**Celebrated Actor Valerie Mahaffey Dies at 71**

LOS ANGELES – Valerie Mahaffey, a distinguished actor known for her diverse roles across stage, film, and television, has passed away at the age of 71 following a battle with cancer. The news was confirmed by her publicist, Jillian Roscoe, in a statement released on Saturday. Mahaffey died on Friday in Los Angeles.

Mahaffey's illustrious career spanned decades, beginning over 45 years ago with her role in the soap opera "The Doctors." She gained wide acclaim for her performance in the 1990s series "Northern Exposure," where she won an Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for her portrayal of Eve, a hypochondriac.

Her versatility as an actor was evident through her numerous television roles, including appearances on "Young Sheldon," "Desperate Housewives," "The Powers That Be," "Big Sky," "Seinfeld," "Wings," and "ER." Mahaffey's film credits were equally impressive, featuring roles in "Sully," alongside Tom Hanks under the direction of Clint Eastwood, and "French Exit," where she played Madame Reynard opposite Michelle Pfeiffer.

Beyond her acting career, Mahaffey's early years were filled with international experiences. She spent her childhood in Indonesia, Nigeria, England, and Texas, shaping a broad perspective that she brought to her craft.

Valerie Mahaffey's contributions to the entertainment industry will be remembered by her wide range of performances and the impact she left on both her audience and peers.