Actress Kirstie Alley has died at the age of 71 after a private battle with cancer, which was recently diagnosed, according to reports.
In a statement on social media from her family, they said “To all our friends, far and wide around the world… We are sad to inform you that our incredible, fierce and loving mother has passed away after a battle with cancer, only recently discovered. She was surrounded by her closest family and fought with great strength, leaving us with a certainty of her never-ending joy of living and whatever adventures lie ahead. As iconic as she was on screen, she was an even more amazing mother and grandmother.”
Alley rose to fame after portraying Rebecca Howe in the NBC sitcom Cheers (1987–1993). The role earned her an Emmy Award and a Golden Globe in 1991. From 1997 to 2000, she starred in the sitcom Veronica’s Closet, earning additional Emmy and Golden Globe nominations.
In film, she starred in the “Look Who’s Talking” franchise with John Travolta. She also appeared in “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan,” “Village of the Damned,” “Deconstructing Harry,” “It Takes Two,” “For Richer or Poorer,” “Drop Dead Gorgeous” and more.
“We are grateful to the incredible team of doctors and nurses at the Moffitt Cancer Center for their care. Our mother’s zest and passion for life, her children, grandchildren and her many animals, not to mention her eternal joy of creating, were unparalleled and leave us inspired to live life to the fullest just as she did. We thank you for your love and prayers and ask that you respect our privacy at this difficult time,” the statement added. It was signed by Alley’s children, True and Lillie Parker who are 28 and 30 years-old.
Read more about Kirstie Alley here.