Kirsty Alley dies at 71, family reveals recent battle with cancer

Kirsty Alley, who is known for her roles in “Cheers” has died at the age of 71.

“We are sad to inform you that our incredible, fierce and loving mother has passed away,” her children, True and Lillie Parker, said on social media.

“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,” they said. “As iconic as she was on screen, she was an even more amazing mother and grandmother.”

They also paid tribute to her “zest and passion for life, her children, grandchildren and her many animals, not to mention her eternal joy of creating.”

Alley was widely known for her role in “Cheers,” an NBC sitcom about a bar in Boston. Alley starred in 147 episodes and played the role of a bar manager and cocktail waitress named Rebecca Howe.

Cheers co-star Ted Danson told Deadline in a statement after her death: “Her ability to play a woman on the verge of a nervous breakdown was both moving and hysterically funny.”

“She made me laugh 30 years ago when she shot that scene, and she made me laugh today just as hard,” Danson added. “As I got off the plane, I heard that Kirstie had died.”

“I am so sad and so grateful for all the times she made me laugh. I send my love to her children. As they well know, their mother had a heart of gold. I will miss her.”

Alley starred alongside John Travolta in the tv series, “Look Who’s Talking.”

Travolta said on Instagram after hearing of Alley’s death: “Kirstie was one of the most special relationships I’ve ever had. I love you Kirstie. I know we will see each other again.”