Kirstie Alley, the acclaimed American actress, model, and producer, had a net worth of $40 million at the time of her passing on December 5, 2022. Alley earned her wealth through television, film, and endorsements, and she became a household name thanks to her role as Rebecca Howe on the NBC sitcom Cheers, which earned her both Emmy and Golden Globe Awards. Here is a detailed look of Kirstie Alley net worth.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Kirstie Alley was born on January 12, 1951, in Wichita, Kansas, to Lillian Alley and lumber company owner Robert Alley. She had two siblings, Craig and Colette. After graduating from Wichita Southeast High School in 1969, she attended Kansas State University but dropped out after her second year. Alley moved to Los Angeles to pursue interior design and became involved with Scientology. Her early television appearances on game shows like Match Game and Password Plus eventually led to acting opportunities.
Early Television Career
Alley appeared on The Love Boat in 1983 and earned roles in TV films and series such as Masquerade, Sins of the Past, A Bunny’s Tale, and the Civil War miniseries North and South. These roles helped her build a foundation in the entertainment industry before landing her breakthrough role.
Cheers and Breakthrough
In 1987, Alley joined Cheers as Rebecca Howe, replacing Shelley Long. She remained on the show until its 11th season in 1993. Her performance earned her an Emmy and a Golden Globe, along with multiple nominations. While on Cheers, Alley appeared in television films and hosted Saturday Night Live, establishing herself as a versatile performer.
Later Television Career
After Cheers, Alley starred in and produced Veronica’s Closet in 1997, earning nominations from the Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild Awards. She also appeared in TV films like Toothless, the crime miniseries The Last Don, and series including Dharma & Greg and The King of Queens. In 2005, Alley starred in Fat Actress, and in 2010, she returned with reality shows like Kirstie Alley’s Big Life. In 2011, she competed on Dancing with the Stars, finishing in second place. Her later television work included Scream Queens and the short-lived TV Land sitcom Kirstie.
Film Career
Alley made her film debut as Lieutenant Saavik in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982) and appeared in Summer School, Shoot to Kill, Look Who’s Talking, and its sequels, as well as Village of the Damned, It Takes Two, Deconstructing Harry, and Drop Dead Gorgeous. Her film appearances slowed in the 2000s, with credits including Back by Midnight, Syrup, and Accidental Love.
Personal Life
Alley married high-school sweetheart Bob Alley in 1970, divorcing in 1977. In 1983, she married actor Parker Stevenson, adopting two children before divorcing in 1997. Alley later became a spokesperson for Jenny Craig, helping her lose around 75 pounds. She remained active in health and wellness initiatives throughout her life.
Real Estate
Alley owned several high-value properties:
- Los Angeles: An 8,800-square-foot mansion purchased in 2000 for $2.988 million, sold in 2021 for $7.8 million.
- Clearwater, Florida: Purchased from Lisa Marie Presley in 2000 for $1.5 million, sold posthumously in 2023 for $5.22 million.
- Islesboro, Maine: Owned property for 30 years, including a waterfront home purchased in 2003 for $1.15 million.
Controversies
Alley attracted controversy for her support of Scientology, involvement in a Scientology-affiliated drug treatment program, and political stances, including support for the 2021 Capitol seditionists.
Death
Kirstie Alley passed away on December 5, 2022, at the age of 71, after a private battle with cancer. Her legacy lives on through her iconic performances in television and film, most notably as Rebecca Howe on Cheers.
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