Kirstie Alley dead at 71

Kirstie Alley, best known for her work on Cheers, has died at the age of 71.

Alley’s death was confirmed via her Instagram, after a short bout with cancer, according to the statement.

“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.”

“We are grateful to the incredible team of doctors and nurses at the Moffitt Cancer Center for their care,” the statement continues. “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.”

Alley was, of course, best known for her role on the hit NBC sitcom, Cheers. She played Rebecca Howe, replacing Shelly Long, in 1987. She played the role until the show went off the air in 1992.

In addition to her TV work, she was also notable for her role in films such as Look Who’s Talking and its two sequels, Summer School, Sibling Rivalry, Deconstructing Harry, and Drop Dead Gorgeous.

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