Back to the Future star James Tolkan dies aged 94
James Tolkan, known for Back to the Future and Top Gun, has died aged 94 after a remarkable acting...
Kirstie Alley's children have confirmed the actress has died after a recently-discovered battle with cancer. Alley, 71, who starred in Cheers, Veronica's Closet and a number of popular films in the 90s, has been remembered as an "incredible, fierce and loving mother".
"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 ever more amazing mother and grandmother," her daughter Lillie Parker and son True wrote on Twitter.
The siblings remembered their 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."
They went on to thank the "incredible team of doctors and nurses" at the Moffitt Cancer Center.
"We thank you for your love and prayers and ask that you respect our privacy at this difficult time," the statement concluded.
Alley's close friend John Travolta paid tribute to the actress on social media following the news of her death.
"Kirstie was one of the most special relationships I've ever had. I love you Kirstie," he shared alongside a snap of the late star.
"I know we will see each other again."
Alley first found fame in 1987 in her breakout role as Rebecca Howe on NBC's Cheers.
In 1991, she earned a Golden Globe for best actress and an Emmy for outstanding lead actress for her role in the sitcom. In 1994, she received her second Emmy win for her portrayal of Sally Goodson in David's Mother in 1994.
In 2010, her life was chronicled on the A&E reality TV series Kirstie Alley's Big Life. She also competed on season 12 of Dancing with the Stars.
She also starred on the big screen in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982), Summer School (1987), Look Who's Talking (1989), It Takes Two (1995) and Drop Dead Gorgeous (1999).
By Bella Fowler
This article originally appeared on news.com.au
