The death of “Star Trek” legend Nichelle Nichols Sunday opened the flood gates of mourners who remembered her not only for her cosmic contribution to the entertainment industry as one of the first Black women featured in a major TV series, but also for the warmth and generosity of her soul.
George Takei, who worked alongside her on the Enterprise bridge during the 1966-1969 run of the original “Star Trek,” was grief-stricken by the news, writing, “my heart is heavy, my eyes shining like the stars you now rest among, my dearest friend.”
Fellow “Star Trek” actress, Kate Mulgrew — who appeared on “Star Trek: Voyager” — called Nichols a “trailblazer” whose “grit, grace, and a gorgeous fire we are not likely to see again.”
Others in the “Star Trek” universe also expressed their sympathies, like Jeri Ryan (“Star Trek: Voyager,” “Star Trek: Picard”) and Marina Sirtis (“Star Trek: The Next Generation”), who said Nichols “led the way and opened the door for the rest of us who followed in your wake.”
Rod Roddenberry, son of “Star Trek” creator Gene Roddenberry and the executive producer of several “Star Trek” series spinoffs, remembers Nichols fondly and honors “her tremendous legacy.”
“I recall a Star Trek event that took place soon after my father passed,” Roddenberry began. “I was more of a bystander, but when it came time for the cast on The Original Series to pose for photos, Nichelle practically hoisted me up onto stage to be a part of the [sic] it all, to be included, to be among family. That wasn’t the only occasion when I can remember her bringing me into the Star Trek fold, and it was in those moments that I came to realize my connection to both my father and to Star Trek would continue on. There was still a mantle to be upheld and work to be done. As I tearfully say goodbye to my friend, Nichelle, I honor her tremendous legacy, which I know will continue on. There is still work ahead of us, and it will be done, because she inspires us to do it.”
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