Loni Anderson's Iconic Hair on WKRP: Wig or Real?

Introduction

For generations, fans of the beloved sitcom "WKRP in Cincinnati" have marveled at the luscious, bouncy hair of receptionist Jennifer Marlowe, played by the stunning Loni Anderson. However, throughout the show's seven-season run, a burning question has lingered: was Jennifer's hair a wig or her real locks?

The Facts

According to Loni Anderson herself, Jennifer Marlowe's voluminous hair was indeed a wig. She wore a custom-made wig for almost every episode, designed to enhance her character's glamorous and feminine persona. However, in some scenes, Anderson's natural hair can be seen peeking through the wig.

Wig or Real: Examining the Evidence

Why the Wig?

The use of a wig for Jennifer Marlowe's hair served several practical purposes:

• Maintaining Consistency: The wig ensured that Jennifer's hair always looked perfect, even after long filming days or scenes that required multiple takes.
• Amplifying Glamour: The wig created a more glamorous and sophisticated appearance, consistent with Jennifer's role as a popular and sought-after receptionist.
• Time-Saving: Using a wig instead of styling Anderson's real hair saved time on set, allowing the cast and crew to focus on other aspects of production.

Benefits of the Wig

• Enhancing Character: The wig amplified Jennifer's feminine charm and professional demeanor, making her an instantly recognizable character.
• Versatility: The ability to change wigs allowed for varying hairstyles, creating different looks for Jennifer throughout the show's seasons.
• Time Management: By using a wig, Anderson and the production team could allocate more time to other aspects of the show, such as performances and plot development.

Drawbacks of the Wig

• Discomfort: Wigs can be uncomfortable to wear for extended periods, especially in hot environments.
• Maintenance: Wigs require regular cleaning, styling, and maintenance, which can be time-consuming and expensive.
• Limitations: Wigs may not always move and flow naturally, which can affect the realism of a performance.

When Real Hair Was Used

Although Jennifer Marlowe's hair was primarily a wig, there were some instances where Anderson's real hair was visible:

• Early Seasons: In the early seasons of "WKRP," Anderson sometimes wore her real hair, which was shorter and less voluminous than the wig.
• Behind-the-Scenes Footage: Candid footage and interviews often show Anderson with her natural hair, revealing its true color and texture.
• Special Episodes: For certain special episodes or scenes with emotional depth, Anderson may have chosen to wear her real hair to enhance the connection with the audience.

Funny Wig-Related Stories

1. The Wig That Got Away: During a particularly enthusiastic dance scene, Jennifer's wig flew off her head and landed amidst a group of cheering fans. Anderson had to chase after it, much to the amusement of the cast and crew.
2. The Wig That Was on Upside Down: One morning, Anderson accidentally put on her wig upside down, creating a hilarious and comical look. The entire cast and crew erupted in laughter, making it a memorable moment on set.
3. The Wig That Inspired a Song: The iconic "WKRP Wig Jam" song was reportedly written after Anderson's wig fell off during a live performance. The band inserted the incident into the lyrics, resulting in a catchy and humorous tune.

Conclusion

The mystery of Loni Anderson's hair on "WKRP in Cincinnati" has been solved. Jennifer Marlowe's hair was primarily a custom-made wig, strategically used to enhance her character's glamour and maintain consistency throughout the show's run. However, on rare occasions, Anderson's real hair made an appearance, adding a touch of authenticity to the beloved sitcom.

Call to Action

Share your thoughts on Loni Anderson's wig versus real hair on "WKRP in Cincinnati." Do you prefer the wig's glamorous appeal or the authenticity of Anderson's natural hair? Join the conversation on your favorite social media platform and share your memories of this iconic television moment.