Legendary actor Leonard Nimoy best known for playing Spock in the original “Star Trek” movie series passed away at his home at the age of 83 on February 27 in Los Angeles. The actor passed away a few days after he was reported getting hospitalized at UCLA Medical Center for severe chest pains. Nimoy will forever be remembered by the geek community as one of the most influential characters in pop culture history, and he has moved on to the next life as a legend and inspiration to many. He played Spock in the first six “Star Trek” films and directed two of them, and also starred on “Fringe” and voiced Sentinel in “Transformers: Dark of the Moon”. His survivors include wife Susan and children Adam & Julie.
The star reportedly passed away of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which is often caused by smoking. He was laid to rest at 09:00 PST (17:00 GMT) on Sunday.
Enjoy Leonard Nimoy’s Most Emotional and Fun Spock Moments
‘Star Trek’ Star Leonard Nimoy’s Death Mourned By Hollywood
Zachary Quinto who played spock in the newly released “Star Trek” films took to instagram with the following message:
“my heart is broken. i love you profoundly my dear friend. and i will miss you everyday. may flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.”
William Shatner, best known for playing Captain Kirk on the original Star Trek series said in a statement:
“I loved him like a brother,” “We will all miss his humor, his talent, and his capacity to love.”
Nichelle Nichols, 82, who played Uhura in the series, released the following statement:
“I am deeply saddened by the death of my dear friend Leonard Nimoy. But, I also want to celebrate his extraordinary life. He was a true force of strength and his character was that of a champion. Leonard’s integrity and passion as an actor and devotion to his craft helped transport STAR TREK into television history. His vision and heart are bigger than the universe. I will miss him very much and send heartfelt wishes to his family.”
RIP Leonard Nimoy
New Star Trek franchise helmer J.J. Abrams also paid tribute to Nimoy:
“Dearest Leonard, What a man you were. What a life you lived. As funny and thoughtful and generous and loving as you were talented. You taught us all at every encounter. We will miss and love you forever.”
The son of Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry, Eugene “Rod” Roddenberry, also reflected on Nimoy’s passing:
“The death of Leonard Nimoy is indeed an immense loss to us all. I only hope that during this difficult time we can all take comfort in the everlasting impact he has made,” the Roddenberry Entertainment CEO said in a statement. “As Spock he portrayed the first Roddenberry character, an outsider who truly let us see ourselves. Leonard Nimoy’s talent allowed millions to learn more about who we are and who we want to be. I will always thank him for that.”
RIP Leonard Nimoy
Seth MacFarlane:
“Leonard Nimoy brought us one of the greatest, noblest characters in the history of American storytelling. Someone find the Genesis planet.”
Natha Fillion:
“I have been, and always shall be, your fan. Thank you.”
Tom Hanks:
“Leonard Nimoy was more than Mr. Spock. But Mr. Spock is his gift to us all. Live long and prosper. HANX.”
Source: hollywoodreporter.com, hollywoodlife.com, bbc.com
