The world of Hollywood is in mourning following the death of Kelly Preston at the age of 57.
A spokesperson for the actor, model and wife of John Travolta confirmed that she died on Sunday morning, following a private two-year battle with breast cancer.
John led the tributes to Kelly on Monday, sharing a touching message on Instagram.
“It is with a very heavy heart that I inform you that my beautiful wife Kelly has lost her two-year battle with breast cancer,” he wrote. “She fought a courageous fight with the love and support of so many.”
John continued: “Kelly’s love and life will always be remembered. I will be taking some time to be there for my children who have lost their mother, so forgive me in advance if you don’t hear from us for a while. But please know that I will feel your outpouring of love in the weeks and months ahead as we heal.”
Several celebrities paid their respects to Kelly in the comments on John’s Instagram post, including his American Crime Story co-star Sarah Paulson, who wrote: “Love you so.”
Mariah Carey also commented: “Sending so much love to you and your family in this heartbreaking moment.
The couple’s daughter Ella shared her own post on Instagram, writing: “I have never met anyone as courageous, strong, beautiful and loving as you. Anyone who is lucky enough to have known you or to have ever been in your presence will agree that you have a glow and a light that never ceases to shine and that makes anyone around you feel instantly happy.
“Thank you for being there for me no matter what. Thank you for your love. Thank you for your help and thank you for making this world a better place. You have made life so beautiful and I know you will continue to do so always. I love you so much mama.”
Other stars have shared their memories of Kelly on social media.
Maria Shriver wrote: “Shocked by this sad news. Kelly was such a bright loving soul, a talented actress, and a loving mom and wife.
“My heart breaks for her family who have already known such sadness and grief. Join me in sending them love and strength.”
Reacting to the news of Kelly’s death, fellow actor Josh Gad said: “I’m in absolute shock. What a beautiful and amazing actress and person. So sad to hear of her passing at such a young age.
“My heart goes out to John Travolta and the entire family. What a loss. RIP.”
Many others have also been sharing tributes, including those who knew and worked with Kelly during her lifetime...
A family spokesperson told People magazine: “On the morning of July 12, 2020, Kelly Preston, adored wife and mother, passed away following a two-year battle with breast cancer.
“Choosing to keep her fight private, she had been undergoing medical treatment for some time, supported by her closest family and friends.”
After a number of small on-screen appearances, Kelly’s breakthrough roles came in 1985, appearing in the teen comedies Mischief and Secret Admirer.
Following this, she starred in Jerry Maguire, What A Girl Wants and The Cat In The Hat, as well as the music video for the Maroon 5 hit She Will Be Loved.
She and John also acted alongside one another multiple times, including in Battlefield Earth, Old Dogs and, more recently, the crime biopic Gotti.
The couple married in 1991 and had three children together, 20-year-old daughter Ella, nine-year-old son Benjamin and an older son, Jett, who died at the age of 16 in January 2009.
