Actress Kirstie Alley, renowned for her Emmy-winning role in “Cheers” and her performances in movies like “Look Who’s Talking,” has passed away following a short battle with cancer, according to an announcement by her children True and Lillie Parker on her social media.
At the age of 71, Alley’s life came to a close.
Her children shared in a statement, “It is with heavy hearts we announce that our brave, fierce, and loving mother has died after recently discovering her cancer.”
“She passed surrounded by her closest family, fighting valiantly and leaving us certain of her perpetual joy for life and the adventures that still lay ahead,” the statement continued. “She was as much a legend on screen as she was an extraordinary mother and grandmother.”
The family highlighted, “Her boundless energy and passion for life, her family, her many pets, and her creativity were unmatched, inspiring us to embrace life as fully as she did.”
Alley’s diagnosis of colon cancer was confirmed by her representative in an email to CNN on Tuesday.
Career Overview
Born in Wichita, Kansas, in 1951, Alley’s career was distinguished with two Primetime Emmy Awards. After her notable appearance in 1982’s “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan,” she starred in films such as “Blind Date” (1984) and “Summer School” (1987) alongside Mark Harmon.
In 1987, Alley joined the cast of the beloved TV sitcom “Cheers,” replacing Shelley Long and starring opposite Ted Danson. Her portrayal of Rebecca Howe, the strong-willed bar manager, lasted until the series finale in 1993. Her role earned her an Emmy in 1991 for outstanding lead actress in a comedy series and another Emmy for her performance in the 1994 miniseries “David’s Mother.”
She continued to find success on television in the late ’90s with “Veronica’s Closet,” earning another Emmy nomination.
Alley also starred in the “Look Who’s Talking” series and other films like “Madhouse” (1990) and “Drop Dead Gorgeous” (1999) with Ellen Barkin.
In 2005, she co-wrote and starred in the Showtime comedy “Fat Actress,” later venturing into reality TV. She appeared on “Kirstie Alley’s Big Life” in 2010, competed in Season 12 of “Dancing with the Stars” in 2011, and was a runner-up on Season 22 of the British “Celebrity Big Brother” in 2018. In 2022, she competed in Season 7 of “The Masked Singer.”
Despite a diverse career, Alley was known for her outspoken nature, particularly on social media.
In a 2007 interview with Good Housekeeping, Alley expressed pride in her straightforward approach, attributing it to her Kansas roots.
Tributes and Memories
John Travolta, Alley’s co-star in “Look Who’s Talking,” expressed his grief on Instagram, saying, “Kirstie was one of the most special relationships I’ve ever had. I love you Kirstie. I know we will see each other again.”
Jamie Lee Curtis, who worked with Alley on “Scream Queens,” shared on Facebook, “She was a fantastic comic foil on the show and a loving mother in real life. Despite our differences, we had a deep mutual respect.”
Josh Gad tweeted his condolences, remarking on her memorable roles and infectious personality, while Ted Danson recounted watching an old episode of “Cheers” and being reminded of her brilliant comedic talent.
Rhea Perlman, another “Cheers” co-star, remembered Alley as a vibrant and loving friend, noting her joyous approach to life and her deep love for her children.
Parker Stevenson, Alley’s ex-husband and father to her children, also paid tribute, expressing gratitude for their shared years and their children and grandchildren.
Alley’s legacy in film and television is marked by her vibrant personality and her profound impact on her colleagues and audience alike.
