Kirstie Alley Passes Away, Aged 71.
Image: NBC Universal via Getty Images
Film and television actress Kirstie Alley has passed away following a recent cancer diagnosis, aged 71.
Kirstie Alley is known for her iconic roles in TV series ‘Cheers’ and the ‘Look Who’s Talking’ films.
A statement from Alley’s children True and Lillie Parker confirmed her passing:
“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.”
Latest reports indicate she was being treated for recently diagnosed colon cancer at Moffitt Cancer Center in Florida.
Kirstie Alley possessed an on-screen allure and charisma that emboldened the characters she portrayed.
She made her film debut in 1982 as Vulcan Starfleet officer Lieutenant Saavik in ‘Star Trek II: The Wrath Of Khan. But her breakout role was Rebecca Howe in the NBC sitcom ‘Cheers’, which she appeared in from 1987-1993.
Her film career includes Summer School (1987), Shoot to Kill (1988), Look Who’s Talking (1989) along with two sequels (1990–1993), Madhouse (1990), Sibling Rivalry (1990), Village of the Damned (1995), and Drop Dead Gorgeous (1999).
Kirstie’s television endeavours continued into the 2000s, starring as the lead character in sitcom ‘Veronica’s Closet’. She also appeared in two seasons of ‘Dancing With The Stars’; in 2022 she competed in ‘The Masked Singer’.
Alley also became a proud advocate for positive body image in the face of intense and often cruel public scrutiny about her physique.
Kirstie Alley’s passing is being felt in the remembrances of those who knew her best. John Travolta, among many others, expressed his condolences via social media.
“Kirstie was one of the most special relationships I’ve ever had,” Travolta posted on Instagram.
“I love you, Kirstie. I know we will see each other again.”