The entertainment world has been rocked by the sudden death of Cheers star Kirstie Alley, after the 71 year old died following a private battle with cancer.

Her two children, daughter Lillie Parker and son True, confirmed her passing with a statement issued to social media in which they shared that their “incredible, fierce and loving mother” had passed away on Monday, December 5.

“To all our friends, far and wide around the world,” the statement read.

“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 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.

“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.”

Along with her family, Hollywood has been left to mourn Alley’s death while attempting to come to terms with the shock of her sudden passing.

One such entertainment figures is Alley’s longtime friend and co-star John Travolta, who starred alongside Alley in the Look Who’s Talking film series.

Travolta was among the first to honour the late star, taking to Instagram to share a throwback photo of the pair smiling at each other, alongside a poignant message.

“Kirstie was one of the most special relationships I’ve ever had. I love you Kirstie. I know we will see each other again,” he wrote.

Alley’s passing is the second time Travolta has been forced to bid farewell to a beloved co-star after the death of Australian entertainment icon Olivia Newton-John on August 8, the pair starred together in the hit 1971 musical film Grease.

In addition to starring alongside Travolta in the Look Who’s Talking films, Alley enjoyed an acting career that spanned more than three decades with appearances in film such as Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan in 1982, Village of the Damned in 1995, Deconstructing Harry in 1997, and the 1994 television film David’s Mother, for which she received her second Emmy award.

Her breakout role, and the one which she is best known for, came in 1987 when she was cast as Rebecca Howe for the NBC hit show Cheers.

She received a Golden Globe for Best Actress and and an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in 1991 for her work on the series.

On November 10, 1995, Alley’s contribution to film was recognised with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.