We're very sad to report that Kirstie Alley, the two-time Emmy-winning actress known for her roles in Cheers, Veronica’s Closet, the Look Who’s Talking movies and Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan, has passed away at the age of 71.
Alley's family released a statement on social media, confirming that she died after a short battle with "only recently discovered” cancer.
“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.”
Alley was probably best known for playing Rebecca Howe on NBC's classic sitcom Cheers from 1987 up until the show's conclusion in 1993. She also played the mother of Bruce Willis' chatty infant in the Look Who's Talking movies, and appeared as Vulcan lieutenant Saavik in Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan.
Due to a pay dispute, Alley did not reprise the role, with Robin Curtis taking over for Star Trek III: The Search for Spock and Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home.
Since the news broke, John Travolta, Jamie Lee Curtis, Kelsey Grammer and others who worked closely with Alley over the years have been sharing their condolences.
Our thoughts go out to Kirstie's family and friends during this difficult time.