On December 5, the world was shocked and saddened to learn that actress Kirstie Alley had passed away. Alley was always a large presence in Hollywood, having been a part of the entertainment industry for over four decades. She was always a positive, smiling person, so it was surprising to learn that she was privately battling colon cancer.
Alley’s family shared a statement announcing her death and revealing her cancer battle.
To all our friends, far and wide around the world…
We are sad to inform you that our incredible, fierce and loving mother has passed away after a battle with cancer, only recently discovered.
She was surrounded by her closest family and fought wtih 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.
We are grateful to the incredible team of doctors and nurses at the Moffitt Cancer Center for their care.
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.
We thank you for your love and prayers and ask that you respect our privacy at this difficult time.
With love always, True and Lillie Parker
— Kirstie Alley (@kirstiealley) December 6, 2022
Not long after news of Alley’s death was made public, celebrities and fans began sharing their condolences, including The Santa Clause star Tim Allen. Allen and Alley were both members of the Disney family, but never acted together for the House of Mouse. They did, however, share the starring roles in the 1997 comedy, For Richer or Poorer.
A sweet soul pass on in Kristie Alley. Sad, sad news. Prayers for all her family.
A sweet soul pass on in Kristie Alley. Sad, sad news. Prayers for all her family.
— Tim Allen (@ofctimallen) December 6, 2022
Alley has more than 70 acting credits to her name and appeared in a number of hit television shows and movies over the years, including Look Who’s Talking, Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, It Takes Two, Drop Dead Gorgeous, and Cheers, where she played Rebecca Howe. For Disney, she appeared in the film Toothless and appeared in The Wonderful World of Disney and Mickey’s 60th Birthday, alongside Cheers costars Ted Danson, John Ratzenberger, and Kelsey Grammer.