Actress Kirstie Alley dead at 71 after Cancer battle

(Los Angeles, CA) -- Actor John Travolta is among those in Hollywood reacting to the news of Emmy award-winning actress Kirstie Alley's death.

Travolta said on social media that he and Alley had "one of the most special relationships" he's ever had. The two co-starred in a series of films, including the romantic-comedy "Look Who's Talking."

Alley rose to fame with her role in the comedy series "Cheers." Her death was announced Monday by her children, who cited her battle with cancer.

In the statement posted to Alley's official Twitter page, the actress's family thanked the doctors and nurses at the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida for their care.

Alley was 71 years old.