Kirstie Alley, the star of popular sitcoms Cheers and Drop Dead Gorgeous has died at 71 years of age. The news of the actress’ demise was shared by her children, True and Lillie Parker. In a statement, they announced that Kirstie passed away on Monday from cancer which was discovered recently.
Their statement was shared on Kirstie’s official Instagram page and reads, “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. 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. With love always, True and Lillie Parker.”
Following the news, Kirstie’s friend and former co-star John Travolta paid a moving tribute to the actress on social media. Sharing a picture with the actress, he wrote, “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."
Kirstie rose to fame playing the role of Rebecca Howe in NBC’s Cheers. 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 also received her second Emmy win for playing Sally Goodson in David’s Mother in 1994. She also appeared in shows like Veronica's Closet (1997-2000), Fat Actress (2005), Kirstie (2013-2014), and Scream Queens (2015-2016), as well as films like Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982), Summer School (1987), Look Who's Talking (1989), It Takes Two (1995) and Drop Dead Gorgeous (1999). Her life was chronicled on the A&E reality TV series Kirstie Alley's Big Life in 2010. She also competed in Dancing With the Stars Season 12 in 2011 and The Masked Singer Season 7 in 2022.
(Source: Instagram)
