Cheers star Kirstie Alley has died at the age of 71

Sad news to report today that it was announced today that Cheers star Kirstie Alley has died at the age of 71 after a battle with cancer.

The news of Kirstie Alley’s death was shared by her children on her official social media pages. “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,” the statement reads. “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.” The statement continues: “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.“

Kirstie Alley is best known for playing Rebecca Howe on NBC sitcom Cheers after being brought in to replace Shelley Long in the sixth season. She would go on to win a Golden Globe and Emmy Award for her work on the series. After Cheers came to an end, Alley starred in her own series, Veronica’s Closet, in which she played the owner of a lingerie company in New York City. She also made appearances in Wings (as her Cheers character), Dharma & Greg, Hot in Cleveland, The Middle, Scream Queens, The Goldbergs, and more. She also appeared as herself in Fat Actress, Kristie Alley’s Big Life, Dancing with the Stars, and more.

On the big-screen, Kirstie Alley made her debut as Saavik in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, but chose not to reprise the role for further appearances of the character due to not being offered enough money. She’s also known for starring alongside John Travolta in Look Who’s Talking, and returned in Look Who’s Talking Too and Look Who’s Talking Now. Alley also appeared in Summer School, Loverboy, Madhouse, Village of the Damned, It Takes Two, Deconstructing Henry, Drop Dead Gorgeous, and more. You will be missed, Kirstie Alley. Our thoughts go out to your family and friends.