Kristie Alley dies at 71 after battling cancer

Kristie Alley, star of Drop Dead Gorgeous and Cheers has passed away. She was 71.

True and Lillie Parker, Alley's children, said that the actress had passed away from cancer. Alley passed away on Monday, True and Lillie said in a statement to People magazine.

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

"She was surrounded by her closest family and fought with great strength, leaving us with a certainty of her never-ending joy of living and whatever adventures lie ahead," they continued.

"As iconic as she was on screen, she was an even more amazing mother and grandmother."

The siblings added how their 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."

They also praised the "incredible team of doctors and nurses" at the Moffitt Cancer Center.

The statement finishes with True and Lillie lauding Alley's fans, sharing, "We thank you for your love and prayers and ask that you respect our privacy at this difficult time."

The statement was also shared on Alley's Instagram page.