American actor Kirstie Alley dead aged 71 after fierce battle with cancer

American actor Kirstie Alley has died.

Her children have confirmed the shocking news that she had passed after a short but tough battle with cancer.

The 71-year-old starred in Cheers, Veronica’s Closet and a number of popular films in the '90s.

Her children True, 30, and Lily, 28 have remembered her as 'incredible, fierce and loving mother'.

Her daughters confirmed the news via social media on Monday (December 5).

"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," her children posted on her Twitter account.

"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.

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

True and Lily went on to give their thanks to the 'incredible team of doctors and nurses at the Moffitt Cancer Center for their care' in her final days.

"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," they wrote.

"We thank you for your love and prayers and ask that you respect our privacy at this difficult time."

Alley's close friend and fellow actor John Travolta penned a heartbreaking tribute to his longtime pal.

"Kirstie was one of the most special relationships I've ever had," Travola said alongside an Instagram post shortly after her death was announced.

"I love you Kirstie. I know we will see each other again."

Travolta and Alley co starred in the three Look Who's Talking films, which came out between 1989 and 1991.

They were both Scientologists.

Alley’s career took off in 1987 when she first appeared as Rebecca Howe on the classic sitcom Cheers alongside Ted Danson.

The role won her a Golden Globe in 1991 for best actress and an Emmy Award for outstanding lead actress for her role in the iconic American TV show.

She earned herself another Emmy in 1994 for starring as Sally Goodson in David’s Mother.

More recently, she featured in her own reality show Kirstie Alley’s Big Life.

She also competed on season 12 of the US version of Dancing with the Stars in 2011.