Cheers star Kirstie Alley has passed away after a short illness

Kirstie Alley was recently diagnosed with cancer.

Actress Kirstie Alley has sadly passed away. The Cheers star died at the age of 71 following a short illness. Kirstie's breakout role was as Rebecca Howe in Cheers. She also starred in Scream Queens, It Takes Two, and Look Who's Talking. Alley's family confirmed the heartbreaking news in a moving statement. Her children William “True” Stevenson and Lillie Stevenson shared that Alley had been recently diagnosed with cancer.

They stated;

"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.

"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." Her children said she inspired them to live life to the fullest. They concluded," We thank you for your love and prayers and ask that you respect our privacy at this difficult time." RIP Kirstie Alley.