Valerie Mahaffey the Emmy-winning actress known for her unforgettable role as Alma Hodge in Desperate Housewives passed away on May 30, 2025 at 71 after a battle with cancer. Her five-decade career left a lasting mark on TV and film. Here’s how you can honor her incredible work.
Explore Mahaffey’s Standout Roles
Born in Indonesia in 1953 Mahaffey started on Broadway in plays like Dracula and Play Memory from 1976 to 1984. She earned a Daytime Emmy nomination for Ashley Bennett on The Doctors (1979-1981) and won a Primetime Emmy in 1992 for playing Eve in Northern Exposure. Fans adored her as Alma Hodge the scheming ex-wife in Desperate Housewives (2006-2007) and as Victoria MacElroy in Young Sheldon (2017-2020). Her TV credits include Seinfeld ER Glee Big Sky and Dead to Me where she played Lorna Harding. In film she starred in Sully (2016) Seabiscuit (2003) and French Exit (2020) earning an Independent Spirit Award nomination. Her final role was in the 2025 thriller The 8th Day.
Heartfelt Tributes
Mahaffey’s publicist said “Valerie was a charismatic actress whose warmth touched everyone.” Her husband Joseph Kell told Variety “America lost one of its most endearing talents.” Their daughter Alice Richards shared on Instagram “Cancer sucks. I’ll find you in life’s joyful moments.”
Why Her Legacy Shines
Mahaffey’s knack for blending quirkiness with depth made characters like Alma and Eve iconic. Her journey from stage to screen alongside stars like Tom Hanks and Michelle Pfeiffer showed her range and charm.
Celebrate Her Work
Stream Desperate Housewives on Hulu or Young Sheldon on Max to enjoy Mahaffey’s performances. Watch French Exit on digital platforms for her acclaimed role. Share your favorite memories online to celebrate the actress.
