Hollywood mourns 'iconic' actress Kirstie Alley who has died, aged 71

Television and film funnywoman Kirstie Alley has died in hospital in the US, aged 71.

The Hollywood star's family announced their loss on social media, remembering a passionate and inspiring woman and "iconic" actress.

"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," her children True and Lillie Parker wrote.

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

Friend and former co-star John Travolta shared photographs of Alley online, alongside a moving tribute.

"Kirstie was one of the most special relationships I've ever had," Travolta wrote.

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

Alley was best known for her breakout role as Rebecca Howe in the NBC sitcom Cheers from 1987 to 1993, and received both an Emmy Award and a Golden Globe for the role in 1991.

She then went on to star in romantic comedy series Veronica's Closet.

Other major parts included her roles alongside Travolta in the Look Who's Talking films and with the Olsen twins in the 1995 children's comedy hit It Takes Two.

In 2018 she participated in the 22nd series of UK Celebrity Big Brother, in which she finished as runner-up.

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

Her children called their mother "incredible, fierce and loving" and explained that she died in Florida "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," they wrote.

The family also thanked the "incredible" team of doctors and nurses at the Moffitt Cancer Centre for their care.