who is nichelle on star trek

• Skip to main content
• Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

Nichelle Nichols, Lt. Uhura on 'Star Trek,' dies at 89

Mandalit del Barco

Nichelle Nichols made history for her role as communications officer Lt. Uhura on Star Trek. CBS via Getty Images hide caption

Nichelle Nichols made history for her role as communications officer Lt. Uhura on Star Trek.

Actress and singer Nichelle Nichols, best known as Star Trek 's communications officer Lieutenant Uhura, died Saturday night in Silver City, New Mexico. She was 89 years old.

"I regret to inform you that a great light in the firmament no longer shines for us as it has for so many years," her son Kyle Johnson wrote on the website Uhura.com . "Her light, however, like the ancient galaxies now being seen for the first time, will remain for us and future generations to enjoy, learn from, and draw inspiration."

Nichols was one of the first Black women featured in a major television series, and her role as Lt. Nyota Uhura on the original TV series was groundbreaking: an African American woman whose name came from Uhuru, the Swahili word for "freedom."

"Here I was projecting in the 23rd century what should have been quite simple," Nichols told NPR in 2011 . "We're on a starship. I was head communications officer. Fourth in command on a starship. They didn't see this as being, oh, it doesn't happen til the 23rd century. Young people and adults saw it as now."

In 1968, Nichols made headlines when Uhura shared an intimate kiss with Captain James T. Kirk (played by William Shatner) in an episode called "Plato's Stepchildren." Their interracial kiss on the lips was revolutionary, one of the first such moments on TV.

Nichelle Nichols shared one of the first interracial kisses in TV history with William Shatner.

Nichols was born Grace Dell Nichols in a Chicago suburb where her father was the mayor. She grew up singing and dancing, aspiring to star in musical theater. She got her first break in the 1961 musical Kicks and Co ., a thinly veiled satire of Playboy magazine. She was the star of the Chicago stock company production of Carmen Jones, and in New York performed in Porgy and Bess .

'To me, the highlight and the epitome of my life as a singer and actor and a dancer/choreographer was to star on Broadway," she told NPR in 2011, adding that as her popularity on Star Trek grew, she was beginning to get other offers. "I decided I was going to leave, go to New York and make my way on the Broadway stage."

Nichols said she went to Gene Roddenberry, the creator of Star Trek , and announced she was quitting. "He was very upset about it. And he said, take the weekend and think about what I am trying to achieve here in this show. You're an integral part and very important to it."

The Two-Way

For mlk day: 'lt. uhura' on how rev. king told her to stay on 'star trek'.

So that weekend, she went to an NAACP fundraiser in Beverly Hills and was asked to meet a man who said he was her number one fan: Martin Luther King, Jr.

"He complimented me on the manner in which I'd created the character. I thanked him, and I think I said something like, 'Dr. King, I wish I could be out there marching with you.' He said, 'no, no, no. No, you don't understand. We don't need you ... to march. You are marching. You are reflecting what we are fighting for.' So, I said to him, 'thank you so much. And I'm going to miss my co-stars.'"

"His face got very, very serious," she recalled. "And he said, 'what are you talking about?' And I said, 'well, I told Gene just yesterday that I'm going to leave the show after the first year because I've been offered... And he stopped me and said: 'You cannot do that.' I was stunned. He said, 'don't you understand what this man has achieved? For the first time, we are being seen the world over as we should be seen. He says, do you understand that this is the only show that my wife Coretta and I will allow our little children to stay up and watch.' I was speechless."

Nichols returned to the series, which lasted until 1969. She also reprised her famous role in six subsequent feature films, including Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan , where Uhura was promoted to commander .

Much More Than A 5-Year Mission: 'Star Trek' Turns 50

For years, Nichols also helped diversify the real-life space program, helping to recruit astronauts Sally Ride, Judith Resnik, Guion Bluford, and others. And she had her own science foundation, Women in Motion .

"Many actors become stars, but few stars can move a nation," tweeted actress Lynda Carter, who played Wonder Woman on TV in the 1970s. "Nichelle Nichols showed us the extraordinary power of Black women and paved the way for a better future for all women in media. Thank you, Nichelle. We will miss you."

George Takei, who costarred on Star Trek as helmsman Hikaru Sulu tweeted: "I shall have more to say about the trailblazing, incomparable Nichelle Nichols, who shared the bridge with us as Lt. Uhura of the USS Enterprise," her wrote. "For today, my heart is heavy, my eyes shining like the stars you now rest among, my dearest friend."

He also posted a photo of his longtime friend, both of them flashing the Vulcan greeting, and these words: "We lived long and prospered together."

We lived long and prospered together. pic.twitter.com/MgLjOeZ98X — George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) July 31, 2022

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Nichelle Nichols, Lieutenant Uhura on ‘Star Trek,’ Dies at 89

She was among the first Black women to have a leading role in a TV series. She later worked with NASA to recruit minorities for the space program.

By Bruce Weber

Nichelle Nichols, the actress revered by “Star Trek” fans for her role as Lieutenant Uhura, the communications officer on the starship U.S.S. Enterprise, died on Saturday in Silver City, N.M. She was 89.

The cause was heart failure, said Sky Conway, a writer and a film producer who said he had been asked by Kyle Johnson, Ms. Nichols’s son, to speak for the family.

Ms. Nichols had a long career as an entertainer, beginning as a teenage supper-club singer and dancer in Chicago, her hometown, and later appearing on television.

But she will forever be best remembered for her work on “Star Trek,” the cult-inspiring space adventure series that aired from 1966 to 1969 and starred William Shatner as Captain Kirk, the heroic leader of the starship crew; Leonard Nimoy as his science officer and adviser, Mr. Spock, an ultralogical humanoid from the planet Vulcan; and DeForest Kelley as Dr. McCoy, a.k.a. Bones, the ship’s physician.

A striking beauty, Ms. Nichols provided a frisson of sexiness on the bridge of the Enterprise. She was generally clad in a snug red doublet and black tights; Ebony magazine called her the “most heavenly body in ‘Star Trek’” on its 1967 cover. Her role, however, was both substantial and historically significant.

Uhura was an officer and a highly educated and well-trained technician who maintained a businesslike demeanor while performing her high-minded duties. Ms. Nichols was among the first Black women to have a leading role on a network television series, making her an anomaly on the small screen, which until that time had rarely depicted Black women in anything other than subservient roles.

In a November 1968 episode, during the show’s third and final season, Captain Kirk and Lieutenant Uhura are forced to embrace by the inhabitants of a strange planet, resulting in what is widely thought to be the first interracial kiss in television history.

Ms. Nichols’s first appearances on “Star Trek” predated the 1968 sitcom “Julia,” in which Diahann Carroll, playing a widowed mother who works as a nurse, became the first Black woman to star in a non-stereotypical role in a network series.

(A series called “Beulah,” also called “The Beulah Show,” starring Ethel Waters — and later Louise Beavers and Hattie McDaniel — as the maid for a white family, was broadcast on ABC in the early 1950s and subsequently cited by civil rights activists for its demeaning portraits of Black people.)

But Uhura’s influence reached far beyond television. In 1977, Ms. Nichols began an association with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, contracting as a representative and speaker to help recruit female and minority candidates for spaceflight training; the following year’s class of astronaut candidates was the first to include women and members of minority groups.

In subsequent years, Ms. Nichols made public appearances and recorded public service announcements on behalf of the agency. In 2012, after she was the keynote speaker at the Goddard Space Center during a celebration of African American History Month, a NASA news release about the event lauded her help for the cause of diversity in space exploration.

“Nichols’s role as one of television’s first Black characters to be more than just a stereotype and one of the first women in a position of authority (she was fourth in command of the Enterprise) inspired thousands of applications from women and minorities,” the release said. “Among them: Ronald McNair, Frederick Gregory, Judith Resnik, first American woman in space Sally Ride and current NASA administrator Charlie Bolden.”

Grace Dell Nichols was born in Robbins, Ill., on Dec. 28, 1932 (some sources give a later year), and grew up in Chicago. Her father, a chemist, was the mayor of Robbins for a time. At 13 or 14, tired of being called Gracie by her friends, she requested a different name from her mother, who liked Michelle but suggested Nichelle for the alliteration.

Ms. Nichols was a ballet dancer as a child and had a singing voice with a naturally wide range — more than four octaves, she later said. While attending Englewood High School in Chicago she landed her first professional gig, in a revue at the College Inn, a well-known nightspot in the city.

There she was seen by Duke Ellington, who employed her a year or two later with his touring orchestra as a dancer in one of his jazz suites.

Ms. Nichols appeared in several musical theater productions around the country during the 1950s. In an interview with the Archive of American Television, she recalled performing at the Playboy Club in New York City while serving as an understudy for Ms. Carroll in the Broadway musical “No Strings” (though she never went on).

In 1959, she was a dancer in Otto Preminger’s film version of “Porgy and Bess.” She made her television debut in 1963 in an episode of “The Lieutenant,” a short-lived dramatic series, created by Gene Roddenberry, about Marines at Camp Pendleton. Mr. Roddenberry went on to create “Star Trek.”

Ms. Nichols appeared on other television shows over the years — among them “Peyton Place” (1966), “Head of the Class” (1988) and “Heroes” (2007). She also appeared onstage in Los Angeles, including in a one-woman show in which she did impressions of, and paid homage to, Black female entertainers who preceded her, including Lena Horne, Pearl Bailey and Eartha Kitt.

But Uhura was to be her legacy. A decade after “Star Trek” went off the air, Ms. Nichols reprised the role in “Star Trek: The Motion Picture,” and she appeared as Uhura, by then a commander, in five subsequent movie sequels through 1991.

Besides her son, her survivors include two sisters, Marian Smothers and Diane Robinson.

Ms. Nichols was married and divorced twice. In her 1995 autobiography, “Beyond Uhura: Star Trek and Other Memories,” she disclosed that she and Mr. Roddenberry, who died in 1991, had been romantically involved for a time. In an interview in 2010 for the Archive of American Television, she said that he had little to do with her casting in “Star Trek” but that he defended her when studio executives wanted to replace her.

When she took the role of Uhura, Ms. Nichols said, she thought of it as a mere job at the time, valuable as a résumé enhancer; she fully intended to return to the stage, as she wanted a career on Broadway. Indeed, she threatened to leave the show after its first season and submitted her resignation to Mr. Roddenberry. He told her to think it over for a few days.

In a story she often told, she was a guest that Saturday night at an event in Beverly Hills, Calif. — “I believe it was an N.A.A.C.P. fund-raiser,” she recalled in the Archive interview — where the organizer introduced her to someone he described as “your biggest fan.”

“He’s desperate to meet you,” she recalled the organizer saying.

The fan, the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., introduced himself.

“He said, ‘We admire you greatly, you know,’ ” Ms. Nichols said, and she thanked him and told him that she was about to leave the show. “He said, ‘You cannot. You cannot.’”

Dr. King told her that her role as a dignified, authoritative figure in a popular show was too important to the cause of civil rights for her to forgo. As Ms. Nichols recalled it, he said, “For the first time, we will be seen on television the way we should be seen every day.”

On Monday morning, she returned to Mr. Roddenberry’s office and told him what had happened.

“And I said, ‘If you still want me to stay, I’ll stay. I have to.’”

Eduardo Medina contributed reporting.

An earlier version of this obituary misspelled the surname of one of the astronauts NASA said were inspired to join the American space program by Ms. Nichols’s role on “Star Trek.” She was Judith Resnik, not Resnick.

How we handle corrections

Nichelle Nichols (1932-2022)

Additional crew.

IMDbPro Starmeter Top 5,000 3562

• 7 wins & 7 nominations

• Lieutenant Nyota Uhura
• 1966–1969 • 68 eps

• Michelle McHalls
• Pre-production

• Octavia Butler

• Nyota Uhura

• Aunt Petunia

• Mystic Woman

• Teresa Suskin

• Secretary General Starr

• Adm. Grace Jemison
• Admiral Jemison

• Deejay Devine

• Admiral Grace Jemison

• Lucinda Winters

• executive producer

• co-producer

• choreographer
• In-development projects at IMDbPro

Personal details

• Duke & Nichelle
• 5′ 3½″ (1.61 m)
• December 28 , 1932
• Robbins, Illinois, USA
• July 30 , 2022
• Silver City, New Mexico, USA (heart failure)
• Spouses Duke Mondy December 20, 1967 - March 1972 (divorced)
• Kyle Johnson
• Parents Samuel Earl Nichols
• Other works TV commercial: Psychic Encounters
• 1 Print Biography
• 12 Interviews
• 6 Pictorials
• 2 Magazine Cover Photos

Did you know

• Trivia Frustrated with the racist harassment, culminating with her learning that the studio was withholding her fan mail, she submitted her resignation from Star Trek (1966) after consulting with series creator Gene Roddenberry . She stated in several interviews that the harassment made her go back to work in theater until attending an NAACP fundraiser. The fundraiser was where a Star Trek fan was about to meet her for the first time and, to her astonishment, the fan turned out to be Dr. Martin Luther King . King stated that his wife and children had seen Star Trek on TV and it was the only television series that he had approved of. He said that her role as the fourth in command of the USS Enterprise became a positive role model for African-Americans. She withdrew her resignation from the series when King personally convinced her that her role was too important as a breakthrough to leave.
• Quotes [on the Star Trek (1966) fans] I'm a fan of the fans. I love them. They're fabulous. I love being around them. I love their madness and their caring. I love watching them take off for a weekend, don the costumes, and become characters from the 23rd century and beyond. I thank the fans for giving us--me--so much support and love. I want them to know I love them. They will always be my friends. I'll see the fans, always. They can rest assured of that.
• Trademarks Lieutenant Nyota Uhura on Star Trek (1966) and six of the Star Trek films
• When did Nichelle Nichols die?
• How did Nichelle Nichols die?
• How old was Nichelle Nichols when she died?

Related news

Contribute to this page.

• Learn more about contributing

More to explore

Add demo reel with IMDbPro

How much have you seen?

Recently viewed

Nichelle Nichols, who played Lt. Uhura on ‘Star Trek,’ dies at 89

• Show more sharing options
• Copy Link URL Copied!

Nichelle Nichols, who played the communications officer on the Starship Enterprise on “Star Trek” and famously participated in what was thought to be the first interracial kiss on television, has died.

Nichols died of heart failure Saturday night at a hospital in Silver City, N.M., a friend of the family handling media inquiries for Nichols’ son confirmed Sunday to the Los Angeles Times. She was 89.

Nichols suffered a stroke at her Woodland Hills home in 2015 and was struggling with dementia. She had been in a years-long conservatorship battle that pitted the son, Kyle Johnson, against a former manager and a close friend. Last year Johnson moved Nichols to New Mexico, citing the need to protect his mother from what he called exploitation by the manager and others.

Nichols gained fame as the beautiful, composed, immensely competent Lt. Uhura on three seasons of “Star Trek” on TV and in six “Star Trek” movies. A Black American cast as a master of 23rd century intergalactic technology, she had a role that defied the typical portrayal of Black women as domestics or entertainers. When she contemplated leaving the show for a Broadway play after its first season, she was dissuaded by none other than the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.

Entertainment & Arts

Nichelle Nichols’ ‘Star Trek’ family praises ‘unique artist who was ahead of her time’

George Takei, William Shatner, Zoe Saldana and other members of the ‘Star Trek’ family mourned Nichelle Nichols, the series’ original Lt. Uhura.

Aug. 1, 2022

When they met at an NAACP fundraising event in Beverly Hills, King was appalled when she spoke of quitting, according to Nichols’ 2010 reminiscence on the Archive of American Television.

“The world sees us for the first time as we should be seen,” King told her. “Gene Roddenberry [‘Star Trek’s’ creator] has opened a door. If you leave, that door can be closed. Your role is not a Black role and not a female role — he can fill it with anything, including an alien.”

“I could say nothing,” she recalled. “I just stood there, realizing that every word he said was the truth.”

“He told me that it was the only show that he and his wife, Coretta, would allow their little children to stay up and watch,” Nichols recounted to CNN years later. More important, the Nobel Prize winner told Nichols that she was breaking important new ground for Black Americans and had to keep doing it.

“For the first time,” King told her, “the world sees us as we should be seen. This is what we’re marching for.”

Comic-Con 2018: Nichelle Nichols reveals how Martin Luther King Jr. convinced her to stay on ‘Star Trek’

Before “Black Panther,” Nichelle Nichols began paving the way for afro-futurism and black representation in pop culture.

July 20, 2018

“Besides,” said King, who confessed to being a huge “Star Trek” fan, “you’re the fourth in command — you’re the head communications officer.”

Days later, she told Roddenberry she’d changed her mind.

“He took out my resignation letter, which was torn into a hundred pieces, and handed me the pile. I said, ‘Thank you, Gene.’ ”

Nichols came to embrace her role and appeared at “Star Trek” events throughout her life. She became an eloquent advocate for the U.S. space program and led a successful drive to recruit women and minorities into astronaut training.

“My heart is heavy, my eyes shining like the stars you now rest among, my dearest friend,” her “Star Trek” co-star George Takei wrote Sunday on Twitter, calling Nichols an incomparable trailblazer.

Elegant, assertive and capable of rigging up a subspace bypass circuit in practically no time at all, Uhura inspired a generation of Black women. Comedian Whoopi Goldberg, on first seeing Nichols when she was about 9, remembered running through the house yelling, “Everybody, come quick, come quick — there’s a Black lady on television and she ain’t no maid!”

After only three seasons, “Star Trek” was canceled in 1969. In its afterlife, it became far more popular, sparking additional TV series and more than a dozen feature films.

Nichols appeared in 66 episodes of the original “Star Trek.” She was popular fixture at “Star Trek” conventions, where fans asked her about one plot point more than any others: the long clinch between Uhura and Capt. James Kirk that was widely thought to be TV’s first interracial kiss.

The first thing people want to talk about is the first interracial kiss and what it did for them.

— Nichelle Nichols

“The first thing people want to talk about is the first interracial kiss and what it did for them,” she said in a 2010 interview for the Archive of American Television. “And they thought of the world differently — they thought of people differently.”

First aired on Nov. 22, 1968, the episode called “Plato’s Stepchildren” featured a race of aliens who worshiped the earthly philosopher Plato. In their study of humanity, they wanted to observe human intimacy — and telekinetically forced Uhura and Kirk, played by William Shatner, to kiss.

By the standards of the day, it was a potentially explosive scene. Just one year earlier, the Supreme Court struck down state bans on interracial marriage. “Star Trek” producers were so worried about public reaction that they tried to film one version of the scene with the kiss and another with only an embrace, for use on stations in the South.

However, the kiss-less approach was thwarted when, in take after take, Nichols and Shatner deliberately flubbed their lines.

In her autobiography, “Beyond Uhura,” Nichols recalled Shatner hamming it up strategically: “Bill shook me and hissed menacingly in his best ham-fisted Kirkian staccato delivery, ‘I! WON’T! KISS! YOU! I! WON’T! KISS! YOU!’ It was absolutely awful, and we were hysterical and ecstatic.”

Finally, a seemingly usable take was filmed and everyone went home for the evening. Only the next day did producers realize that Shatner had crossed his eyes as the camera caught his face during the non-kiss. At that point, executives abandoned their Southern strategy.

“I guess they figured we were going to be canceled in a few months anyway,” Nichols said. “And so the kiss stayed.”

The anticipated backlash never arose. The scene became more famous as time went on, even though TV historians point to a number of previous, less heralded, interracial TV kisses, including a peck on the cheek from Sammy Davis Jr. to Nancy Sinatra a few months earlier.

Nichelle Nichols, turning 85 today and still busy acting, talks about life after ‘Star Trek’

Dec. 28, 2017

Born into a large family in Robbins, Ill., on Dec. 28, 1932, Grace Dell Nichols adopted the name Nichelle as a teenager. Her father, Samuel Nichols, served as mayor and chief magistrate of the small Chicago suburb, which was founded in 1917 as a haven for Black American families.

A student of ballet and Afro-Cuban dancing, young Nichelle appeared in a revue at Chicago’s Sherman House hotel, where she caught the eye of the renowned Duke Ellington. As a teenager, she sang and danced with Ellington’s touring company and later performed with jazz great Lionel Hampton’s orchestra.

In the 1950s, Nichols appeared at nightclubs throughout the U.S. and Canada. She did an opening act for comedian Redd Foxx and danced in Otto Preminger’s screen version of “Porgy and Bess” in 1959. In 1963, she was cast in an episode of “The Lieutenant,” a TV show written by Gene Roddenberry , who later created “Star Trek.” The two had a fleeting romance that turned into a longtime friendship; in 1966, he asked her to join the crew of the Starship Enterprise.

They agreed to name her character Uhura — a variant of Uhuru, a Swahili word for freedom.

After one season, Nichols was fed up. Her character didn’t seem all that important and her lines were sparse. Besides, her heart lay in musical comedies and she yearned for Broadway.

A New Enterprise : Nichelle Nichols reflects on her influences, from Josephine Baker to Mahalia Jackson

Nichelle Nichols, mercurially slipping in and out of wigs and costumes, vocally unleashes Ella and Eartha and Lena and Bessie and 10 other lustrous women of song in a unique cabaret show at the Westwood Playhouse that takes Nichols back to her musical theater roots.

Feb. 18, 1990

She stuck it out, though, through the very last episode. “When you have a man like Martin Luther King say you can’t leave a show, it’s daunting,” she told USA Today in 1994. “It humbled my heart and I couldn’t leave.”

The year after their chance meeting at the NAACP banquet, Nichols sang at King’s funeral.

After the original “Star Trek” ended, Nichols embraced her role at “Star Trek” events. At a Trek convention in Chicago, a talk by NASA scientist Jesco von Puttkamer inspired her to embrace NASA as well.

“For someone who used to think that the only civilian benefits of the space program were Teflon and Tang, it’s funny that I became a NASA missionary,” she told the Chicago Tribune years later.

A recruitment drive led by Nichols in 1977 drew applications from more than 2,600 women and minority astronaut hopefuls. They included Sally Ride , the first American woman in space; and three of the astronauts who died in the 1986 Challenger space shuttle explosion: Judith Resnik, Ronald McNair and Ellison Onizuka .

Nichols married tap dancer Foster Johnson in 1951 and songwriter Duke Mondy in 1968. Both marriages ended in divorce. A brother, Thomas Nichols, died in the 1997 mass suicide of the Heaven’s Gate cult at Rancho Santa Fe, near San Diego. Survivors include son Kyle, whose announcement of Nichols’ death likened his mother’s light to “the ancient galaxies now being seen for the first time” — something from which present and future generations could “enjoy, learn from, and draw inspiration.”

Inside the heartbreaking conservatorship battle of a ‘Star Trek’ legend

Nichelle Nichols, the beloved Lt. Uhura on ‘Star Trek,’ is living with dementia and struggling financially. Three parties fight to control her fate.

Aug. 15, 2021

In addition to her “Star Trek” and NASA work, Nichols recorded an album, wrote two science fiction novels and created “Reflections,” a one-woman stage tribute to Black American singers including Ma Rainey, Bessie Smith, Josephine Baker, Mahalia Jackson, Ella Fitzgerald, Lena Horne — and herself.

But Nichols’ most lasting legacy may be in the memories of people like Mae C. Jemison, an astronaut who became a close friend.

In 1992, Jemison boarded the space shuttle Endeavour and became the first Black American woman in space. In a tribute to the woman who had inspired her, Jemison started each shift of her eight-day trip with the announcement that had become Nichols’ signature line as the Enterprise blazed past strange new worlds:

“Hailing frequencies open!”

Chawkins is a former Times staff writer.

More to Read

Barbara Rush, ‘It Came From Outer Space’ and ‘Peyton Place’ actor, dies at 97

April 3, 2024

Louis Gossett Jr., ‘An Officer and a Gentleman’ star who broke barriers in Hollywood, dies

March 29, 2024

‘Star Trek’ actor Kenneth Mitchell dies at 49

Feb. 25, 2024

Start your day right

Sign up for Essential California for the L.A. Times biggest news, features and recommendations in your inbox six days a week.

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

A former obituary writer, Steve Chawkins joined the Los Angeles Times in 1987 after working as a reporter and editor at the Santa Fe Reporter in New Mexico and the Rocky Mountain News in Denver. He has been a roving state correspondent and a columnist and reporter in the Ventura County edition. He also was managing editor of the Ventura Star-Free Press. He graduated in 1969 from Trinity College in Hartford, Conn. Chawkins left The Times in 2015.

More From the Los Angeles Times

Mandisa, ‘American Idol’ star and Grammy-winning Christian music singer, dies at 47

April 19, 2024

Dickey Betts, guitarist and founding member of the Allman Brothers Band, dies 80

April 18, 2024

Carl Erskine, Dodgers pitcher and advocate for those with special needs, dies at 97

April 16, 2024

Whitey Herzog, Hall of Fame old-school manager of Cardinals and Royals, dies at 92

Nichelle Nichols, trail-blazing Star Trek actress, dead at 89

Lt. uhura role broke stereotypes about black women, featured iconic interracial kiss.

Social Sharing

Nichelle Nichols, who broke barriers for Black women in Hollywood when she played communications officer Lt. Uhura on the original Star Trek  television series, has died. She was 89.

Her son Kyle Johnson said Nichols died Saturday in Silver City, N.M.

"Last night, my mother, Nichelle Nichols, succumbed to natural causes and passed away. Her light however, like the ancient galaxies now being seen for the first time, will remain for us and future generations to enjoy, learn from, and draw inspiration," Johnson wrote on his mother's official Facebook page Sunday.

"Hers was a life well lived and as such a model for us all."

Her role in the 1966-69 series as Lt. Uhura earned Nichols a lifelong position of honour with the series' rabid fans, known as Trekkers and Trekkies. It also earned her accolades for breaking stereotypes that had limited Black women to acting roles as servants and included an interracial onscreen kiss with co-star William Shatner that was unheard of at the time.

Many actors become stars, but few stars can move a nation. Nichelle Nichols showed us the extraordinary power of Black women and paved the way for a better future for all women in media. Thank you, Nichelle. We will miss you. <a href="https://t.co/KhUf4YM6pX">pic.twitter.com/KhUf4YM6pX</a> &mdash; @RealLyndaCarter

"I shall have more to say about the trailblazing, incomparable Nichelle Nichols, who shared the bridge with us as Lt. Uhura of the USS Enterprise, and who passed today at age 89," George Takei wrote on Twitter.

"For today, my heart is heavy, my eyes shining like the stars you now rest among, my dearest friend."

• q Hailing Frequencies Open! Nichelle Nichols on Star Trek at 50

Takei played Sulu in the original Star Trek  series alongside Nichols. But her impact was felt beyond her immediate co-stars, and many others in the Star Trek  world also tweeted their condolences.

Celia Rose Gooding, who currently plays Uhura in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds , wrote on Twitter that Nichols "made room for so many of us. She was the reminder that not only can we reach the stars, but our influence is essential to their survival. Forget shaking the table — she built it."

Like other original cast members, Nichols also appeared in six big-screen spinoffs starting in 1979 with Star Trek: The Motion Picture  and frequented Star Trek  fan conventions. She also served for many years as a NASA recruiter, helping bring minorities and women into the astronaut corps.

More recently, she had a recurring role on television's Heroes , playing the great-aunt of a young boy with mystical powers.

The original Star Trek  premiered on NBC on Sept. 8, 1966. Its multicultural, multiracial cast was creator Gene Roddenberry's message to viewers that in the far-off future — the 23rd century — human diversity would be fully accepted.

Nichelle Nichols speaks about 50th anniversary of Star Trek on CBC News Network

"I think many people took it into their hearts … that what was being said on TV at that time was a reason to celebrate," Nichols said in 1992 when a Star Trek  exhibit was on view at the Smithsonian Institution.

She often recalled how Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. was a fan of the show and praised her role. She met him at a civil rights gathering in 1967, at a time when she had decided not to return for the show's second season.

"When I told him I was going to miss my co-stars and I was leaving the show, he became very serious and said, 'You cannot do that,"' she told The Tulsa (Okla.) World in a 2008 interview.

"'You've changed the face of television forever, and therefore, you've changed the minds of people,"' she said the civil rights leader told her.

"That foresight Dr. King had was a lightning bolt in my life," Nichols said.

Iconic kiss

During the show's third season, Nichols's character and Shatner's Capt. James Kirk shared what was described as the first interracial kiss to be broadcast on a U.S. television series. In the episode, Plato's Stepchildren , their characters, who always maintained a platonic relationship, were forced into the kiss by aliens who were controlling their actions.

"The characters themselves were not freaking out because a Black woman was kissing a white man," Eric Deggans, a television critic for National Public Radio, told The Associated Press in 2018. "In this utopian-like future, we solved this issue. We're beyond it. That was a wonderful message to send."

Worried about reaction from Southern television stations, showrunners wanted to film a second take of the scene where the kiss happened off-screen. But Nichols said in her book, Beyond Uhura: Star Trek and Other Memories , that she and Shatner deliberately flubbed lines to force the original take to be used.

Despite concerns, the episode aired without blowback. In fact, it got the most "fan mail that Paramount had ever gotten on Star Trek for one episode," Nichols said in a 2010 interview with the Archive of American Television.

Controversial conservatorship

Born Grace Dell Nichols in Robbins, Ill., Nichols hated being called "Gracie," which everyone insisted on, she said in the 2010 interview. When she was a teen her mother told her she had wanted to name her Michelle, but thought she ought to have alliterative initials like Marilyn Monroe, whom Nichols loved. Hence, "Nichelle."

Nichols first worked professionally as a singer and dancer in Chicago at age 14, moving on to New York nightclubs and working for a time with the Duke Ellington and Lionel Hampton bands before coming to Hollywood for her film debut in 1959's Porgy and Bess , the first of several small film and TV roles that led up to her Star Trek  stardom.

Nichols was known as being unafraid to stand up to Shatner on the set when others complained that he was stealing scenes and camera time. They later learned she had a strong supporter in the show's creator.

In her 1994 book, Beyond Uhura , she said she met Roddenberry when she guest starred on his show The Lieutenant , and the two had an affair a couple of years before Star Trek  began. The two remained lifelong close friends.

Nichols was a regular at Star Trek  conventions and events into her 80s, but her schedule became limited starting in 2018 when her son announced that she was suffering from advanced dementia.

Nichols was placed under a court conservatorship in the control of her son Johnson, who said her mental decline made her unable to manage her affairs or make public appearances.

Some, including Nichols's managers and her friend, film producer and actor Angelique Fawcett, objected to the conservatorship and sought more access to Nichols and to records of Johnson's financial and other moves on her behalf. Her name was at times invoked at courthouse rallies that sought the freeing of Britney Spears from her own conservatorship.

But the court consistently sided with Johnson, and over the objections of Fawcett allowed him to move Nichols to New Mexico, where she lived with him in her final years.

Watch CBS News

Nichelle Nichols, groundbreaking "Star Trek" star, dies at age 89

Updated on: August 1, 2022 / 7:09 PM EDT / CBS News

Nichelle Nichols, who portrayed Uhura on "Star Trek" in a groundbreaking role for Black actresses before going on to help recruit people of color and women for NASA in real life, has died, her representatives confirmed to CBS News. She was 89.

"I regret to inform you that a great light in the firmament no longer shines for us as it has for so many years," her son, Kyle Johnson, posted on Nichols' official Facebook page. Nichols died of natural causes, according to Johnson.

"Her light however, like the ancient galaxies now being seen for the first time, will remain for us and future generations to enjoy, learn from, and draw inspiration. Hers was a life well lived and as such a model for us all," he wrote.

Nichols' "Star Trek" costar George Takei tweeted, "my heart is heavy, my eyes shining like the stars you now rest among, my dearest friend."

After "Star Trek," Nichols went on to become a recruiter for NASA, playing a key role in helping recruit people of color and female astronauts. 

Civil rights attorney Ben Crump and director Todd Thompson, who both served as executive producers of the documentary "Women in Motion: Nichelle Nichols, Star Trek and the Remaking of NASA," called her story "monumental."   

Nichols portrayed U.S.S. Enterprise communications officer Lt. Nyota Uhura on the "Star Trek" television series from 1966-1969. She also reprised the role in six movies from the iconic sci-fi franchise.  

Nichols was one of the first Black actresses to star in a primetime television show, and she and "Star Trek" made history with television's first interracial kiss in 1968.

"She was the third-highest ranking member in the space command," Crump told " CBS Saturday Morning" in 2021 . "I mean, you talk about every little Black boy and girl running to the TV to say, 'hello that's a Black woman, and she's in charge?'"

"Star Trek" suffered from poor ratings during its initial run and, according to "CBS Saturday Morning," Nichols had been contemplating leaving the show after the first season to go to Broadway. But then she met Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a devout Trekkie, who pleaded with her to stay, saying it was the only show he watched with his children. 

"He said, 'you don't understand the effect that you're having, not only on Black people, not only on young women, but on everybody,'" she said in the documentary. 

As "Star Trek" became more popular, members of NASA took notice — and had become fans, attending the "Star Trek" conventions. Nichols once gave a speech to members of NASA, and Crump said that she noticed there were no women or minorities in the audience.

"I said, 'where are my people?'" Nichols said in the documentary. "I meant that then and I mean it now."

The head of NASA was in the audience and took notice, offering her the opportunity to recruit for them. Nichols formed the company "Women in Motion," traveling throughout the country to recruit women and people of color for NASA. 

The effort paid off. In 1978, NASA recruited 35 people, including for the first time, six women and four people of color. 

"This might sound a little corny, but it felt like my children," she said in the "Women in Motion" documentary. "And my heart, it pounded. And I knew the world would never be the same again. We would go on to great heights — and to think I had the slightest thing to do with it makes me know that all things good are possible." 

More from CBS News

Girl, 7, starts lemonade stand to raise money for mother's headstone

Dickey Betts, co-founder of the Allman Brothers Band, dies at 80

1985 homicide victim found in shallow grave in Florida identified

Unusual playing cards in Mississippi jails aim to solve cold cases

Nichelle Nichols, Pioneering ‘Star Trek’ Actress, Dies at 89

She made history as one of the first Black women to appear in a leading role on television

Daily Correspondent

Nichelle Nichols, who captivated television audiences as Nyota Uhura in the original “ Star Trek ” series, died on July 30 at age 89.

“[A] great light in the firmament no longer shines for us as it has for so many years,” says her son, Kyle Johnson, in a statement . “Last night, my mother, Nichelle Nichols, succumbed to natural causes and passed away. Her light, however, like the ancient galaxies now being seen for the first time, will remain for us and future generations to enjoy, learn from and draw inspiration.”

He adds: “Hers was a life well lived and as such a model for us all.”

Nichols left a lasting mark on television, science fiction and the field of science more broadly. She served as an inspiration “for young Black people whose dreams of space science and travel were emboldened by her character’s futuristic adventures,” as critic Gene Seymour writes for  CNN .

Grace Dell Nichols was born in a Chicago suburb in 1932. As a teenager fed up with being called Gracie, she adopted Nichelle as her first name. With an impressive  four-octave vocal range and a love for ballet and musical theater, Nichols began performing in Chicago clubs when she was just 14 years old. She briefly worked as a dancer in Duke Ellington ’s touring orchestra.

In the early 1960s, she moved to Los Angeles, where “ Star Trek ” creator  Gene Roddenberry took note of her acting skills. She landed a role in Roddenberry’s series “ The Lieutenant ”—and then, a few years later, she landed another one in “Star Trek.”

Amid the racial tensions of the civil rights movement, Nichols played Lieutenant Nyota Uhura, a communications officer who was fourth in command of the Starship Enterprise . Martin Luther King Jr. once said that Uhura was the “ first non-stereotypical role portrayed by a Black woman in television history.” 

After a successful first season in 1966, Nichols decided to leave the show to pursue her musical theater dreams. While attending a fundraiser, however, she ran into King, who ultimately helped convince her to stay on the show.

“He said, ‘You cannot leave,’” Nichols told  Smithsonian magazine ’s Arcynta Ali Childs in 2011. “‘Don’t you see what this man [Roddenberry] has brought? He has changed the face of television forever, unless you leave.’”

King went on, Nichols recalled, to say that she had a “God-given opportunity to change the face of television, change the way we think.”

In 1968, during the show’s last season, Nichols and William Shatner (who played Captain Kirk) shared one of the first interracial kisses in television history. 

When the show ended after three seasons, Nichols continued to pave the way for women and people of color by working with NASA . With Nichols’ involvement, which included an appearance in a promotional recruitment video, the space agency began hiring more diverse astronauts, including  Guion Bluford , the first Black American in space, and  Sally Ride , the first American woman in space.

“Nichelle’s advocacy transcended television and transformed NASA,” says NASA administrator Bill Nelson in a statement . “After Apollo 11, Nichelle made it her mission to inspire women and people of color to join this agency, change the face of STEM and explore the cosmos. Nichelle’s mission is NASA’s mission.”

To this day, the agency is still “guided by the legacy of Nichelle Nichols,” adds Nelson.

Nichols later reprised her role as Uhura in Star Trek: The Motion Picture and five movie sequels produced through 1991.

We lived long and prospered together. pic.twitter.com/MgLjOeZ98X — George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) July 31, 2022

As news of Nichols’ death spread, friends, fans and colleagues began sharing tributes to the actress. George Takei , who acted alongside Nichols in “Star Trek” as Hikaru Sulu, the Entreprise ’s helmsman, describes her as “trailblazing” and “incomparable.”

"For today, my heart is heavy, my eyes shining like the stars you now rest among, my dearest friend,” writes Takei on  Twitter .

Television director Adam Nimoy , whose late father  Leonard Nimoy played the stoic Vulcan  Spock on the franchise for nearly 50 years, posted a  photo on Twitter of the two actors on set, writing that it is his favorite photo of the pair. 

He adds, “The importance of Nichelle’s legacy cannot be over-emphasized.” 

Get the latest stories in your inbox every weekday.

Sarah Kuta | READ MORE

Sarah Kuta is a writer and editor based in Longmont, Colorado. She covers history, science, travel, food and beverage, sustainability, economics and other topics.

George Takei, William Shatner, J.J. Abrams and More ‘Star Trek’ Figures Pay Tribute to Nichelle Nichols

By J. Kim Murphy

J. Kim Murphy

• Taylor Swift and Post Malone Burn Poems and Smash Windows in ‘Fortnight’ Music Video 7 hours ago
• Box Office: ‘Civil War’ Ignites With $10.7 Million Opening Day 7 days ago
• Eleanor Coppola, ‘Hearts of Darkness’ Director and Francis Ford Coppola’s Wife, Dies at 87 1 week ago

George Takei and J.J. Abrams were among the major figures of the “ Star Trek ” franchise to pay tribute to Nichelle Nichols . The actress, who portrayed the capable and commanding Enterprise crew member Nyota Uhura, died Saturday night at the age of 89. Nichols portrayed Uhura across the original series and the first six “Trek” films. She also voiced the character in “Star Trek: The Animated Series.”

“Last night, my mother, Nichelle Nichols, succumbed to natural causes and passed away,” Nichols’ son, Kyle Johnson, wrote in a statement on the actress’ official Facebook page. “Her light however, like the ancient galaxies now being seen for the first time, will remain for us and future generations to enjoy, learn from, and draw inspiration. Hers was a life well lived and as such a model for us all.”

Nichols’ “Star Trek” costar George Takei, who portrayed Hikaru Sulu across the original series and films, was one of the first voices to pay tribute to the actress.

Popular on Variety

“I shall have more to say about the trailblazing, incomparable Nichelle Nichols, who shared the bridge with us as Lt. Uhura of the USS Enterprise,” Takei wrote. “For today, my heart is heavy, my eyes shining like the stars you now rest among, my dearest friend.”

I shall have more to say about the trailblazing, incomparable Nichelle Nichols, who shared the bridge with us as Lt. Uhura of the USS Enterprise, and who passed today at age 89. For today, my heart is heavy, my eyes shining like the stars you now rest among, my dearest friend. — George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) July 31, 2022

“Star Trek” star William Shatner, who Nichols shared one of the first interracial kisses on television with, also voiced his condolences.

“She was a beautiful woman and played an admirable character that did so much for redefining social issues both here in the US and throughout the world,” Shatner wrote.

I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Nichelle. She was a beautiful woman & played an admirable character that did so much for redefining social issues both here in the US & throughout the world. I will certainly miss her. Sending my love and condolences to her family. Bill — William Shatner (@WilliamShatner) July 31, 2022

Celia Rose Gooding, who portrays Uhura in the new Paramount+ series “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds,” paid tribute to the actress who originated the role.

She made room for so many of us. She was the reminder that not only can we reach the stars, but our influence is essential to their survival. Forget shaking the table, she built it! #RIPNichelleNichols 🕊✨🖖🏾 pic.twitter.com/k1aVw15w3d — ALIEN SUPERSTAR CRG (@celiargooding) July 31, 2022

Georgia politician and diehard “Trek” fan Stacey Abrams shared a photograph of her and Nichols, hailing the star as a “champion, warrior and tremendous actor.”

One of my most treasured photos – Godspeed to Nichelle Nichols, champion, warrior and tremendous actor. Her kindness and bravery lit the path for many. May she forever dwell among the stars. #RIPNichelle #Uhura pic.twitter.com/nFXHif8HEC — Stacey Abrams (@staceyabrams) July 31, 2022

“Star Trek: Voyager” star Kate Mulgrew called Nichols a “trailblazer who navigated a very challenging trail with grit, grace and a gorgeous fire we are not likely to see again.”

Nichelle Nichols was The First. She was a trailblazer who navigated a very challenging trail with grit, grace, and a gorgeous fire we are not likely to see again. May she Rest In Peace. #NichelleNichols pic.twitter.com/DONSz6IV2b — Kate Mulgrew (@TheKateMulgrew) July 31, 2022

J.J. Abrams, who helmed the 2009 “Star Trek” reboot and its 2013 follow-up “Star Trek Into Darkness,” called Nichols “a remarkable woman in a remarkable role.”

A remarkable woman in a remarkable role. Nichelle, you will be deeply missed. Sending much love and respect. pic.twitter.com/ZRnMblXx0Z — JJ Abrams (@jjabrams) July 31, 2022

Marina Sirtis, who portrayed Counselor Deanna Troi in “Star Trek: The Next Generation” and its four feature film adaptations, stated that Nichols “opened the door for the rest of us.”

RIP @NichelleIsUhura . You led the way and opened the door for the rest of us who followed in your wake. We will be forever grateful. My heart is broken💔😢 — Marina Sirtis (@Marina_Sirtis) July 31, 2022

Lynda Carter, who portrayed Wonder Woman in the 1970s DC Comics television series, shared that Nichols “showed us the extraordinary power of Black women and paved the way for a better future for all women in media.”

Many actors become stars, but few stars can move a nation. Nichelle Nichols showed us the extraordinary power of Black women and paved the way for a better future for all women in media. Thank you, Nichelle. We will miss you. pic.twitter.com/KhUf4YM6pX — Lynda Carter (@RealLyndaCarter) July 31, 2022

Alex Kurtzman, who serves as lead executive producer on the ongoing “Star Trek” shows for Paramount+, called Nichols a “singular inspiration” and recounted the innumerable people he’s encountered that have cited the actress as an inspiration to pursue careers in science, writing, education and entertainment.

Nichelle was a singular inspiration. She’s the one who really opened my eyes to what Star Trek is and can be. I can’t tell you how many people have told me she’s the reason they became… an astronaut, a scientist, a writer, a linguist, an engineer… it goes on and on. 1/2 — Alex Kurtzman (@Alex_Kurtzman) July 31, 2022

See more tributes to Nichols below:

My favorite photo of Dad and Nichelle Nichols on set. The importance of Nichelle's legacy cannot be over-emphasized. She was much loved and will be missed. pic.twitter.com/1zlTd4F9BD — Adam Nimoy (@adam_nimoy) July 31, 2022

My love for the original Star Trek is profound. Nichelle Nichols was a ground-breaker and a glorious ambassador for her show, her role and science all her life. And a truly lovely person. May she have a wonderful adventure to the final frontier. #ripnichellenichols — jason alexander (@IJasonAlexander) July 31, 2022

Trail blazer Legend 🙏🏽 My heart goes out to her family and friends God speed Nichelle 🌺 pic.twitter.com/L6y0aRaRs1 — Karl Urban (@KarlUrban) July 31, 2022

RIP #nichellenichols You were a beautiful pioneer on Earth as you were in space. xo ✨ pic.twitter.com/qhZ5tujAXs — Kim Cattrall (@KimCattrall) July 31, 2022

Thank you for giving so many of us a place in the universe. #NichelleNichols pic.twitter.com/TycRdKOOfH — Tawny “My Name is Tawny” Newsome (@TrondyNewman) July 31, 2022

We celebrate the life of Nichelle Nichols, Star Trek actor, trailblazer, and role model, who symbolized to so many what was possible. She partnered with us to recruit some of the first women and minority astronauts, and inspired generations to reach for the stars. pic.twitter.com/pmQaKDb5zw — NASA (@NASA) July 31, 2022

Nichelle Nichols told us that we belonged in outer space. We are limitless. The heavens have gained an Uhura today. — Colman Domingo (@colmandomingo) July 31, 2022

More From Our Brands

Taylor swift’s ‘tortured poets department’ is spotify’s most streamed album in a single day, this insane hydrogen hypercar prototype is now headed to auction, sprinter gabby thomas says diamond league flosports deal is a drag, be tough on dirt but gentle on your body with the best soaps for sensitive skin, rupaul’s drag race finale recap: did the right queen win season 16, verify it's you, please log in.

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

Nichelle Nichols, who played Lt Uhura in original Star Trek, dies aged 89

Actor achieved worldwide fame and broke ground for Black women while playing Nyota Uhura in the original TV hit

Nichelle Nichols, who played communications officer Lt Nyota Uhura on the original Star Trek series and helped to create a new era for television in the 1960s, has died in New Mexico at the age of 89.

Nichols’ son, Kyle Johnson, announced her death on Sunday via Facebook , saying: “I regret to inform you that a great light in the firmament no longer shines for us as it has for so many years.” Nichols’s death, on Saturday night in Silver City, was later confirmed by her agent.

Johnson said his mother had succumbed to natural causes, seven years after suffered a stroke.

“Her light however, like the ancient galaxies now being seen for the first time, will remain for us and future generations to enjoy, learn from and draw inspiration.”

Nichols will be remembered chiefly for her role in the sci-fi adventure series, but she began her career as a dancer and nightclub singer.

US president Joe Biden paid tribute to Nichols, saying she “shattered stereotypes”. “Our nation has lost a trailblazer of stage and screen who redefined what is possible for Black Americans and women”.

“Our nation is forever indebted to inspiring artists like Nichelle Nichols, who show us a future where unity, dignity, and respect are cornerstones of every society.”

Co-star George Takei tweeted that his heart was heavy, “my eyes shining like the stars you now rest among, my dearest friend” and he would have more to say soon on the “incomparable” trailblazer.

I shall have more to say about the trailblazing, incomparable Nichelle Nichols, who shared the bridge with us as Lt. Uhura of the USS Enterprise, and who passed today at age 89. For today, my heart is heavy, my eyes shining like the stars you now rest among, my dearest friend. — George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) July 31, 2022

Prominent Georgia Democrat and voting rights organizer Stacey Abrams , who is running again for the state governorship and is a longtime Star Trek fan, tweeted a picture of herself with Nichols.

“One of my most treasured photos – Godspeed to Nichelle Nichols, champion, warrior and tremendous actor. Her kindness and bravery lit the path for many,” she wrote. “May she forever dwell among the stars.”

One of my most treasured photos - Godspeed to Nichelle Nichols, champion, warrior and tremendous actor. Her kindness and bravery lit the path for many. May she forever dwell among the stars. #RIPNichelle #Uhura pic.twitter.com/nFXHif8HEC — Stacey Abrams (@staceyabrams) July 31, 2022

Star Trek brought Nichols enduring recognition and helped to break down some racial barriers in the television business, as they were rampant elsewhere.

She shared one of the first lip-to-lip interracial kisses on television – with co-star William Shatner, aka Captain Kirk. The kiss at the time was considered a forward-looking move on the part of the actors, as well as Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry and the network that broadcast the show, NBC.

The episode in question, titled Plato’s Stepchildren, aired in 1968 and was fashioned in a way that gave those involved something of an out from any potential discriminatory backlash: Uhura and Kirk did not choose to kiss but were instead made to do so after being inhabited by aliens.

Roddenberry had reportedly insisted on an integrated crew for Starship Enterprise – a bold move given that interracial marriage was still illegal in 17 US states. Only a year earlier, Variety reported, Sammy Davis Jr had gone no further than kiss Nancy Sinatra on the cheek on Movin’ With Nancy.

The original Star Trek premiered on NBC on 8 September 1966. Its multicultural, multiracial cast was creator Gene Roddenberry’s message to viewers that in the far-off future, the 23rd century, human diversity would be fully accepted.

“I think many people took it into their hearts … that what was being said on TV at that time was a reason to celebrate,” Nichols said in 1992 when a Star Trek exhibit was on view at the Smithsonian Institution.

She often recalled how civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr was a fan of the show and praised her role.

She met him at a civil rights gathering in 1967, at a time when she had decided not to return for the show’s second season.

“When I told him I was going to miss my co-stars and I was leaving the show, he became very serious and said ‘You cannot do that’,” she told The Tulsa World in a 2008 interview.

“‘You’ve changed the face of television forever, and therefore, you’ve changed the minds of people’,” she said the civil rights leader told her.

Nichols said: “That foresight Dr King had was a lightning bolt in my life.”

More recently, she had a recurring role on television’s Heroes, playing the great-aunt of a young boy with mystical powers.

Nichols, trained as a dancer and also worked as a nightclub chanteuse, with the Washington Post reporting that she thought being cast in Star Trek would be a “nice stepping stone” to Broadway stage fame, not realizing that the TV show and her character would be an iconic and enduring smash hit.

Actor Wilson Cruz wrote on Twitter that “representation matters”.

Nichols “modeled it for us. With her very presence and her grace she shone a light on who we as people of color are and inspired us to reach for our potential,” he wrote . “Rest well, glittering diamond in the sky.”

Before we understood how much #RepresentationMatters #NichelleNichols modeled it for us. With her very presence & her grace she shone a light on who we as people of color are & inspired us to reach for our potential. Rest well glittering diamond in the sky https://t.co/DmeLFbg825 — Wilson Cruz (@wcruz73) July 31, 2022

The Smithsonian tweeted a picture of Lt Uhura’s iconic red mini-dress and noted that Nichols made “history for African American women in TV and film. Nichols also volunteered to recruit women and people of color for Nasa.”

Today we remember Nichelle Nichols. She starred as Lieutenant Uhura on "Star Trek" wearing this uniform now in our @NMAAHC , making history for African American women in TV and film. Nichols also volunteered to recruit women and people of color for NASA. #BecauseOfHerStory pic.twitter.com/fZZqfGlomz — Smithsonian (@smithsonian) July 31, 2022

Nichols was born Grace Dell Nichols in Robbins, Illinois, on December 28 1932. According to the National Space Society , she sang as a 16-year-old with jazz great Duke Ellington – her career getting under way at an early age – in a ballet she created, and later joined his band.

Her big break in the 1961 Chicago musical Kicks and Co. Nichols later appeared in the title role in Carmen Jones and in a New York staging of Porgy and Bess as well as in Jean Genet’s The Blacks, and landed small film roles.

Nichols was married and divorced twice, and is survived by her son, Kyle Johnson.

• US television

Most viewed

Nichelle Nichols, groundbreaking 'Star Trek' actor, dead at 89

Nichelle Nichols, the groundbreaking actor who played Lieutenant Nyota Uhura on the original "Star Trek" series, has died.

She was 89.

Nichols' death was confirmed on Sunday by her son, Kyle Johnson, on her website. Johnson said his mother died of natural causes.

"Her light, however, like the ancient galaxies now being seen for the first time, will remain for us and future generations to enjoy, learn from, and draw inspiration," Johnson said in a statement posted to the website.

Johnson said his mother's life was "well-lived and as such a model for" everyone. He asked for privacy for the family.

Nichols and her “Star Trek” character Uhura broke barriers as one of the first Black female leads on television.

Rod Roddenberry, executive producer of the current iterations of "Star Trek" and son of the show's creator Gene Roddenberry mourned Nichols' passing on Sunday.

"It is with great sorrow that we report the passing on the legendary icon Nichelle Nichols," he tweeted. "No words."

Nichols, was born in Illinois as Grace Nichols. She was discovered in Chicago by composer and musician Duke Ellington as a teenager while working as a dancer and choreographer, according to the National Space Society , for which Nichols was on the board of governors.

"As I learned to believe in my talent, my voice, myself, I learned that I could make others believe as well," Nichols wrote on her website .

Prior to appearing in "Star Trek," Nichols was an accomplished dancer but only had a handful of acting roles.

Nichols appeared on "Star Trek" in its debut season in 1966. Initially, she considered leaving the show, feeling her character lacked depth. However, after meeting Martin Luther King, Jr., who was a fan of the show, she decided to stay.

It was then she worked alongside Roddenberry to give Uhura revolutionary authority and dominance, something not seen prior in that era of television.

"When I was on those wonderful sets with all of the cast members, the universe of Star Trek began to feel not so much a fantasy but an opportunity to lay the groundwork for what we might actually achieve by the 23rd Century … a bold aspiration and an affirmation of Uhura as we eagerly await her arrival," Nichols wrote on her website.

One moment that broke boundaries, in 1968, was a kiss between Nichols' Uhura and and William Shatner's Capt. James T. Kirk on the episode “Plato’s Stepchildren.” The episode helped to re-shape what viewers thought of as acceptable on television and was an early statement about the acceptance of interracial marriages.

After the original "Star Trek" ended, Nichols became a spokesperson for NASA, according to her website. She helped to recruit astronauts and appeared in PSAs.

NASA credited Nichols with helping to recruit Sally Ride and Frederick Gregory, according to the Los Angeles Times .

"In motivating them as others once did me, it’s as if my life had come back, full circle, to where the dreams of a young woman began," she wrote about the experience on her website.

On Sunday NASA memorialized Nichols as a global inspiration who helped it evolve.

"We celebrate the life of Nichelle Nichols, Star Trek actor, trailblazer, and role model, who symbolized to so many what was possible," the agency tweeted. "She partnered with us to recruit some of the first women and minority astronauts, and inspired generations to reach for the stars."

In her autobiography, she wrote that she loved attending "Star Trek" conventions, the LA Times reported.

Following news of her death, co-stars and admirers alike mourned her loss.

"I shall have more to say about the trailblazing, incomparable Nichelle Nichols, who shared the bridge with us as Lt. Uhura of the USS Enterprise, and who passed today at age 89. For today, my heart is heavy, my eyes shining like the stars you now rest among, my dearest friend," tweeted George Takei, who played alongside Nichols as "Star Trek" helmsman Hikaru Sulu.

Bernice King, daughter of Martin Luther King, Jr., praised Nichols for her representation.

"Representation matters. Excellence in representation matters even more. Thank you, #NichelleNichols ," she wrote. "Rest well, ancestor."

Kalhan Rosenblatt is a reporter covering youth and internet culture for NBC News, based in New York.

By providing your information, you agree to our Terms of Use and our Privacy Policy . We use vendors that may also process your information to help provide our services. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA Enterprise and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Nichelle Nichols, Who Played Uhura on Star Trek , Dead at 89

Dave nemetz, west coast bureau chief.

• Share on Facebook
• Show more sharing options
• Share to Flipboard
• Share on LinkedIn
• Submit to Reddit
• Post to Tumblr
• Share on WhatsApp
• Print This Page

Nichelle Nichols , who originated the role of Uhura on the original Star Trek series, has died , our sister site Variety has confirmed with Nichols’ manager and business partner Gilbert Bell. She was 89.

Nichols joined William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy in the main cast of Star Trek when it debuted on NBC in 1966. Nichols played communications officer Nyota Uhura, who helped Captain Kirk and the Enterprise crew make contact with alien lifeforms.

Nichols was a trailblazer for Black actors in science fiction: She and Shatner shared the first kiss between a white person and a Black person on television, and when Nichols considered leaving the role after Trek ‘s first season, Martin Luther King Jr. encouraged her to stay, telling her what a role model she was to Black children. Whoopi Goldberg, who went on to play Guinan on Star Trek: The Next Generation , remembered telling her family upon first watching Star Trek : “I just saw a Black woman on television, and she ain’t no maid!”

Nichols played Uhura in all three seasons of the original Star Trek and later reprised the role in six Trek movies, from 1979’s Star Trek: The Motion Picture to 1991’s Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country . Her other TV credits include Heroes , Sharknado 5 and voice work on Futurama , The Simpsons and Gargoyles .

Zoe Saldana took over the role of Uhura in the big-screen Trek reboot, starting with 2009’s Star Trek . This spring, Celia Rose Gooding debuted as Uhura on the Paramount+ spinoff Star Trek: Strange New Worlds , set several years before the original Trek series.

Cancel reply

45 comments.

Email * Your email address will not be published. We will notify you when someone replies.

What a legend, she inspired so many people. What more can you wish for? Rest in peace.

She also recruited women and minorites into NASA including first American woman in space, Sally Ride.

She may have been my first crush as a little gay boy. So absolutely fierce (and sadly so under utilized) as Uhura. RIP.

😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭

No one cares that you’re gay! Shame on you for wasting space in the comments here to make some BS marginalization statement about her career as Uhura. You couldn’t possibly even be a real fan if you believe that rubbish! Shame on you! Take your skreeching, nonsense & go sell it someplace else, & not here where fans are mourning her passing sincerely!

I LOVE that I just triggered you into into a gigantic, 5 year old child tantrum meltdown. Made my whole day.

Is that really a tantrum, though? Look at the writing style. This comes across as pretty calculated, and pretty artificial as well. “You couldn’t possibly even be a real fan”? . No native speaker would write like this. “Take your skreeching, nonsense & go sell it someplace else, & not here where fans are mourning her passing sincerely!” “Skreeching, nonsense” with a comma between the words? Note the word order, and the antiquated way of speaking (“rubbish,” for example). This is someone who learned English from a book, not by talking to people. . That doesn’t preclude a crazy from outside the English speaking world. But I read DM as a troll, and, specifically, a Russian troll.

I don’t know where my original comment posted but I did want to thank you for your post. I would rather believe that it’s Russian trolls than actual Americans posting all the hate that has come to this site

It certainly is a Russian strategy to stir up hate, since political divisiveness in the US is to their advantage. The government invests in what are called “troll farms” or “troll brigades” — a search on “Russian troll farm” will show up a lot of material, from more or less every reputable news source. . For example, the BBC notes that “Once Mr Trump was elected, investigators said the IRA [the Russian Internet Research Agency] moved to sow more discontent. It pushed two conflicting demonstrations in New York, one in support of the new president-elect and another bearing the message “Trump is NOT my President”.” . It’s appalling that people let themselves be played by these tactics. And the level of hate they’ve engendered is truly appalling. I would prefer to think that actual Americans are basically decent and willing to listen to each other, rather than falling for this kind of provocation.

You’re right that russia, china, iran and other countries have been influencing the internet as well as universities for decades but your evidence of that poster doesn’t sound accurate, a lot of people speak that way. We also have a lot of people on the spectrum that might not conform to what you think is “normal”. People are individuals and not everyone is going to sound the same; Thank God. Also the”trolls” you are talking about are not usually individuals but work for their governments and are highly educated. Also people make keyboard typos all the time and miss things when they quickly proof read a comment. You might edit a comment and forget that you were going to write something else that has you leaving a comma or other punctuation behind.

All he said was it didn’t make sense to say as someone who’s gay she was extra special to them. Also making this actress and her death all about them; which is an example of this type of self-centered, all-about-me generation. As someone who is not straight, I agree that it makes absolutely no sense why your sexuality would make her more special to you, in fact I find it offensive to say that. That being said I think the poster you are talking about should have just let it go but I can understand that hearing spoiled, entitled, self-centered people 24/7 make anything and everything all about themselves can get to you. Besides all the people talking in public all the time about their sexuality is weird and creepy. It’s almost the same as a pervert that exposes themselves in public to have a captive audience to their rapey depravity. There’s a time and place for everything you know. A little context goes a long way.

Apparently this site will keep up your Nancy Drew conspiracy about russian trolls but won’t let any post a rebuttal to the absolute nonsense.

An icon and an idol.Inspiration to many,symbol of hope and good.Rest in Peace.

Rest in peace Nichelle.

‘Hailing frequencies closed’

RIP to this wonderful woman and a very sad farewell to another icon of my youth.

Beautiful Lady. What an Inspiration! THANK YOU!

RIP. She’s sadly been gone for some time due to dementia, and I don’t think Celia Rose Gooding had the opportunity to meet with her because of that, which is a shame. . I think Nichelle would also like to be remembered for her singing career as well as her acting–she was quite successful as an in-person lounge singer, if not as a recording artist. It was very important to her over the course of her life.

So sorry to hear of her passing. I bet she gave Bill Shatner a kiss that he still hasn’t forgotten. She was a very good actor and I always thought of her as gorgeous which made all the Star Trek’s a bit more enjoyable. Thank you for telling me her first name. I don’t remember ever hearing it. Rest In Peace Nichelle. Say “hi” to Spock for me if you please..

I said the same, when hearing her first name. And thought she was gorgeous too and looked forward to seeing her every episode

She was gorgeous and regal and for sure made every episode more enjoyable! I also never remember hearing her first name, glad to know that

May she rest in peace and may her family be comforted in this time of grief.

Rest in peace, Ms. Nichols, and thank you for Uhura

Not only was she an immensely talented actress, but she was also involved in the first same sex interracial kiss between a white woman and a black woman on American TV. This really laid the foundation for a progressive Star Trek going forward.

Oh Noooooooo 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭

What a sad day.

Nichelle Nichols was one of my role models. My cars have licensed plates with the name Uhura. 2 of my Schnauzers had the names of Uhura. I am a Trekie..thanks to Gene Roddenberry. Uhuru is a Swahili term meaning freedom or independence.

R.I.P. Nichelle aka “UHURA”

This one hitting me a little harder than I thought it would. She wasn’t just remarkable on screen, but off. And maker’s sad where we’re fast approaching a day without any of the original crew. May the great bird of the galaxy bless her, and the rest live long and prosper.

Even if you’re not a Trekkie, (I’m not), everyone ought to take a moment with this. Ms. Nichols paved the way for many. Condolences to her loved ones.

Rest in Peace, Nichelle..you are an inspiration to women everywhere.

Loved your acting and your persona, I see you were very talented and accomplished as well! Rip. FATHER Bless your wonderful spirit! Bless your loved ones as well! Star Trek was 1 of my fav shows because you were on it

Loved your acting and your persona, I see you were very talented and accomplished as well! Rip. FATHER Bless your wonderful spirit! Bless your loved ones as well! Star Trek was 1 of my fav shows because you were on it, great job!!!

It is impossible for me to say how important she was. Is. She will continue to be an inspiration for generations and be a beacon of hope, kindness, and uniqueness.

A class act… RIP

May she rest in peace among the stars.

Most Popular

You may also like.

• More to Explore
• Series & Movies

Published Aug 5, 2022

Hailing Frequencies Open as the World Remembers Nichelle Nichols

Our Star Trek family, NASA, and beyond share messages of love and inspiration surrounding the late Nichols’ passing.

StarTrek.com

This week, StarTrek.com honors the late, pioneering Nichelle Nichols by reflecting on not only Nichelle’s legacy but also that of the character she portrayed, Uhura .

The incomparable talent Nichelle Nichols inspired so many generations with her trailblazing presence. Ever since she first appeared on-screen as Lt. Nyota Uhura , the Enterprise ’s communications officer in 1966, she demonstrated that a woman — a woman of color at that — had just as every right to be stationed on the Bridge in a high-ranking position in both a mainstream television series as well as the fictional world of a brighter future.

Inspiring millions across generations, Nichols provided courage, hope, and encouragement for those pursuing space in all areas whether it be acting, the sciences, or political activism. Not only did she inspire future Trek talent such as Whoopi Goldberg, Sonequa Martin-Green, Dawnn Lewis, and Celia Rose Gooding, but she also served as inspiration to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., President Barack Obama, Dr. Mae Jemison, and so many countless others. Here was the rare example of the fictional character being just as incredible as the real talent, not just the other way around.

In the days following the passing of the late great Nichelle Nichols, many people worldwide in the realm of Trek and beyond have shared what both Nichelle and Uhura have meant to them, memorializing her grace and groundbreaking presence.

Those who served aboard the same Bridge as Nichols — William Shatner, George Takei , and Walter Koenig — remembered their colleague and friend fondly.

Takei, who portrayed Sulu, shared several messages on Twitter as well as his personal site , “For today, my heart is heavy, my eyes shining like the stars you now rest among, my dearest friend,” and included an image stating, “We lived long and prospered together.”

Shatner, who portrayed Capt. James T. Kirk, shared , “I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Nichelle. She was a beautiful woman and played an admirable character that did so much for redefining social issues both here in the US and throughout the world. I will certainly miss her. Sending my love and condolences to her family.”

Koenig relayed , "My heart goes out to Nichelle's son, Kyle, Nichelle's sisters and Sky Conway who stood by and up for our dear co-worker Nichelle Nichols these very trying past years. Love always"

Adam Nimoy , the son of their late co-star Leonard Nimoy, shared an old production photo of Nichols and his father noting, “My favorite photo of Dad and Nichelle Nichols on set. The importance of Nichelle's legacy cannot be over-emphasized. She was much loved and will be missed.”

During Monday’s episode of The View , Whoopi Goldberg , who starred on Star Trek: The Next Generation , shared, “Nichelle Nichols was a trailblazer, a heroine, and an extraordinary woman — someone who inspired millions and millions of people, but who inspired me because I explained when I went to get my gig at Star Trek that Nichelle was the first Black person I’d ever seen who made it to the future. She was head of communications. And this show and this woman was the one beacon that said, ‘Yes, we’ll be there.’ And it just made me feel like that was an amazing thing. She helped propel other women to go into space. She was extraordinary and I was lucky enough to spend time with her over the years.”

Zoe Saldana , the Uhura from J.J. Abrams’ Kelvin Timeline films, took to Instagram to share a heartfelt message , “I’m saddened to learn of Nichelle Nichols’ passing. We have lost a true star- a unique artist who was ahead of her time always. She’s an icon, an activist and most importantly an amazing woman- who blazed a trail that has shown so many how to see women of color in a different light. Her strive for equality was unwavering.”

“Meeting Nichelle was truly a very special moment in my life,” continued Saldana. “Her energy was infectious every time I was in her presence. She convinced me in believing that anything was achievable if you put your heart into it. I mean, she inspired Mae Jemison to follow her dreams of becoming an astronaut and that’s exactly what Mae did. I knew I had big shoes to fill when I was chosen to play Uhura, and Nichelle made me feel safe, told me to play her with all the confidence in the world. My hope is that we continue to keep her memory alive by celebrating her amazing body of work, and by spreading the message of peace and equality amongst all people. She lived a long, impactful life and not only prospered, but helped so many others prosper too.”

“Maya Angelou once said ‘People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel,’” concluded Saldana. “I agree with this statement with the exception of Nichelle Nichols. It’ll be hard to forget what she said and hard to forget what she did, and it will certainly be impossible to forget how she made us feel. REST IN POWER QUEEN NICHELLE”

Sonequa Martin-Green , the lead star Capt. Michael Burnham on Star Trek: Discovery , revealed , “Devastated. I feel for her family and loved ones especially as I grieve this revolutionary force of a woman. Can’t put it all in a post but I’ll settle now for this: She was a hero in the true sense of the word. I owe so much to her. We all do. Her impact on the world can’t be quantified but I hope we can follow her example and carry her legacy forward.”

Celia Rose Gooding , the latest addition to the Star Trek universe who portrays the younger version of the character Nichols made iconic, Cadet Uhura, on the series Strange New Worlds , initially shared , “She made room for so many of us. She was the reminder that not only can we reach the stars, but our influence is essential to their survival. Forget shaking the table, she built it!”

Gooding further elaborated on her sentiments in a tribute essay in The Hollywood Reporter , “How often in history does one live to see the impact of their legacy? As human beings with lifetimes that stand as just a drop in the ocean of time, one rarely sees the fruits of their labor moving toward a better world for future generations. Nichelle Nichols, who died July 30 at the age of 89, serves as an incomparable exception to that notion.”

Reflecting on what Nichols’ presence on television screens in homes around the world in the ‘60s meant, Gooding stated, “As a chief officer on the flagship of Starfleet, Lt. Uhura was the cool, unflappable presence who oversaw connections between species, playing it with a beauty and grace that made her stand out in an otherwise predominantly white and male world. In the ’60s, a Black woman in a position of power was an anomaly. Nichols’ portrayal of Nyota Uhura symbolized that Black people merited a position of importance, equality and respect in the future. Martin Luther King Jr. himself knew the importance of Lt. Uhura in representing the contributions of Black people; Nichols recalled the civil rights icon telling her, ‘For the first time on television, we will be seen as we should be seen every day, as intelligent, quality, beautiful people who can sing, dance and who can go to space, who are professors, lawyers.’ Lt. Uhura quenched the thirst of Black Americans everywhere who yearned for a future in which they could see themselves living, learning and loving in a world where the color of their skin didn’t limit their future — the world that freedom fighters were grappling for in real time. She opened the doors for Black women in entertainment to be viewed as powerful, capable, beautiful and intelligent. She collaborated on NASA initiatives to recruit more women and people of color. She went above and beyond, not only playing an important Black woman in the future of space programs, but also paving the way for other astronauts, doctors and scientists to excel in their respective fields, further cementing the role of women and people of color in the scientific advancement of the present day.”

On Nichols’ legacy, Gooding added, “I’ve embraced the role of Cadet Nyota Uhura, understanding and grateful for the role Nichols played in paving the way, and the work she did to establish a proud tradition of Black women carving out a place for others to fill. I never had the chance to meet her, but I feel her presence on set every day and see her legacy reflected in the lives she touched. On the TV screen and beyond, Nichols’ legacy lives on in all of us, myself included, who are grateful for and benefit from her perseverance, talent and grace.”

Alex Kurtzman , screenwriter, producer, director, and current architect of the Star Trek universe, reflected , “Nichelle was a singular inspiration. She’s the one who really opened my eyes to what Star Trek is and can be. I can’t tell you how many people have told me she’s the reason they became… an astronaut, a scientist, a writer, a linguist, an engineer… it goes on and on. We stand in her light and honor her today and every day. Thank you, dear Nichelle, for leading the way.”

Kate Mulgrew , who portrayed Capt. Janeway on Voyager and now currently on Prodigy , expressed , “Nichelle Nichols was The First. She was a trailblazer who navigated a very challenging trail with grit, grace, and a gorgeous fire we are not likely to see again. May she Rest In Peace.”

Tributes poured in from every corner of the Star Trek universe including Jonathan Frakes , Gates McFadden , Levar Burton , Marina Sirtis , Jeri Ryan , Wilson Cruz , Aaron J. Waltke , Olatunde Osunsanmi , Doug Jones , Kim Cattrall , Karl Urban , JJ Abrams , John Cho , Anthony Rapp , Melissa Navia , Tawny Newsome , Denise Crosby , Seth MacFarlane , Anthony Montgomery , Davy Perez , Industrial Light & Magic (ILM) , Terry Matalas , Brent Spiner , Mike McMahan , Michelle Paradis , Akiva Goldsman , Bo Yeon Kim , Henry Alonso Myers , Rod Roddenberry , David Mack , Lea Thompson , Jayne Brook , and Michael Okuda .

NASA posted , “We celebrate the life of Nichelle Nichols, Star Trek actor, trailblazer, and role model, who symbolized to so many what was possible. She partnered with us to recruit some of the first women and minority astronauts, and inspired generations to reach for the stars.” The agency took to their site to further detail all the times their paths crossed with Nichols including her work in recruiting women and people of color into the Space Shuttle Program.

NASA administrator Bill Nelson remarked, “Nichelle’s advocacy transcended television and transformed NASA. After Apollo 11, Nichelle made it her mission to inspire women and people of color to join this agency, change the face of STEM and explore the cosmos. Nichelle’s mission is NASA’s mission. Today, as we work to send the first woman and first person of color to the Moon under Artemis , NASA is guided by the legacy of Nichelle Nichols.”

Those she inspired to travel into actual space took to Twitter to pay their tributes as well. Dr. Mae Jemison reflected , “Nichelle Nichols is forever for me the embodiment of grace, daring, intelligence, fun, inspiration, beauty, talent & the future. Today I am heart-sad at her passing. I consider our dearest friendship a great treasure & privilege in my life.”

Astronaut and STEAM explorer Leland Melvin expressed , “Nichelle thank you for being such a powerful, graceful, elegant, kind, and  talented force in the Universe. You inspired me and so many others to believe and rise. Condolences to the family. Much love and respect.”

President Joe Biden and the White House released a statement noting, “Our nation is forever indebted to inspiring artists like Nichelle Nichols, who show us a future where unity, dignity, and respect are cornerstones of every society.”

Vice President Kamala Harris shared , “Nichelle Nichols was a trailblazer. She inspired generations of young leaders to pursue a career in STEM and space. Her remarkable legacy is one that I and so many others are touched by.”

The Obama Foundation paid tribute , “Today we're remembering Nichelle Nichols, a beloved Star Trek legend, whose millions of fans included a young Barack Obama. Throughout her career she helped blaze new trails on Earth and in space, inspiring so many young people to reimagine their own future.”

In life, Nichols often recalled how she nearly quit Star Trek until a conversation with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. had her reconsider the decision. His daughter, activist Bernice King, and son, Martin Luther King III , memorialized the late actress as well.

Bernice King shared, “Representation matters. Excellence in representation matters even more. Thank you, Nichelle Nichols. Rest well, ancestor. ?”

While The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center stated , “We will miss you, Nichelle Nichols. You blazed a trail for every Black woman that always believed they could be a superhero.”

Activist and Democratic nominee for Governor of Georgia Stacey Abrams posted , “One of my most treasured photos - Godspeed to Nichelle Nichols, champion, warrior and tremendous actor. Her kindness and bravery lit the path for many. May she forever dwell among the stars.”

Other officials and government agencies shared their gratitude and reflections, including former Secretary of State and senator Hillary Clinton , The Smithsonian , National Air and Space Museum , Georgia state senator Rev. Raphael Warnock , and Florida Rep. Val Demings .

Actress Ashley Nicole Black noted , “Nichelle Nichols left behind such a beautiful legacy of what it really means to use the platform you have to make the world a better place. I think of her example often and I hope others will too. Rest well, Lt.”

Other actors and luminaries who were touched by Nichols’ passing include Kerry Washington , Ben Stiller , Josh Gad , Tom Morello , Matthew Modine , Bill Nye , Wanda Sykes , Viola Davis , Jason Alexander , Colman Domingo , and Joy-Ann Reid .

Marc Evan Jackson recalled a memory of Nichols and The Next Generation ’s Michael Dorn, “Years ago on the way home from some Con, I was on a flight with some unquestionable sci fi royalty. As we deplaned, Michael Dorn knelt to a seated Nichelle Nichols and said, ‘Be well, my Queen,’ and it was all I could do not to cry there and then. I think of it a lot.”

Another classic TV icon, Lynda Carter , shared , “Many actors become stars, but few stars can move a nation. Nichelle Nichols showed us the extraordinary power of Black women and paved the way for a better future for all women in media. Thank you, Nichelle. We will miss you.”

The LA Away Team gathered in Los Angeles at Nichols’ Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Please join StarTrek.com in extending our condolences to Nichols' family, friends, colleagues, and countless fans all over the world.

Get Updates By Email

clock This article was published more than  1 year ago

Nichelle Nichols, who played Uhura in Star Trek franchise, dies at 89

She helped break ground on tv by showing a black woman in a position of authority and who shared with co-star william shatner one of the first interracial kisses on american prime-time television.

Nichelle Nichols, an actress whose role as the communications chief Uhura in the original Star Trek franchise in the 1960s helped break ground on TV by showing a Black woman in a position of authority and who shared with co-star William Shatner one of the first interracial kisses on American prime-time television, died July 30 in Silver City, N.M. She was 89.

Her son, Kyle Johnson, announced the death on Facebook . Her former agent Zachery McGinnis also confirmed the death but did not have further details. Ms. Nichols had a stroke in 2015.

Ms. Nichols, a statuesque dancer and nightclub chanteuse, had a few acting credits when she was cast in “Star Trek.” She said she viewed the TV series as a “nice steppingstone” to Broadway stardom, hardly anticipating that a low-tech science-fiction show would become a cultural touchstone and bring her enduring recognition.

“Star Trek” was barrier-breaking in many ways. While other network programs of the era offered domestic witches and talking horses, “Star Trek” delivered allegorical tales about violence, prejudice and war — the roiling social issues of the era — in the guise of a 23rd-century intergalactic adventure. The show featured Black and Asian cast members in supporting but nonetheless visible, non-stereotypical roles.

Ms. Nichols worked with series creator Gene Roddenberry, her onetime lover, to imbue Uhura with authority — a striking departure for a Black TV actress when “Star Trek” debuted on NBC in 1966. Actress Whoopi Goldberg often said that when she saw “Star Trek” as an adolescent, she screamed to her family, “Come quick, come quick. There’s a Black lady on television and she ain’t no maid!”

On the bridge of the starship Enterprise, in a red minidress that permitted her to flaunt her dancer’s legs, Ms. Nichols stood out among the otherwise all-male officers. Uhura was presented matter-of-factly as fourth in command, exemplifying a hopeful future when Blacks would enjoy full equality.

The show received middling reviews and ratings and was canceled after three seasons, but it became a TV mainstay in syndication. An animated “Star Trek” aired in the early 1970s, with Ms. Nichols voicing Uhura. Communities of fans known as “Trekkies” or “Trekkers” soon burst forth at large-scale conventions where they dressed in character.

Ms. Nichols reprised Uhura, promoted from lieutenant to commander, in six feature films between 1979 and 1991 that helped make “Star Trek” a juggernaut. She was joined by much of the original cast, which included Shatner as the heroic captain, James T. Kirk, and Leonard Nimoy as the half-human, half-Vulcan science officer Spock; DeForest Kelley as the acerbic Dr. McCoy; George Takei as the Enterprise’s helmsman, Sulu; James Doohan as the chief engineer, Scotty; and Walter Koenig as the navigator, Chekov.

Ms. Nichols said Roddenberry allowed her to name Uhura, which she said was a feminized version of a Swahili word for “freedom.” She envisioned her character as a renowned linguist who, from a blinking console on the bridge, presides over a hidden communications staff in the spaceship’s bowels.

But by the end of the first season, she said, her role had been reduced to little more than a “glorified telephone operator in space,” remembered for her oft-quoted line to the captain, “Hailing frequencies open, sir.”

In her 1994 memoir, “ Beyond Uhura ,” she said that, during filming, her lines and those of other supporting actors were routinely cut. She blamed Shatner, whom she called an “insensitive, hurtful egotist” who used his star billing to hog the spotlight. She also said studio personnel tried to undermine her contract negotiating power by hiding her ample fan mail.

Years later, Ms. Nichols claimed in interviews that she had threatened to quit during the first season but reconsidered after meeting civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. at an NAACP fundraiser. She said he introduced himself as a fan and grew visibly horrified when she explained her desire to abandon her role, one of the few nonservile parts for Blacks on television.

“Because of Martin,” she told the “Entertainment Tonight” website, “I looked at work differently. There was something more than just a job.”

Her most prominent “Star Trek” moment came in a 1968 episode, “Plato’s Stepchildren,” about a group of “superior” beings who use mind control to make the visiting Enterprise crew submit to their will. They force Kirk and Uhura, platonic colleagues, to kiss passionately .

In later decades, Ms. Nichols and Shatner touted the smooch as a landmark event that was highly controversial within the network. It garnered almost no public attention at the time, perhaps because of the show’s tepid ratings but also because Hollywood films had already broken such taboos. A year before the “Star Trek” episode, NBC had aired Nancy Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. giving each other a peck on the lips during a TV special.

“Star Trek” went off the air in 1969, but Ms. Nichols’s continued association with Uhura at Trekkie conventions led to a NASA contract in 1977 to help recruit women and minorities to the nascent space shuttle astronaut corps.

NASA historians said its recruiting drive — the first since 1969 — had many prongs, and Ms. Nichols’s specific impact as a roving ambassador was modest. But the astronaut class of 1978 had six women, three Black men and one Asian American man among the 35 chosen.

Grace Dell Nichols, the daughter of a chemist and a homemaker, was born in Robbins, Ill., on Dec. 28, 1932, and grew up in nearby Chicago.

After studying classical ballet and Afro-Cuban dance, she made her professional debut at 14 at the College Inn, a high-society Chicago supper club. Her performance, in a tribute to the pioneering Black dancer Katherine Dunham, reputedly impressed bandleader Duke Ellington, who was in the audience. A few years later, newly re-christened Nichelle, she briefly appeared in his traveling show as a dancer and singer.

At 18, she married Foster Johnson, a tap dancer 15 years her senior. They had a son before divorcing. As a single mother, Ms. Nichols continued working the grind of the nightclub circuit.

In the late 1950s, she moved to Los Angeles and entered a cultural milieu that included Pearl Bailey, Sidney Poitier and Sammy Davis Jr., with whom she had what she described as a “short, stormy, exciting” affair. She landed an uncredited role in director Otto Preminger’s film version of “Porgy and Bess” (1959) and assisted her then-boyfriend, actor and director Frank Silvera, in his theatrical stagings.

In 1963, she won a guest role on “The Lieutenant,” an NBC military drama created by Roddenberry. She began an affair with Roddenberry, who was married, but broke things off when she discovered he was also seriously involved with actress Majel Barrett. “I could not be the other woman to the other woman,” she wrote in “Beyond Uhura.” (Roddenberry later married Barrett, who played a nurse on “Star Trek.”)

Ms. Nichols’s second marriage, to songwriter and arranger Duke Mondy, ended in divorce. Besides her son, Kyle Johnson, an actor who starred in writer-director Gordon Parks’s 1969 film “The Learning Tree,” a complete list of survivors was not immediately available.

After her role on “Star Trek,” Ms. Nichols played a hard-boiled madam opposite Isaac Hayes in the 1974 blaxploitation film “Truck Turner .” For many years, she performed a one-woman show honoring Black entertainers such as Lena Horne , Eartha Kitt and Leontyne Price. She also was credited as co-author of two science-fiction novels featuring a heroine named Saturna.

Ms. Nichols did not appear in director J.J. Abrams’s “Star Trek” film reboot that included actress Zoe Saldana as Uhura. But she gamely continued to promote the franchise and spoke with candor about her part in a role that eclipsed all her others.

“If you’ve got to be typecast,” Ms. Nichols told the UPI news service, “at least it’s someone with dignity.”

Nichelle Nichols Dead at 89: Star Trek Co-Star George Takei and Others Pay Tribute to Actress

Nichelle nichols, the trailblazing actress who originated the role of nyota uhura on star trek , was mourned online by co-stars and other actors in the sci-fi franchise..

The Star Trek  community is in mourning following the death of Nichelle Nichols .

The trailblazing actress, who played Lieutenant Nyota Uhura in the original 1960s series and movies, died at age 89 on July 30 . Her son  Kyle Johnson , her only child, announced her death online.

Following the sad news, Nichelle's  Star Trek  co-star  George Takei , who originated the role of Sulu, was almost at a loss of words. "I shall have more to say about the trailblazing, incomparable Nichelle Nichols, who shared the bridge with us as Lt. Uhura of the USS Enterprise, and who passed today at age 89," he wrote on  Twitter . "For today, my heart is heavy, my eyes shining like the stars you now rest among, my dearest friend."

George, 85, also posted a photo of himself and Nichelle giving the Vulcan salute at an event from recent years, writing, "We lived long and prospered together."

The two, as well as many of their  Star Trek  co-stars, remained friends after working together and have often been photographed at events. The actress served as best lady at the actor's wedding to Brad Altman  in 2008.

Trending Stories

Taylor swift shades kim kardashian on ttpd ’s “thank you aimee”, matty healy's aunt shares his reaction to taylor swift's ttpd, taylor swift's ttpd : joe alwyn, matty healy lyrics decoded.

Walter Koenig , 85, who played Pavel Chekov on the original  Star Trek , served as best man. In 2012, Nichelle, George and Leonard Nimoy  supported their friend at his star ceremony on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, decades after receiving their own stars.

Leonard, who played half-Vulcan first officer Spock, died at age 83 in 2015 . Adam Nimoy , his son (and husband of  Star Trek: Deep Space Nine actress Terry Farrell ), posted on Twitter a photo of his dad with the late actress.

My favorite photo of Dad and Nichelle Nichols on set. The importance of Nichelle's legacy cannot be over-emphasized. She was much loved and will be missed. pic.twitter.com/1zlTd4F9BD — Adam Nimoy (@adam_nimoy) July 31, 2022

"My favorite photo of Dad and Nichelle Nichols on set," he wrote . "The importance of Nichelle's legacy cannot be over-emphasized. She was much loved and will be missed."

Koenig and William Shatner , who played Captain James T. Kirk, are the only surviving members of the original  Star Trek . Neither has commented on Nichelle's death.

Nichelle was one of the first Black actors to play a major role on television. She and William also broke a cultural barrier when they engaged in American TV's first interracial kiss, on a 1968 episode of  Star Trek .

In addition to George,  Celia Rose Gooding , who plays Uhura on the new Paramount+ series Star Trek: Strange New Worlds , also paid tribute to Nichelle following news of her death.

"She made room for so many of us," she tweeted . "She was the reminder that not only can we reach the stars, but our influence is essential to their survival. Forget shaking the table, she built it! #RIPNichelleNichols"

See more tributes to Nichelle below:

Melissa C. Navia , who plays Erica Ortegas on Star Trek: Strange New Worlds : "Nichelle Nichols...Her light will keep shining. Brighter & stronger than ever. All the rest to her now and peace to her family. Cannot wait for the celebration of her life that is to come and all the stories that those who knew her best will share."

Wilson Cruz , who plays Hugh Culber on Star Trek: Discovery : "Before we understood how much #RepresentationMatters #NichelleNichols modeled it for us. With her very presence & her grace she shone a light on who we as people of color are & inspired us to reach for our potential. Rest well glittering diamond in the sky."

Tawny Newsome , who voices Beckett Mariner on Star Trek: Lower Decks : "Thank you for giving so many of us a place in the universe. #NichelleNichols."

Kate Mulgrew , who played Captain Kathryn Janeway,  Star Trek 's first female captain, on  Star Trek: Voyager : "Nichelle Nichols was The First. She was a trailblazer who navigated a very challenging trail with grit, grace, and a gorgeous fire we are not likely to see again. May she Rest In Peace. #NichelleNichols"

Lynda Carter , star of the 1970s TV show  Wonder Woman : "Many actors become stars, but few stars can move a nation. Nichelle Nichols showed us the extraordinary power of Black women and paved the way for a better future for all women in media. Thank you, Nichelle. We will miss you."

Nana Visitor , who played Kira Nerys on  Star Trek: Deep Space Nine : "Rest In Peace Nichelle."

Marina Sirtis , who played Counselor Deanna Troi on Star Trek: The Next Generation and its movies: "RIP @NichelleIsUhura. You led the way and opened the door for the rest of us who followed in your wake. We will be forever grateful. My heart is broken."

The official Star Trek  Twitter: "We're deeply saddened to report the passing of Nichelle Nichols - a trailblazer, an inspiration, and so much more. She will be deeply missed."

Stacey Abrams , voting rights activist and Georgia gubernatorial candidate, shared a photo of herself with Nichelle, writing, "Godspeed to Nichelle Nichols, champion, warrior and tremendous actor. Her kindness and bravery lit the path for many. May she forever dwell among the stars. #RIPNichelle #Uhura"

One of my most treasured photos - Godspeed to Nichelle Nichols, champion, warrior and tremendous actor. Her kindness and bravery lit the path for many. May she forever dwell among the stars. #RIPNichelle #Uhura pic.twitter.com/nFXHif8HEC — Stacey Abrams (@staceyabrams) July 31, 2022

NASA , who Nichelle worked with to recruit women and minorities for the space shuttle program: "We celebrate the life of Nichelle Nichols, Star Trek actor, trailblazer, and role model, who symbolized to so many what was possible. She partnered with us to recruit some of the first women and minority astronauts, and inspired generations to reach for the stars."

Taylor Swift’s PDA Video With Travis Kelce Shows Their True Alchemy

Two and a half men 's angus t. jones seen during rare outing.

Screen Rant

10 background characters star trek fans love.

Star Trek fans have a soft spot for some of the unsung featured background players and lesser-known characters in Star Trek shows.

• Background characters in Star Trek add depth to the universe, making it feel lived-in and real.
• Beloved regular faces like Lt. M'Ress, Nurse Ogawa, and Mr. Mot enhance Star Trek shows.
• From Lt. Linus to Dr. Migleemo, each background character brings their own unique charm to the series.

There's something about beloved Star Trek background characters that really helps its universe feel lived-in and real. While the primary action is taking place, it's up to the background actors to make the sets look like genuine places where people are going about their business. These are the folks at the bridge stations who aren't in the opening credits. They're the assistants to the main characters. They're the beloved regular faces spotted among the crowds in establishing shots, and the names floating around duty rosters and civilian gossip that remind viewers that there's more to Star Trek than the captains and chief engineers.

There are so many background characters from all of the Star Trek shows who are beloved by fans, of course. Star Trek: Deep Space Nine 's Promenade is full of colorful background characters without names or personal histories, like the singing Klingon chef (Ron Taylor). Star Trek: Voyager features recurring background characters, since being stuck in the Delta Quadrant means no new Starfleet officers can join the crew. Star Trek: The Next Generation features background characters who sometimes level up to become proper guest stars , and in one famous case, a series regular: the "most important person in Starfleet" and original lower-decker, Chief Miles O'Brien (Colm Meaney). Here are 10 background characters Star Trek fans love.

20 Best New Star Trek Characters Of The Last 20 Years

10 lt. m'ress (majel barrett), star trek: the animated series.

Lt. M'Ress is a Caitian officer with a seat on the USS Enterprise bridge, created for Star Trek: The Animated Series when Star Trek 's jump to animation meant that the aliens in Star Trek were no longer restrained by what the makeup department could physically create. As the first Caitian in Star Trek , M'Ress sets the standard for the feline alien species , later echoed by Star Trek 's other animated Caitian, Dr. T'Ana (Gillian Vigman) in Star Trek: Lower Decks .

Like many background characters, M'Ress' cool character design is a top reason for her appeal, but M'Ress earns her spot on the bridge of the Starship Enterprise by being a capable officer. M'Ress' duties as relief communications officer include communication within the Enterprise as well as to outside vehicles, along with scientific duties as situations arise, similar to the duties of primary communications officer Lt. Nyota Uhura (Nichelle Nichols).

Lt. M'Ress appeared in 2 episodes of the "anything but canon" animated web series Star Trek: very Short Treks, voiced by Cristina Milizia.

9 Lt. T'Veen (Stephanie Czajkowski)

Star trek: picard.

The starship action of Star Trek: Picard season 3 takes place primarily aboard the USS Titan-A, and as such, introduces a brand-new bridge crew of younger Starfleet officers, one of which is the Vulcan Lt. T'Veen. T'Veen stands out as both a woman and a Vulcan for her striking bald appearance , marking her look as both novel and unique. Actor Stephanie Czajkowski suggests that T'Veen may have some Deltan ancestry, but in reality, T'Veen's lack of locks comes from Czajkowski's own battles with cancer.

When Vadic (Amanda Plummer) commandeers the Titan in Star Trek: Picard season 3, episode 8, "Surrender" , T'Veen is one of the Titan bridge officers used as leverage against Vadic's request for Jack Crusher (Ed Speleers). At this point in Picard , the Titan's crew are painted as candidates for a potential spinoff show, but Lt. T'Veen's shocking death at Vadic's hand sends the message that no one is safe.

8 Sonya Gomez (Lycia Naff)

Star trek: the next generation, star trek: lower decks.

The original claim to fame for Ensign Sonya Gomez (Lycia Naff) is being the eager young engineer who unfortunately spills hot chocolate on Captain Jean-Luc Picard (Patrick Stewart) in Star Trek: The Next Generation , season 2, episode 16, "Q Who". Serving on the USS Enterprise-D with Lt. Geordi La Forge (LeVar Burton) is Gomez's dream job, and the chocolate-covered Captain isn't going to earn her any high marks. La Forge recognizes Gomez's talent as an antimatter specialist, and helps Sonya focus, despite the gaffe.

Lycia Naff makes a triumphant return to Star Trek as Captain Sonya Gomez in Star Trek: Lower Decks season 2, episode 10, "First First Contact", commanding the USS Archimedes with the same compassionate focus on problem-solving that La Forge had as Gomez's mentor. Captain Gomez's story is proof that Star Trek characters do learn from their earliest mistakes , and can come out on top in the end.

7 Mr. Mot (Ken Thorley)

Star trek: the next generation.

In an interesting twist, Mr. Mot is a barber working on the USS Enterprise-D, and happens to be a Bolian, a species that has no hair of their own. Nonetheless, Commander William Riker (Jonathan Frakes) says that the civilian Mot is the best barber in Starfleet . There's more to being a barber than just cutting hair, after all, and Mot's listening ears are available to anyone who comes to sit in his barbershop chair, as long as they don't mind receiving a little free advice on the side.

The Bolian barber became an entrepreneur.

After providing excellent service to the crew on Star Trek: The Next Generation, Mot grew even more successful. The Bolian barber became an entrepreneur, which is evident by the presence of Mr. Mot's Hair Emporium as one of the many businesses in Stardust City, on the planet Freecloud, as seen in Star Trek: Picard season 1, episode 5, "Stardust City Rag".

Bolians are named for Star Trek director Cliff Bole, who directed a total of 42 episodes between his work on Star Trek: The Next Generation , Star Trek: Deep Space Nine , and Star Trek: Voyager .

10 Star Trek Characters Fans See Themselves In

6 groundskeeper boothby (ray walston), star trek: the next generation, star trek: voyager.

Mr. Boothby is a positive influence on generations of Starfleet officers at Starfleet Academy, but one would be wrong to assume that Boothby is an accomplished instructor working to shape young minds, because Boothby works at Starfleet Academy as the head groundskeeper. Groundskeeper Boothby's no-nonsense approach to the natural development of the Academy's flora also applies to how Boothby interacts with Starfleet cadets .

Boothby's influence on the USS Voyager crew was evident in Star Trek: Voyager season 5, episode 4, "In the Flesh", when a Species 8472 leader took on the guise of Boothby in a Starfleet Academy simulation, instead of a high-ranking Admiral.

Sometimes, Boothby's advice is harsh, as was the case with Jean-Luc Picard as a Starfleet Academy cadet. But in the end, Boothby always has an uncanny sensibility for knowing exactly how to cultivate the best forms of both botanical specimens and future Starfleet officers.

5 Lt. Kayshon (Carl Tart)

Star trek: lower decks.

Lt. Kayshon has the honor of being the first Tamarian in Starfleet , debuting in Star Trek: Lower Decks season 2, episode 2, "Kayshon, His Eyes Open", as the USS Cerritos' new security officer. The Tamarians, first seen in Star Trek: The Next Generation season 5, episode 2, "Darmok", have a puzzling metaphorical language reliant on background knowledge of Tamarian culture. The Tamarian phrases from "Darmok" have been adopted by Star Trek fans as a fun way to signal our fandom to each other, so it makes sense that a Tamarian officer should show up on Star Trek: Lower Decks , itself a celebration of Star Trek 's own weird and wonderful moments.

Kayshon spends more time in the background after his first episode, still part of the USS Cerritos' security team. The years between "Picard and Dathon at El-Adred" and Kayshon's assignment to the USS Cerritos in Star Trek: Lower Decks mean the communication gap between Kayshon and the rest of the USS Cerritos' crew is much smaller than it might have been in the past. Kayshon communicates in Federation Standard, but still slips into Tamarian metaphor from time to time, which just adds new phrases to the Tamarian lexicon.

4 Dr. Migleemo (Paul F. Tompkins)

In Dr. Migleemo, Star Trek: Lower Decks continues the tradition that was established with Counselor Deanna Troi (Marina Sirtis) on Star Trek: The Next Generation by having a counselor aboard the USS Cerritos . Strictly speaking, Migleemo is not the galaxy's best counselor , with a whole plateful of food metaphors that don't always land butter-side-up, but Migleemo's heart is always in the right place.

As a bird-like alien of an unspecified species, Dr. Migleemo's character design pays homage to Star Trek: The Animated Series , since a bird man in a tweed suit may not translate that well to live action, but works perfectly for animation.

Even though Migleemo is bad at his job, it's in a way that's not actively harmful, but makes you want to root for him, just like any other lower decker on the Cerritos. Sometimes Migleemo gets it right , after all, like counseling Ensign D'Vana Tendi (Noël Wells) in the senior science officer training program in Star Trek: Lower Decks season 3, episode 3, "Mining the Mind's Mines".

3 Nurse Alyssa Ogawa (Patti Yasutake)

Dr. Beverly Crusher (Gates McFadden) usually has assistants in the background of the USS Enterprise-D's sick bay, and one of these, Nurse Alyssa Ogawa, is a regular background character starting in Star Trek: The Next Generation season 4. Ogawa grows as a character over the course of TNG 's final four seasons , receiving a full name as of Star Trek: The Next Generation season 5, episode 18, "Cause and Effect", and developing as a character through Ogawa's casual conversations with Dr. Crusher about Alyssa's dating history.

Nurse Ogawa gets more to do when Ogawa is one of the four USS Enterprise-D junior officers at the heart of Star Trek: The Next Generation season 7, episode 15, "Lower Decks" , focusing on the friendship between often-overlooked characters. Ogawa's story focuses on Alyssa's relationship with Lieutenant Andrew Powell, and culminates in their off-screen engagement.

Nurse Alyssa Ogawa also appears in two Star Trek movies: Star Trek: Generations and Star Trek: First Contact .

2 Lt. Linus (David Benjamin Tomlinson)

Star trek: discovery.

With Lt. Linus, Star Trek: Discovery shows in a casual, but meaningful way what it looks like to actively include someone with unique needs . Arriving in Star Trek: Discovery season 2, Lt. Linus is a Saurian science officer who never fails to provide a little levity just by being himself. By all accounts, Linus is well-liked among the USS Discovery's crew , with plenty of crew members referring to Linus and Saurian customs relatively favorably.

Lt. Linus is accepted as someone whose needs are a little different to most human officers'.

Starfleet easily makes accommodations available for Linus' differences in biology , granting personal time set aside for annual shedding, and providing heat lamps in Linus' quarters as needed. After Star Trek: Discovery 's time jump , Linus takes a little more time to understand the new 32nd-century technology, but he's never admonished for catching up to the learning curve. Instead, Lt. Linus is accepted as someone whose needs are a little different to most human officers'.

Every DS9 Alien In Star Trek: Discovery

1 morn (mark allen shepherd), star trek: deep space nine.

Morn is a fixture in Quark's Bar from the start of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine , the perennial barfly occupying the same seat at the end of the table. According to the other patrons at Quark's, Morn rarely shuts up, but the joke is, of course, that Morn is always cut off before delivering any speaking lines. Instead, the picture of who Morn really is slowly comes together through other people's comments and conversation about Morn, with the speculation about Morn's true identity finally coming to a head in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine season 6, episode 12, "Who Mourns for Morn". Morn's apparent death is a blow to the community and all who knew him, but also reveals surprising facts about DS9 's Morn , like Morn's secret riches and tactical mind, confirming that there was more to the enigmatic Lurian than Morn's signature bar stool.

True to form, Morn is seated at Quark's Bar when the USS Cerritos visits Deep Space Nine in Star Trek: Lower Decks season 3, episode 6, "Hear All, Trust Nothing".

Sometimes the Star Trek characters who aren't major players become some of the most beloved characters. When background characters on Star Trek attract the eyes of viewers with interesting character designs or memorable moments, they may wind up in expanded roles as their Star Trek shows go on. These featured background characters will get lines and names, and might even have a major part in an episode or two, but most live out their lives off-screen. From the bridge crew to the lower decks, from Starfleet officers to civilians, it's the unsung heroes in the background who keep Star Trek moving while the main action is taking place.

Star Trek: The Animated Series, Star Trek: The Next Generation, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Star Trek: Voyager, Star Trek: Discovery, Star Trek: Picard, and Star Trek: Lower Decks are all streaming on Paramount+.

• Election 2024
• Entertainment
• Newsletters
• Photography
• Personal Finance
• AP Investigations
• AP Buyline Personal Finance
• AP Buyline Shopping
• Press Releases
• Israel-Hamas War
• Russia-Ukraine War
• Global elections
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East
• Election Results
• Delegate Tracker
• AP & Elections
• Auto Racing
• 2024 Paris Olympic Games
• Movie reviews
• Book reviews
• Personal finance
• Financial Markets
• Business Highlights
• Financial wellness
• Artificial Intelligence
• Social Media

Nichelle Nichols, Lt. Uhura on ‘Star Trek,’ has died at 89

FILE - Actor Nichelle Nichols speaks during the Creation Entertainment’s Official Star Trek Convention at The Westin O’Hare in Rosemont, Ill., Sunday, June 8, 2014. Nichols, who gained fame as Lt. Ntoya Uhura on the original “Star Trek” television series, died Saturday, July 30, 2022, her family said. She was 89. (Photo by Barry Brecheisen/Invision/AP, File)

FILE - Actor Nichelle Nichols, who played Lt. Ntoya Uhura on ''Star Trek,’' waves as she arrives at the “Star Trek: 30 Years and Beyond” tribute at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles, Sunday, Oct. 6, 1996. Nichols died Saturday, July 30, 2022, her family said. She was 89. (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes, File)

FILE - Members of the “Star Trek” crew, from left, James Doohan, DeForest Kelley, Walter Koenig, William Shatner, George Takei, Leonard Nimoy and Nichelle Nichols, toast the newest “Star Trek” film during a news conference at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles, Dec. 28, 1988. Nichols, who gained fame as Lt. Ntoya Uhura on the original “Star Trek” television series, died Saturday, July 30, 2022, at age 89. (AP Photo/Bob Galbraith, File)

FILE - Actor Nichelle Nichols expresses her support to striking members of the Writers Guild of America (WGA) outside the gates of Paramount Pictures studios in Los Angeles, Monday, Dec. 10, 2007. Nichols, who gained fame as Lt. Ntoya Uhura on the original “Star Trek” television series, died Saturday, July 30, 2022, at age 89. (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes, File)

• Copy Link copied

Nichelle Nichols, who broke barriers for Black women in Hollywood as communications officer Lt. Uhura on the original “Star Trek” television series, has died at the age of 89.

Her son Kyle Johnson said Nichols died Saturday in Silver City, New Mexico.

“Last night, my mother, Nichelle Nichols, succumbed to natural causes and passed away. Her light however, like the ancient galaxies now being seen for the first time, will remain for us and future generations to enjoy, learn from, and draw inspiration,” Johnson wrote on her official Facebook page Sunday. “Hers was a life well lived and as such a model for us all.”

Her role in the 1966-69 series earned Nichols a lifelong position of honor with the series’ rabid fans, known as Trekkers and Trekkies. It also earned her accolades for breaking stereotypes that had limited Black women to acting roles as servants and included an interracial onscreen kiss with co-star William Shatner that was unheard of at the time.

Shatner tweeted Sunday: “I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Nichelle. She was a beautiful woman & played an admirable character that did so much for redefining social issues both here in the US & throughout the world.”

George Takei, who shared the bridge of the USS Enterprise with her as Sulu in the original “Star Trek” series, called her trailblazing and incomparable. “For today, my heart is heavy, my eyes shining like the stars you now rest among, my dearest friend,” he tweeted.

Nichols’ impact was felt far beyond her immediate co-stars, and many others in the “Star Trek” world also tweeted their condolences.

Celia Rose Gooding, who currently plays Uhura in “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds,” tweeted that Nichols “made room for so many of us. She was the reminder that not only can we reach the stars, but our influence is essential to their survival. Forget shaking the table, she built it.”

“Star Trek: Voyager” alum Kate Mulgrew tweeted, “Nichelle Nichols was The First. She was a trailblazer who navigated a very challenging trail with grit, grace, and a gorgeous fire we are not likely to see again.”

Like other original cast members, Nichols also appeared in six big-screen spinoffs starting in 1979 with “Star Trek: The Motion Picture” and frequented “Star Trek” fan conventions. She also served for many years as a NASA recruiter, helping bring minorities and women into the astronaut corps.

More recently, she had a recurring role on television’s “Heroes,” playing the great-aunt of a young boy with mystical powers.

The original “Star Trek” premiered on NBC on Sept. 8, 1966. Its multicultural, multiracial cast was creator Gene Roddenberry’s message to viewers that in the far-off future — the 23rd century — human diversity would be fully accepted.

“I think many people took it into their hearts ... that what was being said on TV at that time was a reason to celebrate,” Nichols said in 1992 when a “Star Trek” exhibit was on view at the Smithsonian Institution.

She often recalled how Martin Luther King Jr. was a fan of the show and praised her role. She met him at a civil rights gathering in 1967, at a time when she had decided not to return for the show’s second season.

“When I told him I was going to miss my co-stars and I was leaving the show, he became very serious and said, ‘You cannot do that,’” she told The Tulsa (Okla.) World in a 2008 interview.

“‘You’ve changed the face of television forever, and therefore, you’ve changed the minds of people,’” she said the civil rights leader told her.

“That foresight Dr. King had was a lightning bolt in my life,” Nichols said.

During the show’s third season, Nichols’ character and Shatner’s Capt. James Kirk shared what was described as the first interracial kiss to be broadcast on a U.S. television series. In the episode, “Plato’s Stepchildren,” their characters, who always maintained a platonic relationship, were forced into the kiss by aliens who were controlling their actions.

AP entertainment correspondent Oscar Wells Gabriel reports on Obit Nichelle Nichols

The kiss “suggested that there was a future where these issues were not such a big deal,” Eric Deggans, a television critic for National Public Radio, told The Associated Press in 2018. “The characters themselves were not freaking out because a Black woman was kissing a white man ... In this utopian-like future, we solved this issue. We’re beyond it. That was a wonderful message to send.”

Worried about reaction from Southern television stations, showrunners wanted to film a second take of the scene where the kiss happened off-screen. But Nichols said in her book, “Beyond Uhura: Star Trek and Other Memories,” that she and Shatner deliberately flubbed lines to force the original take to be used.

Despite concerns, the episode aired without blowback. In fact, it got the most “fan mail that Paramount had ever gotten on ‘Star Trek’ for one episode,” Nichols said in a 2010 interview with the Archive of American Television.

Born Grace Dell Nichols in Robbins, Illinois, Nichols hated being called “Gracie,” which everyone insisted on, she said in the 2010 interview. When she was a teen her mother told her she had wanted to name her Michelle, but thought she ought to have alliterative initials like Marilyn Monroe, whom Nichols loved. Hence, “Nichelle.”

Nichols first worked professionally as a singer and dancer in Chicago at age 14, moving on to New York nightclubs and working for a time with the Duke Ellington and Lionel Hampton bands before coming to Hollywood for her film debut in 1959’s “Porgy and Bess,” the first of several small film and TV roles that led up to her “Star Trek” stardom.

Nichols was known as being unafraid to stand up to Shatner on the set when others complained that he was stealing scenes and camera time. They later learned she had a strong supporter in the show’s creator.

In her 1994 book, “Beyond Uhura,” she said she met Roddenberry when she guest starred on his show “The Lieutenant,” and the two had an affair a couple of years before “Star Trek” began. The two remained lifelong close friends.

Another fan of Nichols and the show was future astronaut Mae Jemison, who became the first black woman in space when she flew aboard the shuttle Endeavour in 1992.

In an AP interview before her flight, Jemison said she watched Nichols on “Star Trek” all the time, adding she loved the show. Jemison eventually got to meet Nichols.

Nichols was a regular at “Star Trek” conventions and events into her 80s, but her schedule became limited starting in 2018 when her son announced that she was suffering from advanced dementia.

Nichols was placed under a court conservatorship in the control of her son Johnson, who said her mental decline made her unable to manage her affairs or make public appearances.

Some, including Nichols’ managers and her friend, film producer and actor Angelique Fawcett, objected to the conservatorship and sought more access to Nichols and to records of Johnson’s financial and other moves on her behalf. Her name was at times invoked at courthouse rallies that sought the freeing of Britney Spears from her own conservatorship.

But the court consistently sided with Johnson, and over the objections of Fawcett allowed him to move Nichols to New Mexico, where she lived with him in her final years.

Associated Press Entertainment Writer Andrew Dalton contributed from Los Angeles. Former AP Writer Polly Anderson contributed biographical material to this report.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Entertainment

Who Is George Takei's Husband? All About Brad Takei

George Takei and his husband, Brad Takei, have been married since 2008

Sarah Title is a contributing writer at PEOPLE. She has been working at PEOPLE since 2022. Her work has previously appeared in Brides, The Knot, Betches, Nicki Swift and Style Me Pretty.

Anna Webber/Getty

George Takei and his husband, Brad Takei, first met each other in the 1980s.

The actor was not publicly out at that time, but he did join an LGBTQ+ running club called the L.A. Frontrunners, where his now-husband Brad was also a member. “He was the best runner in the club," George told Oprah Winfrey on an Oprah: Where Are They Now? episode. "And also great-looking. So I went up to him and I asked him to train me for my first marathon. Before long, we became partners."

It wasn’t until 2005 that George, who played Mr. Sulu on Star Trek , publicly came out to Frontiers magazine. “Because of the changes that are happening, I see the potential for significant change —[the potential] that I might be able to contribute to the gay community as I have to the Japanese-American community and to the civil rights movement,” George said of his decision. “Because of the changing public and political climate, I think we need to get the numbers, and I can play a part in trying to bring some rationality to our society.”

The pair tied the knot in 2008 in a Buddhist ceremony in downtown Los Angeles. Nearly 200 guests watched George and Brad exchange vows in a circle of yellow rose petals. The reception was held at the Japanese American National Museum. George's former Star Trek costars Nichelle Nichols and Walter Koenig were their maid of honor and best man.

So who is George Takei's husband? Here’s everything to know about Brad Takei and his relationship with the actor.

Brad was a financial journalist when he met George

Amanda Edwards/Getty

Brad was a financial journalist when he met George in the 1980s but became George’s business partner in the early 1990s.

“Eventually, I helped George with some of his public relations, press releases and various projects,” Brad explained on the podcast Oh Myyy Pod! . "He needed somebody to help make sure that things got accomplished so that he could be a visionary and artist and I could do the detail work — and it sort of gradually evolved that I became his business manager.” 

Brad joined George on an episode of The Newlywed Game

Kevin Mazur/Getty 

In 2009, Brad and George became the first openly gay couple to compete on The Newlywed Game since its inception in 1967. "I grew up watching the show in the 1970s where [host] Bob [Eubanks] would talk about 'making whoopee' and now Carnie Wilson just asks how often you have sex," Brad said. "It shows how much our culture has changed."

George also recognized the magnitude of the moment. "We're boldly going where no other same-sex couple has gone," the actor added. "We want to be seen [on the show] in context throughout society as no different from other couples who preceded us, in the context of normalcy and commitment to each other."

Brad changed his last name from Altman to Takei

STAN HONDA/AFP/Getty

After being together for 26 years, Brad changed his last name from Altman to Takei in 2013, despite George’s resistance . “I argued with him on that,” George told Access Hollywood Live .

“He wanted to become a Takei.” George even suggested hyphenating their names, to which Brad replied, “I feel Takei.”

Brad joined George on-screen for their documentary

David Livingston/Getty

After years behind the camera as George’s business manager, the couple filmed a documentary together about their advocacy work, called To Be Takei .

“The mission statement was to allow access into our private lives to show fair-minded Americans that a same-sex couple, this is like everyone else in our culture dominated by opposite-sex couple,” Brad told The Wrap . “Maybe if our doc showed we’re just like everyone else, just the same gender, maybe fair-minded people will think twice about wanting to discriminate against the LGBT community.”

He believes in the longevity of George’s career

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty

Brad has always been extremely supportive of George’s career.

“I always say George is the next Betty White . The middle years of her career, she was a very prominent American actor winning Emmys left and right and very well known to the American public, but she didn’t become 'Betty White' until her very mature years,” Brad told The Wrap. “That path is what’s happening to George. He’s not that guy from Star Trek — which is not a bad thing to be, he’s proud to be part of it — he’s simply George Takei.”

He won the International Vanguard Award together with George in 2014

Vincent Sandoval/Getty

The couple's LGBTQ+ work earned them the honor. In his acceptance speech, George took a moment to thank his husband for being his partner in all aspects of life. “He’s my husband, we’re married, but we’re also professional partners in life. We build our lives and our career together, and I feel so blessed in having him and I feel very blessed to be gay.”

Star Trek's Lost USS Enterprise Model Returned To Roddenberry

• The original USS Enterprise model from Star Trek has been returned to Gene Roddenberry's son after being missing since the 1970s.
• The 3-foot version of the Enterprise featured in the 1960s Star Trek is now authenticated and set to be restored for public exhibition.
• Rod Roddenberry plans to find a museum to showcase the iconic Enterprise model.

The first model of the USS Enterprise used in Star Trek: The Original Series has been returned to Gene Roddenberry's son, Eugene "Rod" Roddenberry. Missing since the 1970s when Gene Roddenberry loaned it to the filmmakers of 1979's Star Trek: The Motion Picture , the 3-foot model of the Starship Enterprise was used in Star Trek' s original pilot episode, "The Cage," as well as the opening credits of Star Trek: The Original Series . The model popped up on eBay last fall , and the sellers took it down and then contacted Dallas-based Heritage Auctions to authenticate it.

Yahoo! News reports that last weekend, the lost original model of Star Trek' s USS Enterprise was returned to Rod Roddenberry. The now-found and authenticated Enterprise model was the prototype for the 11-foot version featured in the episodes of the 1960s Star Trek . The larger model is on display at the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum. Rod Roddenberry commented on the Enterprise model's return:

“This is not going home to adorn my shelves. This is going to get restored and we’re working on ways to get it out so the public can see it and my hope is that it will land in a museum somewhere.”

Rod Roddenberry also officially commented on the return of the lost USS Enterprise model on his Instagram (@eugeneroddenberryofficial):

Star Trek: Every Version Of The Starship Enterprise

How star trek's lost uss enterprise model was returned to roddenberry, a vital piece of star trek history is finally home.

It was a long road for the original USS Enterprise model to return home to Rod Roddenberry. The 3-foot Enterprise model graced the desk of Gene Roddenberry, but after it was loaned out to Star Trek: The Original Series , it vanished, and, “No one knew what happened to it," according to Rod Roddenberry. Heritage's Auction's executive vice president, Joe Maddalena, said the auction house was contacted by people who said they'd discovered the lost Enterprise model in a storage unit. It was brought to Heritage's Beverly Hills office where they instantly knew "it was the real thing."

Amusingly, Rod Roddenberry is also "vindicated" because of a long-running rumor that he destroyed the original Enterprise model as a boy by throwing it in a swimming pool.

Joe Maddalena said the original USS Enterprise model could easily sell for $1-million at auction, but as a "cultural icon," it is essentially "priceless." Rod Roddenberry admits he has vague memories of the 3-foot Enterprise model, and he didn't think much about it until he was contacted when the model briefly appeared on eBay. Roddenberry said he appreciates that everyone involved agreed it was the right thing to do to return the model. Without going into details about the agreement reached, Roddenberry added, “I felt it important to reward that and show appreciation for that.” Roughly 50 years after it disappeared, a crucial piece of Star Trek history has finally come home.

Source: Yahoo! News

Star Trek: The Original Series is streaming on Paramount+

Cast Nichelle Nichols, Walter Koenig, William Shatner, George Takei, Leonard Nimoy, Deforest Kelley, James Doohan

Network NBC

Streaming Service(s) Paramount+

Franchise(s) Star Trek

Writers Gene Roddenberry

Showrunner Gene Roddenberry

Where To Watch Paramount+

‘Star Trek’: Long-Lost Original USS Enterprise Model Finally Makes the Voyage Home

The model was used for the pilot and credits of the original 'Star Trek' series.

The Big Picture

• The original USS Enterprise model has been found in a storage locker after going missing for decades.
• The model was used for the original unaired pilot and opening credits of Star Trek: The Original Series .
• Rod Roddenberry plans to restore and display the iconic starship model in a museum for public viewing.

The original model of the USS Enterprise from Star Trek: The Original Series has been located, after spending several decades missing — not in some distant region of space, but in a storage locker. The model has been returned to Eugene "Rod" Roddenberry , the son of original Trek creator Gene Roddenberry . ABC News reports that the three-foot-long model was given to Gene Roddenberry after the original Trek series ended in 1969, and graced his desk for several years before he loaned it to the makers of 1979's Star Trek: The Motion Picture . The model disappeared shortly afterward and remained missing until it turned up on eBay last year. It had been discovered in a storage locker by parties unknown, who contacted action site Heritage Auctions. Although the model would fetch an enormous price at auction as a one-of-a-kind pop-cultural artifact, an arrangement was made between the finders and Roddenberry, whose father died at 70 in 1991.

The model in question was the first finished model of the iconic starship; it was used for the series' original unaired pilot episode, "The Cage," which was later incorporated into a two-part episode , "The Menagerie," before it was released in full in the 1980s. It was also used for the shots of the Enterprise seen in the show's opening credits. A larger model was later created for the rest of the series; that model is currently on display at the Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum . Roddenberry intends for the original model to find a permanent home, as well:

"This is not going home to adorn my shelves. This is going to get restored and we’re working on ways to get it out so the public can see it and my hope is that it will land in a museum somewhere."

What Is the USS Enterprise?

The flagship of the United Federation of Planets' Starfleet, the USS Enterprise is a Constitution-class starship from the 23rd century. It was originally captained by Robert April, who appeared on Star Trek: The Animated Series before appearing in live-action for the first time in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds . April later passed on command to Christopher Pike , whose adventures are currently being chronicled in the prequel series Strange New Worlds . After Pike was promoted to fleet command, James Kirk was given command of the ship, taking it on a five-year mission that kicked off one of science fiction's most enduring franchises.

In Star Trek III: The Search for Spock , then-Admiral Kirk stole the Enterprise to journey to the unstable Genesis Planet and reunite his friend Spock's mind with his body; during that adventure, Kirk had the ship self-destruct to prevent it from being seized by the Klingons. It was later replaced by a near-identical ship, the Enterprise-A ; many subsequent Federation ships have borne the name, up to the rechristened Enterprise-J in the series finale of Star Trek: Picard .

The son of Roddenberry and actor Majel Barrett , Rod Roddenberry is the chief executive officer of Roddenberry Entertainment. He currently executive produces the latest generation of Star Trek series, including Discovery , Strange New Worlds , Picard , Lower Decks , and Prodigy .

The original model of the Enterprise is now back in the Roddenberry family. Viewers can see it in action in Star Trek: The Original Series , which can be streamed on Paramount+.

Star Trek: The Original Series

In the 23rd Century, Captain James T. Kirk and the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise explore the galaxy and defend the United Federation of Planets.

Watch on Paramount+

Why Leonard Nimoy Directed Star Trek III: The Search for Spock

Star Trek III: The Search for Spock was the first film directed by Leonard Nimoy, and how he convinced the studio to let him went beyond mere logic.

Quick Links

Why star trek needed spock to survive beyond two movies, how leonard nimoy got to direct star trek iii: the search for spock, leonard nimoy faced challenges directing the search for spock, how the star trek cast reacted to leonard nimoy directing star trek iii.

On the 40th anniversary of Star Trek III: The Search for Spock , the film directed by Leonard Nimoy enjoys a much better reputation than it originally did. For a long time when discussing the films starring the cast of Star Trek: The Original Series , fans claimed "the even-numbered movies are good, the odd-numbered ones are bad." Yet, how the first film Leonard Nimoy directed turned out is why Star Trek continues to be a relevant and important storytelling universe today. One reason Leonard Nimoy directed Star Trek III: The Search for Spock was, likely, public relations.

After Spock died in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan , allowing Nimoy to direct the third filmboth kept the beloved actor involved and gave fans hope their favorite Vulcan would return. But aside from that, Nimoy's first film as a director is a wonderful film and entry into the Star Trek universe. It's the movie that feels more strongly like an episode of the series in terms of narrative, and because it was strictly shot on sets. It's a movie in which nearly every member of the recurring cast has a worthwhile, necessary part. James Horner's score is truly immaculate, eclipsing his impressive work on The Wrath of Khan . Yet, most of what makes Star Trek III work is because of Nimoy's direction and his collaborative nature.

Star Trek: Leonard Nimoy and Gene Roddenberry Feud Explained

When Gene Roddenberry was creating Star Trek in 1964 and 1965, Leonard Nimoy was one of two actors to survive from the first pilot to the second . However, Spock was the only character to return to the USS Enterprise once Captain Pike left and James Kirk took over. He was never meant to be Star Trek 's central character , but it happened anyway. Fans loved him, and Nimoy's dedication as an actor is why. Along with writers like Dorothy D.C. Fontana, Gene L. Coon and others, Nimoy helped shape the character. While this caused some tension with the series' other star, Wiliam Shatner, their shared commitment to the work never impeded it.

Nimoy was so influential that when Star Trek returned in animation, he was able to get most of The Original Series cast back as voice actors . The first film was financially successful, but it was both a production boondoggle and disappointing to fans. Nimoy was also a little sour on the gig, in large part because of Paramount's relentless merchandising of his likeness without fair compensation, according to The Center Seat - 55 Years of Star Trek . When producer Harve Bennett asked him if he wanted a meaty death scene, Nimoy jumped at the chance. Almost everyone involved believed Star Trek II would be the final chapter in the story anyway.

In an interview for the same documentary, Nimoy began to regret the decision to kill Spock in a heroic blaze of glory. The experience of working on The Wrath of Khan was so different from the prior film, the cast began to have fun again. Harve Bennett, a keen producer , also may have realized this. Nimoy said he approached him on the day they shot the death scenes to ask if he had any ideas about something they could add to the scene that might give Spock a pathway to return . Nimoy improvised the idea of doing a mind-meld on an unconscious Doctor McCoy and cryptically saying "Remember." Bennett also later asked ILM to add the final scene on the Genesis planet showing Spock's casket as a tease.

William Shatner Joins Leonard Nimoy's Family in Remembering the Star Trek Legend

Perhaps annoyed with the decision to bring Spock back to life, Meyer declined to return for another sequel. At the same time, Nimoy decided he wanted to "get serious" about directing, according to The Fifty-Year Mission - The First 25 Years by Edward Gross and Mark A. Altman. He asked to direct, but in the interview for The Center Seat , it wasn't as easy as it may have seemed.

Then head of Paramount, Michael Eisner, heard the rumor that Nimoy demanded Spock death in his contract to return for Star Trek II . Nimoy denied this was ever the case and met with Eisner to explain it. During the meeting, Eisner told Nimoy he couldn't have him direct Star Trek III because the alleged death clause in the contract meant the actor "hate[d] Star Trek ." Nimoy said he told the executive to get his contract from The Wrath of Khan and read it. Whether he read it or not, eventually Eisner, Bennett and the rest of the producers soon realized he was their only choice.

Gene Roddenberry was an executive consultant on the film, saying in The Fifty-Year Mission he had misgivings about Nimoy directing. He thought Nimoy "didn't have the broad background of experience" needed, but realized "he does know the show" and they wouldn't have to "break a new director in." Neither Robert Wise nor Meyer were Star Trek fans when they signed on to their respective films. While he hadn't directed films, Nimoy was a longtime stage director and directed episodes of television, including T.J. Hooker starring Shatner.

How Star Trek's Vulcans Evolved Beyond Gene Roddenberry's Creation

Harve Bennett wrote the script for Star Trek III , apparently getting the idea from a fan poem written from Kirk's perspective. "I left you there. Why did I do that?" the poem read. Bennett then conceived the story that brought the characters together to steal the USS Enterprise to go get Spock. Nimoy's contributions to the story went uncredited. He was responsible for much of Vulcan "lore" from the katra (essentially his soul in McCoy's body) and closing the film on Mount Selaya on Spock's home planet. He and Benett also changed the story at Shatner's suggestion to allow Kirk to take more of a leadership role.

In his interview for The Center Seat , Nimoy said he felt like producers were looking over his shoulder on The Search for Spock . He was a novice at feature film direction and working on a restrictive budget and schedule. Robin Curtis replaced Kirstie Alley as Saavik, and the villains of the film were originally Romulans. Nimoy suggested Klingons instead, and Bennett agreed with him after revisiting Star Trek: The Original Series episodes. The studio even hired Marc Okrand to create a realistic Klingon language . However, Nimoy's biggest frustration as a director came not from the cast or crew, but the studio's approach to marketing the film.

Both Nimoy and Bennett wanted to keep the destruction of the original USS Enterprise a secret. The ship was going to be decommissioned anyway, which Roddenberry called a "20th Century concept" in The Fifty-Year Mission . Still, when it came time to market the film, the explosion was put in the trailer and the film was marketed as "the final mission" for the Enterprise. In the commentary for The Search for Spock , both Nimoy and Bennett discuss how much they hated that decision because it perhaps turned the fans against the movie. First, they lost Spock, then they knew they were losing the beloved starship .

The Real Enemy in Star Trek III: The Search for Spock Is Starfleet

In the special features for The Wrath of Khan , William Shatner reveals the "Remember" scene was a surprise to him. He seemed to believe the concept was conceived of before shooting and simply not in the script. There was a longstanding "favored nations clause" in Shatner's contracts as well. Nimoy directed Star Trek III and IV , which meant that Shatner would direct Star Trek V . Still, Shatner and Nimoy were "thick as thieves" on the set, according to publicist Eddie Egan in The Fifty-Year Mission . Even the negotiations with Shatner about rewrites to the script weren't adversarial. Bennett found "merit in much of what he said."

The rest of the cast were also hesitant about seeing their peer behind the camera and running the production. However, Nimoy's demeanor and collaborative nature won them over. James Doohan, Walter Koenig and Nichelle Nichols all praised their time working with him. It went so well that The Voyage Home shoot was cited by many of them as their favorite working experience in various interviews. Similarly, Nimoy found his new role to be a creatively enriching challenge. He knew the characters and the universe so well, while also trusting his colleagues, that there was very little friction or conflict on set .

After 40 years, Star Trek III: The Search for Spock is a better movie than some fans may remember. The film marks the first time that Starfleet was, essentially, an antagonist, and it reinforces the idea these characters are more family than crew. There are sacrifices, including the death of Kirk's son, a deeply cynical move . Still, the film is enjoyable, well-shot and has that ephemeral quality of "feeling like Star Trek ." This is largely down to Nimoy's direction. It's also the film that cemented Star Trek wasn't finished but just getting started on its journey through pop culture.

Star Trek III: The Search for Spock Is Available to Own on Blu-ray, DVD, digital and is streaming on Max.

Star Trek III: The Search for Spock

Admiral Kirk and his bridge crew risk their careers stealing the decommissioned U.S.S. Enterprise to return to the restricted Genesis Planet to recover Spock's body.