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Kirstie Alley, ‘Cheers’ star, dies of cancer at 71

Actress Kirstie Alley has died after battling cancer, her family and her manager said Monday night. She was 71 years old.

“We are sad to inform you that our incredible, fierce and loving mother has passed away after a battle with cancer, only recently discovered,” Alley’s children True and Lillie Parker wrote in a statement that was shared on Alley’s Twitter. “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.”

“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 and leave us inspired to live life to the fullest just as she did,” they added. “We thank you for your love and prayers and ask that you respect our privacy at this difficult time.”

I n 1987, she joined the cast of the sitcom “Cheers,” Her performance earned her an Emmy Award in 1991 for outstanding lead actress in a comedy series. She later earned a second Emmy for her role in the 1994 television drama film “David’s Mother.” The following year, she was given a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.