I just heard the news as well: Kirstie Alley just died. Most people remember her from Cheers, but I remember her far better from Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, where she was Saavik.
Normally, I would write something positive here, something that would be a tribute to her memory. But I can’t. I honestly can’t.
Kirstie Alley took a hard right turn in her later years, hard enough that it colored my perception of her. I couldn’t enjoy her as Saavik; instead, I found myself preferring Robin Curtis in the role. I watched Cheers as a kid, but not as often when Alley made appearances. I have never attempted a rewatch.
Her change for the worse left a bitter taste in my mouth. I couldn’t get past her latest controversy on Twitter to even try to watch anything with her involvement. I just couldn’t force myself to separate her from her works.
Which is where I stand now. I don’t know exactly how to feel about this. Am I upset? Saddened? Indifferent? I can’t say. Maybe it’s better if I don’t say.
Iacon East 