What was Anne Schedeen’s cause of death?

Anne Schedeen, the actress best remembered by millions as TV mum Kate Tanner in 80s cult sitcom ALF, has died aged 77, her family have confirmed.

The star passed away peacefully, according to a heartfelt statement shared on her official Facebook page, with loved ones asking fans to “raise a margarita in her honour” as they celebrated her life rather than focus on grief alone.

Her family described Schedeen as a “force of nature” with a sharp wit, creative spirit and a deep love for her family, rescue dogs and storytelling. 

They also revealed her passion for second-hand treasures, handmade art and what they called her “joie de vivre” that lit up every room she walked into.

“We are absolutely heartbroken,” they wrote, adding that life without her feels “unimaginable”. 

But they said she often reminded them: “I’m always with you,” and they take comfort in that.

She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Christopher Barrett, their daughter Taylor, and a close-knit family including siblings, in-laws and her beloved rescue dogs, Roo and Red.

it's worth noting that no cause of death has been disclosed.

The family also asked for donations to Habitat for Humanity instead of flowers, in keeping with her charitable spirit.

Before landing her breakout role, Schedeen worked her way through years of small jobs and auditions in New York, from modelling to summer stock theatre, before eventually signing with a major studio.

Her role as Kate Tanner in ALF, which ran from 1986 to 1990, made her a household name. 

However, she later admitted the behind-the-scenes experience was far from easy, describing long shoots and technical frustrations on set.

Despite that, her performance remained a defining part of 80s television and for fans, a lasting piece of nostalgia from a very different TV era.

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