US actress Kirstie Alley has died from cancer at the age of 71, according to her family. A statement posted on social media through her official accounts described her as a “incredible, fierce and loving mother”.
Alley, was surrounded by her closest family, the statement said. She was best known for her breakout role as Rebecca Howe in the NBC sitcom Cheers from 1987 to 1993, and received both an Emmy Award and a Golden Globe for the role in 1991.
In 2018 she participated in the 22nd series of UK Celebrity Big Brother, in which she finished as runner-up. “As iconic as she was on screen, she was an even more amazing mother and grandmother,” the statement read.
“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 read.
“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 family statement went on to the thank the “incredible” team of doctors and nurses at the Moffitt Cancer Centre, in Florida, 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,” it continued. “We thank you for your love and prayers and ask that you respect our privacy at this difficult time.”
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