My dad has asked me to pass on this message: “My beautiful caring wife of nearly 40 years has passed away at 10:06am, after years of fighting cancer.
— Cris (@cristicacci) August 30, 2019
She will never, ever be forgotten. Rest In Peace, mia Valeria. -Anthony.”
SHE WAS VERY SICK
It has been reported that, in her last few years, the actress suffered from lung cancer, brain cancer and leptomeningeal carcinomatosis, a rare complication of cancer in which the disease spreads to the brain and spinal cord.
COUNTING ON THE KINDNESS OF STRANGERS
In order to help Valerie with her treatments, a friend named Deanna B. set up a GoFundMe page titled "The Valerie Harper Cancer Support Fund," which gathered over $65,000.
The page was only up for about a week, and Valerie's devoted fans were the ones responsible for donating all the money. However, the page was eventually closed after members of the entertainment industry offered to pay for the medical expenses.
GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN
The late 80-year-old was very loved within show business and was regarded as one of the most talented individuals on television. Following her death, several celebrities paid tribute to her on social media.
Actress Marlee Matlin wrote:
"Even when she was down she danced and showed the world that she refused to let cancer beat her. Now Rhoda is with Mary in heaven. RIP Valerie Harper. You were the epitome of strength and humor.”
Sad to hear about the passing of #ValerieHarper. She was incredibly courageous facing cancer with her humor and grace. Thinking of her devoted family, friends, and many fans. Like Mary Tyler Moore she could turn the world on with her smile. 🙏🏾❤️ pic.twitter.com/iEHnWl2BTO
— Robin Roberts (@RobinRoberts) August 30, 2019
Alyssa Milano, who costarred with Valerie on "Melrose Place," described her as the kindest and most gracious actor on set, adding that she will be missed.
Valerie Harper was always the most gracious and the kindest actor on set.
— Alyssa Milano (@Alyssa_Milano) August 30, 2019
She will be missed. Rest In Peace.
💔 pic.twitter.com/kJdXYrmzmq
Ed Asner, who shared a photo of Valerie on his Twitter account, said that "her brilliance burst through and shined its light upon all of us," wishing her goodnight and that they would see each other soon.
