Anne Schedeen, the actress best known for portraying Kate Tanner on the hit 1980s sitcom ALF, has passed away at the age of 77. Her family shared the news in a heartfelt statement on Schedeen's Facebook page, revealing she died peacefully surrounded by loved ones.
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share Annie has passed peacefully,” the statement read. “She leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of creative energy, whip smart humor, delight in her family, adoration for little dogs, burning hatred for Trump, passion for second-hand thrifting, and love for a good story.”
Role as Kate Tanner
Schedeen became a household name as Kate Tanner, the mother of the Tanner family who reluctantly opened her home to the wisecracking alien Gordon Shumway — better known as ALF — after he crash-landed from planet Melmac in their garage. The beloved sitcom ran for four seasons between 1986 and 1990 and became a global television phenomenon, earning a loyal following in Australia and around the world.
Family Tribute
Her family remembered Schedeen as a creative whose influence extended far beyond her acting career. “She was a force. And it is unimaginable to think about life without her in it,” they said. “But as she said, ‘I’m always with you.’ And she’s right. The memories, artwork, belly laughter, handmade jewelry, oil paintings, sculptures, costumes, and all around joie de vivre live on.”
The tribute also reflected on her passions, including animal rescue, storytelling, and spending time with family. Her loved ones encouraged friends and fans to celebrate her life in her own distinctive style. “Raise a margarita in her honor,” they wrote.
Survivors and Legacy
Schedeen is survived by her husband of 55 years, Christopher Barrett; daughter Taylor Barrett; daughter-in-law Hilary Flynn; sister Sarabeth Schedeen; brother Roland “Tony” Schedeen; extended family members; and her beloved rescue dogs, Roo and Red. Schedeen’s death means three of the four core Tanner family cast members from ALF have now passed away, following the deaths of Max Wright in 2019 and Benji Gregory in 2024.
