American actress Kirstie Alley, best known for her role in the 1980s and '90s sitcom Cheers, has died of cancer at the age of 71, according to a family statement.
"We regret to inform you that our wonderful and beloved mother has passed away" , her children write.
Alley won an Emmy Award for her role as the bar manager on the hit TV series.
The family's statement did not specify what cancer he had, but said it was recently diagnosed.
They also praised her "enthusiasm and passion for life, her children, grandchildren and her many animals."
"She was surrounded by her closest relatives and fought with great strength, leaving us with her endless joy and love for life and whatever adventure awaits us."
