Kirstie Alley has died at the age of 71, a family statement has confirmed.

The actress, best known for her iconic role in US sitcom Cheers, had only recently discovered she had cancer.

In a statement released on the star’s social media accounts, her family said she was surrounded by her closest family at her time of death.

It read: “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.