It’s with a heavy heart that we share the sad news of Diane Delano’s passing. Known for her vibrant presence on screen, Diane left us at the age of 67. Her fight was a brave one, ultimately succumbing to cancer in her Sherman Oaks home, surrounded by memories of a life well-lived. This news was shared by her dear friend, Stepfanie Kramer.
Diane had a unique way of lighting up any character she took on, from Officer Barbara Semanski on CBS’ much-loved Northern Exposure to the unforgettable Bobbi Glass, the hard-nosed science teacher from The WB’s Popular. As Kramer fondly mentioned, Diane had a knack for commanding any room she entered with her larger-than-life personality and impeccable comic timing. She truly was one-of-a-kind.
Throughout her illustrious career, Diane graced many screens, including memorable appearances in celebrated shows like Falcon Crest, Cop Rock, Step by Step, Third Rock From the Sun, and many more. Her character work in Monk, Six Feet Under, Cold Case, and others underscored her versatility and undeniable talent.
Diane’s role as Officer Semanski spanned across 12 episodes over the final four seasons of Northern Exposure, from 1991 to 1995. She truly left a mark with her portrayals of cops and strong authority figures. Her character Bobbi Glass, a tough teacher on Popular, remains vivid in the minds of fans, reflecting her strong acting prowess over the 36 episodes of that show’s two-season run from 1999 to 2001.
Born on January 29, 1957, in the bustling city of Los Angeles, Diane was indeed part of a family with deep ties to the entertainment industry. Her great-uncle, New York stage actor turned Hollywood regular, John Merton, was pivotal in influencing her passion for acting. Diane frequently visited studios with her cousins, experiences that kindled her love for the craft, as her cousin Rick Sparks reminisced.
Starting on her acting journey at just 6 years old, Diane went on to polish her skills, graduating from The American Academy of Dramatic Arts/West. Her early career saw her in guest roles such as on NBC’s St. Elsewhere and in films like Heart Like a Wheel, where she portrayed the sibling of Bonnie Bedelia’s character, Shirley Muldowney.
Over her more than four-decade-long career, Diane shone in various films too. Some notable mentions include Ratboy in 1986, A Mighty Wind in 2003, and The Wicker Man in 2006, where she delivered a memorable performance as Sister Beech. Other film credits include Miracle Mile from 1988 and The Ladykillers in 2004.
Diane also lent her voice to iconic characters in the world of animation. She was the voice behind Big Barda in Batman: The Brave and the Bold and portrayed the superheroine Pantha in Teen Titans. Her other ventures had her exploring the world of soap operas with appearances in Days of Our Lives and Fumbling Thru the Pieces.
Diane’s journey in the arts was as colorful as her personality. The breadth of roles she undertook, and the impact she left behind in each, is a testament to her talent and dedication to her craft. Her legacy not only lies in entertainment but in the countless lives she touched along the way. We say goodbye to a beloved actress who brought such vibrancy to our screens and left an indelible mark on the hearts of many.
