Monday, December 5, actress Kirstie Alley’s children announced the sad news of their mother’s sudden death via her social media accounts.
The Cheers star’s son William “True” and daughter Lillie wrote, “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 rep confirmed on Tuesday, December 6, that the actress had recently been diagnosed with colon cancer. Though receiving treatment at Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida, she lost the brief battle with her illness.
Tributes began to pour in immediately after the unexpected news broke. Ex-husband Parker Stevens, the father of True and Lillie, took to Instagram on Monday and penned a heartfelt message. “Dear Kirstie,” he wrote, “I am so grateful for our years together, and for the two incredibly beautiful children and now grandchildren that we have. You will be missed. With love, Parker.”
The former couple met while filming the hit Civil War miniseries North and South. They married in 1983, six years after Alley’s divorce from Bob Alley was final. Bob was the actress’s high school sweetheart, and they were married from 1970-1977. Stevens and Alley’s marriage ended in 1997.
John Travolta co-starred with Kirstie Alley in the popular Look Who’s Talking films. The fellow Scientologist wrote on Instagram, “Kirstie was one of the most special relationships I’ve ever had.” He added, “I love you, Kirstie.”
Fellow Cheers co-stars also shared their thoughts and memories. Kelsey Grammar simply stated, “I always believed grief for a public figure is a private matter, but I will say I loved her.” Ted Danson said Kirstie had a “heart of gold” and remembered “all the times she made [him] laugh.” Rhea Perlman wrote, “Kirstie was a unique and wonderful person and friend. Her joy of being was boundless.”
Kirstie Alley had 76 acting credits on her resume. She made her film debut in 1982’s highly acclaimed Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan. Her widespread fame began in 1987 with her leading role on Cheers as Rebecca Howe. In 1991, she won a Golden Globe and Emmy for her performance in the beloved series. In April 2022, she was revealed as the Baby Mammoth on “The Masked Singer.”
Much like her onscreen personas, Alley’s children shared that she “fought with great strength” prior to her passing. It is no doubt this remarkable woman will be deeply missed.
Cover Image: Getty via Variety