Kirstie Alley, the star ofCheersandDrop Dead Gorgeous, has died. She was 71.
Alley’s children, True and Lillie Parker, announced the actress had died from cancer. In a statement to PEOPLE, True and Lillie confirmed that Alley died on Monday.
“We are sad to inform you that our incredible, fierce and loving mother has passed away after a battle with cancer, only recently discovered,” they said in a statement.
Kirstie Alley on Cheers.Aaron Rapoport/Corbis/Getty
The siblings added how their 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.”
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They also thanked the “incredible team of doctors and nurses” at the Moffitt Cancer Center.
Kirstie Alley.Instagram
The statement concludes with True and Lillie thanking Alley’s fans, sharing, “We thank you for your love and prayers and ask that you respect our privacy at this difficult time.”
The statement wasalso shared onAlley’s Instagram page.
Kirstie Alley.Vinnie Zuffante/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty
“Kirstie was one of the most special relationships I’ve ever had.I love you Kirstie,” he shared alongside a snap of the late star. “I know we will see each other again.”
Valerie Bertinelli also shared her condolences on Twitter, writing, “Oh Kirstie, Rest in Peace”
Alley’s last Instagram video was posted in September when she announced that wasjoining Cameoand fans could request “funny or sincere” messages from her using the platform. Her Cameo page has since been taken down.
Alley rose to fame in 1987 when she starred as Rebecca Howe on NBC’sCheers. She earned a Golden Globe for best actress and an Emmy for outstanding lead actress for her part in the Boston-based series in 1991.
She went on to receive her second Emmy win for her portrayal of Sally Goodson inDavid’s Motherin 1994.
Alley also appeared on television shows includingVeronica’s Closet(1997-2000),Fat Actress(2005),Kirstie(2013-2014), andScream Queens(2015-2016), as well as films likeStar Trek II: The Wrath of Khan(1982),Summer School(1987),Look Who’s Talking(1989),It Takes Two(1995) andDrop Dead Gorgeous(1999).
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source: people.com
