‘Star Trek’ fame Nichelle Nichols passes away at 89

Nichols’ death was confirmed by Gilbert Bell, her talent manager and business partner of 15 years

Nichelle Nichols, who famously portrayed communications officer Uhura on the original ‘Star Trek’ series, passed away on the night of July 30 in Silver City, N.M. She was 89 years old. As reported by ‘Variety’, Nichols’ death was confirmed by Gilbert Bell, her talent manager and business partner of 15 years. Tributes poured in for Nichols on social media.

Nichelle Nichols was a trailblazer and an icon whose role as Lieutenant Nyota Uhura in the series made her one of the first black actresses in the US to play a figure of authority. She also shared one of the first interracial kisses in television history on ‘Star Trek’. Nichols was also employed by Nasa to encourage more women and African Americans to become astronauts.

In a statement posted on ‘Facebook’, her son Kyle Johnson wrote, “I regret to inform

Her passing left several Hollywood stars who knew and worked with her extremely heartbroken

you that great light in the firmament no longer shines for us as it has for so many years. 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’ passing left several Hollywood stars who knew and worked with her heartbroken. Director J J Abrams wrote on ‘Twitter’, “A remarkable woman in a remarkable role. Nichelle, you will be deeply missed. Sending much love and respect.”

William Shatner wrote, “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.”

Kim Cattrall tweeted, “RIP Nichelle Nichols. You were a beautiful pioneer on Earth as you were in space.”