Diane Delano, actress best known for her work on the Emmy-winning series “Northern Exposure” and the feature film “The Wicker Man,” has died at age 67.
Delano died Friday night at his home in Sherman Oaks, a representative confirmed Tuesday. No cause of death was given.
Since his first television appearance in the medical drama “St. Elsewhere” four decades ago, Delano has earned more than 130 acting credits, including regular roles and cameos on shows ranging from the HBO drama “Six Feet Under” to Disney Channel’s “Good Luck Charlie.”
His most popular endeavor was as a sergeant. Barbara Semanski in the early '90s rural drama “Northern Exposure.” She was also well known as Kennedy High chemistry teacher Bobbi Glass in the coming-of-age comedy-drama “Popular,” co-created by Ryan Murphy and Gina Matthews.
“He was big and bold and brought his sharp wit and perfect comedic timing to every role,” Delano's friend Stepfanie Kramer told Deadline. “Her earthy and strident presence allowed her to always be the owner of the room. “She was unique.”
Diane Allie Delano was born on January 29, 1957 in Los Angeles. Delano, granddaughter of actor John Merton, attended Canoga Park High School, according to IMDb.
She began acting as a child and graduated from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts/West, according to the Hollywood Reporter. His frequent childhood visits to see his grandfather perform inspired his early interest in acting, the union said.
“Even though it was in her DNA, I think those early studio visits cemented Diane's love for a life in the industry,” Delano's cousin, Rick Sparks, told the Hollywood Reporter.
In addition to his countless television roles, Delano also notably starred in films such as “The Wicker Man” (2006), a remake of the 1973 original, and “Miracle Mile” (1988).
Delano earned a Los Angeles Film Award for her performance in the 2019 teen adventure film “Relish.” He had previously won an Indie Series award for the television movie “Fumbling Thru the Pieces” (2011).
