KELLY PRESTON, the actress and wife of Hollywood star John Travolta, has died aged 57 following a private battle with cancer.
A family representative confirmed the news in a statement issues to PEOPLE.
"On the morning of July 12, 2020, Kelly Preston, adored wife and mother, passed away following a two-year battle with breast cancer," it said.
"Choosing to keep her fight private, she had been undergoing medical treatment for some time, supported by her closest family and friends," the rep added.
"She was a bright, beautiful and loving soul who cared deeply about others and who brought life to everything she touched. Her family asks for your understanding of their need for privacy at this time."
Travolta took to Instagram today to share his heartbreaking news and thank the medical staff who assisted his wife during her illness.
He wrote: "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.
"She fought a courageous fight with the love and support of so many.
"My family and I will forever be grateful to her doctors and nurses at MD Anderson Cancer Center, all the medical centers that have helped, as well as her many friends and loved ones who have been by her side. 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. All my love, JT."
Kelly's daughter Ella also took to social media to share on her grief following the tragic news.
The 20-year-old wrote on Instragram: "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."
The sad news is the second family tragedy to befall Travolta, who lost his son, Jett, aged 16, in January 2009.
Preston is survived by her husband John and their children daughter Ella and son Benjamin, nine.
