HAPPY DAYS Actress Erin Moran Dead at 56

Erin Moran, best known for her role as Joanie Cunningham on HAPPY DAYS and the spin-off series JOANIE LOVES CHACHI, passed away yesterday, April 22, at age 56 according to CNN.

She was discovered following a 911 call in regards to an unresponsive female. Upon arrival, first responders declared her deceased. An AUTOPSY is pending.

Friends and colleagues of the actress, including co-stars Don Most and Ron Howard, have issued statements regarding her passing:

Erin was a person who made everyone around her feel better. She truly cared about others first, a true angel. I will miss her so much, but know that she is in God's hands. RIP sweet angel.- Anson Williams

I am so incredibly sad to hear about Erin. She was a wonderful, sweet, caring, talented woman. As I write this I can't really comprehend this right now. A very painful loss. It gives me some comfort to know that she's with Tom, Al, Pat and Garry. Rest In Peace, sweet Erin. -Don Most

Such sad sad news. RIP Erin. I'll always choose to remember you on our show making scenes better, getting laughs and lighting up TV screens. -Ron Howard

To learn more about Erin Moran's life and career, visit CNN here.

Photo Credit: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images