Valerie Mahaffey, Young Sheldon and Desperate Housewives actress, dies aged 71

On Desperate Housewives, she portrayed Alma Hodge, the former spouse of Kyle MacLachlan’s character Orson Hodge. Meanwhile, in Young Sheldon, her role was that of teacher Victoria MacElroy.

It was confirmed that Mahaffey died on Friday, 30th May, in Los Angeles, following a struggle against cancer. Her husband, the actor Joseph Kell, made this announcement.

Kell expressed: “My beloved is gone, and we’ve lost an adorable actress who touched many hearts in America. Her absence will surely be felt.

Mahaffey spent her childhood in Indonesia until she was 11 years old. Later, she completed her high school education in Austin, Texas, and earned a degree from the University of Texas.

An actress from America, who kick-started her career on the New York stage, was also chosen for roles in movies like Seabiscuit and Sully.

2020 saw her being recognized with a Spirit Award nomination, thanks to her captivating portrayal of widow Madame Reynard in the comedy-drama “French Exit.” The film, featuring performances from Michelle Pfeiffer and Lucas Hedges as well, was released that same year.

Apart from Young Sheldon and Desperate Housewives, Mahaffey’s extensive television resume boasts notable shows like Seinfeld, ER, The West Wing, Grey’s Anatomy, Cheers, Frasier, and Glee as well.

Lately, she’s been featured in the Montana-set crime drama Big Sky, paired with Christina Applegate and Linda Cardellini in Dead to Me, and in the Apple TV show Echo 3.