Diane Delano

Diane Delano (January 29, 1957 – December 13, 2024) was an American character actress whose career spanned nearly five decades, earning her a reputation for versatility and memorable supporting roles. Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, she entered the entertainment industry in the late 1970s, quickly establishing herself as a reliable presence on both the small and big screens. Her breakout television work came with the role of Sergeant Barbara Semanski on the beloved CBS series Northern Exposure, where her blend of toughness and humor resonated with audiences. She later cemented her TV legacy as Roberta “Bobbi” Glass on The WB’s Popular, a role that showcased her knack for comedic timing and dramatic depth. Beyond live‑action, Delano cultivated a substantial voice‑acting portfolio, lending her distinct vocal talents to characters such as Ma Vreedle in the Ben 10 franchise, Tuba in Infinity Train, Stompa in Superman: The Animated Series, and Pantha in Teen Titans, thereby influencing a generation of animated and gaming fans. Her film appearances, though often supporting, added texture to projects ranging from the darkly comic to the suspenseful, and she remained a familiar face on daytime television, notably as FBI agent Hilda on Days of Our Lives. Throughout her career, Delano’s professionalism was praised by peers, and she maintained close ties to her family heritage, being the granddaughter of silent‑era actor John Merton. Tragically, she succumbed to cancer at her Los Angeles home on December 13, 2024, a loss mourned by colleagues such as Stepfanie Kramer who publicly announced her passing. Diane Delano’s enduring contributions to television, film, and voice work leave a lasting imprint on American popular culture.