This weekend saw the death of a few entertainment titans. Star Trek legend Nichelle Nickels, who was 89 years old, died.. The role of Lieutenant Nyoto Uhura was played by the veteran actress. Paramount+ subscription). Since Nichols’ passing was made known to the public, fans across the web have been paying tribute to the trailblazing star. Her memory is being remembered by fellow classmates TrekAlums such as George Takei or Willliam Shatner are among them.
George Takei, who was famously the USS Enterprise helmsman Hikaru sulu in both the OG and the films, has shared some thoughts about Nichelle Nichols. This is an InstagramPost, he wrote a touching tribute to his co-star, and shared a sweet photo of them both in another one.
William Shatner (Captain Kirk) responded via Twitter. Shatner and his former star made television history when they teamed up to create “The Captain Kirk Show”. Star Trek characters were a part of one of TV’s most notable interacial kisses (from the 1968 episode “Plato’s Stephchildren”). Shatner spoke fondly about the late actress, and praised how she played such an important role.
Nichelle has passed away. 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. She will be missed. My condolences and love to her family. BillJuly 31, 2022
It is obvious that Nichelle Nichols was a key figure in opening the doors to many other people working in science fiction and the industry, especially women and people of colour. Take, for example: Discovery’s Sonequa Martin Green spoke of NicholsShe was a true inspiration to her. Nichols was also an inspiration to another person. VoyagerAlum Kate Mulgrew, who has returned for Prodigy. The author and the actress took to social media for a loving tribute.
Although the star of the past made her last appearance in Uhura’s final scene, ‘90s, the character lived on and, in 2009, a younger version of the Enterprise crew member (played by Zoe Saldaña) appeared in the theatrical reboot Star Trek. That film was directed by J.J. Abrams, who shared some sentiments of his own after learning of the Heroes alum’s passing:
A remarkable woman playing a remarkable part. Nichelle, your loss will be felt deeply. We send you much love and respect. pic.twitter.com/ZRnMblXx0ZJuly 31, 2022
Adam Nimoy was another sweet tribute, the son to legendary Spock actor Spock. Leonard Nimoy, who passed away at age 83 in 2015. Adam marked the Trek actress’ passing by sharing a sweet behind-the-scenes photo that shows her alongside his dad. It’s available below for you to see:
My favorite picture of Dad and Nichelle Nichols is on set. It is hard to overstate the importance of Nichelle Nichols’ legacy. She was loved greatly and will be deeply missed. pic.twitter.com/1zlTd4F9BDJuly 31, 2022
It was nothing but amazing to see the outpouring love for Nichelle Nichols. And it’s appropriate given just how important she was to the Star TrekThe entertainment industry, society and the franchise. She was an accomplished performer and a tireless advocate for change. As such, Nichols was happy with the current state of the Trek franchiseIt has been a leader in diversity and inclusion in sci-fi. While it’s sad that she’s no longer with us, it’s wonderful that Nichols received so much love while she was here and continues to get it.
CinemaBlend sends our deepest condolences and sympathies to Nichelle Nichols’ family during this difficult time.