Actress Kirstie Alley, best known for her role in the 1980s and ’90s comedy series Chairs, has died of cancer at the age of 71, according to a family statement.
“We are saddened to inform you that our incredible, fierce and loving mother has passed away,” her children wrote.
Ellie won an Emmy Award for her portrayal of a pub manager in the popular TV series.
The Wichita, Kansas native has also appeared in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, Drop Dead Gorgeous, and The Look Who’s Talking series.
The family statement did not say what cancer he had, but said it was “recently discovered”.
“She was surrounded by her closest family and fought with great strength, leaving us with the never-ending joy of her life and the confidence to take on whatever adventures lie ahead,” it continued.
“As famous as she was on screen, she was an even more amazing mother and grandmother.”
They also admired her “enthusiasm for life, her children, grandchildren and her many animals, not to mention her eternal joy of creation”.
John Travolta, who co-starred with him in the Look Who’s Talking series, took to Instagram to pay tribute to him.
“Kirstie was one of the most special relationships I’ve ever had. I love you Kirstie,” she wrote alongside her photo.
“I know we’ll see each other again.”
She played Rebecca Howe opposite actor Ted Danson.
She appeared in 147 episodes after joining the show at the height of its popularity and continued to appear until its end in 1993.
In 1993, she won a second Emmy for Best Lead Actress.
