The Star Trek fame Nichelle Nichols sadly passed away at 89. The actor played the iconic role of Nyota Uhura in the series which was also a fan favorite among many viewers. The actress had a very rich career in acting. Not only that but she also had a huge role in empowering women and minorities in NASA. Recently on this July 30, her son Kyle Johnson revealed that unfortunately, his mother passed away due to natural circumstances.
Also Read: Who Is David Warner: Internet Takes a Knee for Star Trek, Scream 2 Star Who Passed Away at 80
Who was Nichelle Nichols?
Nichelle Nichols was born to a factory worker in Robins, Illinois. She was a celebrated actor, singer, and dancer, and even sometimes tried her hands at modeling. The iconic role of Nyota Uhura in Star Trek: The Original Series was her breakthrough performance and she achieved great heights after that.
In an Instagram post on Nichols’ account made by her son Kyle Johnson, he shared a heartfelt note stating that his mother passed away. Kyle Johnson shared a photo of Nichelle Nichols’ Star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame and the caption read:
“I regret to inform you that a great light in the firmament no longer shines for us as it has for so many years,” Johnson wrote. “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.”
Also Read: Star Trek: Spock Actor Zachary Quinto Says Whole Cast Wants Star Trek 4
He further continued that the family would take some time to recover from the loss and till then they would appreciate our patience regarding the unfortunate incident:
“Hers was a life well lived and as such a model for us all. I, and the rest of our family, would appreciate your patience and forbearance as we grieve her loss until we can recover sufficiently to speak further.”
Even though Nichelle Nichols was popular due to her Star Trek career, she made her debut with the musical titled Kicks and Co. After her inclusion in the popular intergalactic TV Show, she was the first black woman to be introduced in a television series.
Also Read: Beloved Star Trek Actors Who Still Regret The Day They Said Yes To This Franchise
Nichelle Nichols’ contribution to space travel:
Related: Star Trek: The Next Generation Cast – Then vs. Now
Besides the sci-fi show, Nichelle Nichols also had a major role in Space Travel. She promoted diversity and thus helped to recruit women and minorities for space travel. She started a company called Women in Motion which helped women astronauts to go for space travel. Along with NASA, she also helped several notable women astronauts in their journey.
Nichelle Nicols’ death is indeed a very tragic loss not only for the Star Trek fans but also for everyone outside and inside the industry.
Rest in Peace, Nichelle Nichols
Source: Instagram
Read More: Here’s How Horrible Chris Pratt’s Star Trek and Avatar Auditions Were
