Kirstie Alley, the talented actress celebrated for her iconic roles in both television and film, sadly passed away on December 5, 2022, at the age of 71, as confirmed by her children, who shared that colon cancer was the cause of her untimely death.
This heartbreaking news was conveyed through a statement shared on Ms. Alley’s social media accounts, including platforms like Twitter and Instagram, where her children, True and Lillie Parker, disclosed that they had recently learned about their mother’s cancer diagnosis.
In their heartfelt tribute, True and Lillie Parker expressed their deep sorrow by stating, ‘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 highlighted her incredible strength during her illness, noting that she fought valiantly and left them filled with the certainty of her enduring joy for life and the adventures that lie ahead.
The family also reflected on her profound impact beyond her fame, sharing, ‘As iconic as she was on screen, she was an even more amazing mother and grandmother.’ They extended their gratitude to the medical team that cared for her, specifically acknowledging the exceptional doctors and nurses at the Moffitt Cancer Center.
This detail indicates that Ms. Alley was seeking treatment at the Moffitt Cancer Center, located in Tampa, Florida, at the time of her death. The statement from her children further reflected on her vibrant spirit and influence, saying, “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.” The family also requested privacy during this difficult period.
Ms. Alley, a native of Kansas, had relocated to Florida in 2000. Public records note that her children, Lillie Price Stevenson and William True Stevenson, were adopted during her marriage to her ex-husband, Parker Stevenson. This occurred after she experienced a miscarriage in 1994.
In a touching moment from 2016, Ms. Alley joyfully announced the birth of her grandson, Waylon Tripp Parker, on social media, showcasing her love for family. Even in her later days, she remained connected with her fans, posting on Twitter with holiday wishes as recently as Thanksgiving Day in 2022.
The announcement of her colon cancer diagnosis, which was described as having been recently discovered, sheds light on a critical health issue that affects many. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer affecting both men and women in the United States, excluding certain skin cancers.
Moreover, the CDC identifies colorectal cancer as the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths nationally. Among cancers that affect both sexes, it is the second leading cancer killer in the United States. However, public health organizations emphasize that this does not have to be the case.
The CDC emphasizes the crucial role of colorectal cancer screening as a potential life-saving measure. Such screening tests can identify precancerous polyps within the colon or rectum, allowing for their removal before they develop into cancer, while also facilitating the early detection of colorectal cancer, when treatment is typically most effective.
Early detection can have a profound impact; the CDC states that about nine out of ten individuals diagnosed early with colorectal cancer and treated appropriately survive at least five years. Current guidelines recommend that individuals aged 45 and older participate in regular colorectal cancer screenings.
Research into colorectal cancer is ongoing, with scientists actively investigating its causes and potential prevention strategies. Efforts are also focused on improving early detection methods. According to the American Cancer Society, researchers are seeking enhanced ways to identify colorectal cancer early by studying new types of screening tests, such as blood tests, and working to refine existing methods.
Additionally, the American Cancer Society highlights ongoing research into whether specific tests or screening schedules are more effective than others, while also focusing on raising public awareness about the importance of routine screenings that can help reduce mortality from this disease.
Before her passing, Kirstie Alley enjoyed a lengthy and diverse career in the entertainment world, gaining immense popularity for her portrayal of Rebecca Howe in the beloved NBC sitcom ‘Cheers.’ Appearing on this iconic show from the late 1980s to the early 1990s, she became a household name during NBC’s celebrated ‘must-see TV’ Thursday night lineup, earning accolades for her performance.
