Kirstie Alley Dead at 71 After Private Battle with Cancer

Kirstie died after a battle with cancer.

"We are sad to inform you that our incredible, fierce and loving mother has passed away after a battle with cancer, only recently discovered," her family said in a statement.

They kept going. She was surrounded by her closest family and fought with great strength, leaving us with a certainty of her never-ending joy of living. She was a great mother and grandmother. The doctors and nurses at the Moffitt Cancer Center are amazing.

"Our mother's passion for life, her children, grandchildren and her many animals, not to mention her eternal joy of creating, were unparalleled and left us inspired to live life to the fullest just as she did."

It's not clear what type of cancer Alley was battling.

From 1987 to 1993 she played Rebecca Howe on "Cheers", earning her an Emmy and a Golden Globe. She won an award for her role in David's Mother.

Fans will remember her for her roles in "Look Who's Talking," "Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan," and many others.

She is survived by her two children.

She was older than 70.

I am sad.