Kelly Preston passed away this week after a two-year battle with breast cancer, a diagnosis that the actress and her husband, John Travolta, chose not to publicise prior to her passing. “She fought a courageous fight with the love and support of so many,” the actor wrote to his Instagram, confirming the news. “Kelly’s love and life will always be remembered.”
John’s statement continued: “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.”
Her daughter also wrote a touching tribute. “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.❤️”
Following the news of her passing, many took to social media to mourn.
“Such a beautiful soul, sparkling eyes exuding kindness and strength,” Rita Wilson wrote. “She found the joy in life. She loved fiercely.”
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Maria Shriver described the actress as “a bright loving soul, a talented actress, and a loving mum and wife.”
Kelly is survived by Travolta and their 20-year-old daughter, Ella, and 9-year-old son, Benjamin. Their son Jett died in 2009.
Below, all the celebrity tributes to Preston.
Kelly Preston.
— Russell Crowe (@russellcrowe) July 13, 2020
Can’t remember where, but, met first in late ‘92 I think.
Such a lovely person. In 1995 we auditioned together for Breaking Up, Salma Hayek got that gig.
I havent seen her much, but when I did, she was always the same sparkly eyed gem.
Love to her family.
R.I.P
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. #RIP #KellyPreston https://t.co/DndcfOtlOn
— Maria Shriver (@mariashriver) July 13, 2020
RIP to my on screen mom, #kellypreston. What a lovely woman. Such a sad loss.
— Spencer Breslin (@Spencerbreslin) July 13, 2020
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 #KellyPreston https://t.co/yRqOmI3CjW
— Josh Gad (@joshgad) July 13, 2020
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I just want to say that Secret Admirer was the movie that made me fall in love with Kelly Preston and Lori Laughlin. when I met her on set she was the loveliest woman ever. So kind. She kept her breast cancer private. I respect her for that. I’m crying right now for her family. https://t.co/Tao5M0wLlz
— Jillian Barberie (@askjillian) July 13, 2020
Kelly Preston was enormously kind and unbelievably lovely. Can’t believe this. My thoughts are with her sweet Ella and the rest of her incredible family. RIP ???
— . (@AzukOfficiaI) July 13, 2020
My deepest condolences to the family of Kelly Preston, and all who knew and loved her. She was an absolutely lovely human being and it’s an honor to have had her be a part of The Last Song. She will be greatly missed. pic.twitter.com/DeOlbLmTFK
— Nicholas Sparks (@NicholasSparks) July 13, 2020
Deeply heartbroken for the whole Travolta family over the passing of the wonderful, kind, and extremely talented Kelly Preston. ?I’m sending love and prayers to her husband, her children and everyone who loved her. May She Rest In Peace. ??
— Reese Witherspoon (@ReeseW) July 13, 2020
Kelly Preston was a wonderful friend…one of the loveliest people in our lives and such a great mother and wife. Our hearts are forever with John, Ella, and Ben. Jim and I are heartbroken. pic.twitter.com/qjnmYGLvQW
— Barbra Streisand (@BarbraStreisand) July 13, 2020
Goodbye to my beautiful friend Kelly Preston pic.twitter.com/ghNanZKDep
— Kenny Chesney (@kennychesney) July 13, 2020
I’m unbelievably saddened by the news that Kelly Preston has passed and at such a young age. A beautiful and kind person I was fortunate enough to have known. My heart breaks for John and the kids ?❤️ pic.twitter.com/kDophIwa6y
— Shania Twain ??? (@ShaniaTwain) July 13, 2020
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I’m saddened to hear that Kelly Preston died so young. I loved working with her on Sky High. She was truly kind, passionate, and talented, and she brought light to the lives of everyone around her. My heart goes out to John and their family. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/C4ipOp2KOc
— Lynda Carter (@RealLyndaCarter) July 13, 2020
Grace Back is a journalist and was formerly the Digital Culture Editor across ELLE and marie claire Australia. When not stuck in a seemingly endless Instagram scroll, you'll find Grace with her head in a good book.
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