Nichelle Nicholswho played Lt. Uhura on ‘Star Trek,’ has died … according to her family.
Nichols’ son, Kyle Johnsonconfirmed the news Sunday with an update posted to a website dedicated to his mother’s life and career … writing, “I regret to inform you that a great light in the firmament no longer shines for us as it has therefore. many years.”
2. A statement from Nichelle Nichols’ son, Kyle. pic.twitter.com/upx7S48cVn
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He adds: “Last night, my mother, Nichelle Nichols, succumbed to natural causes and passed away. Her light, however, like the ancient galaxies now seen for the first time, will remain so that we and future generations can enjoy it, and be inspired. His was a life well lived and a model for us all.”
Kyle ends by saying this… “I and the rest of our family, would appreciate your patience and forbearance as we grieve his loss until we can recover enough to speak further. His services will be for family members and her closest friends and we ask that you respect her and our privacy.” He also sent a shout “Live long and prosper.”
Nichols made history as the first African-American woman to have a leading role on television. And with the co-star of “Star Trek: The Original Series”. William Shatner … also shared the first on-screen kiss between a black woman and a white man on American television.
He played the role for a handful of years and starred in dozens of episodes of ‘Star Trek’ between ’66 and ’69. However, her acting career went far beyond the galactic barrier.
With 69 acting credits to his name, NN has appeared in a number of hit shows and movies over the years, including notable voice-over roles such as… “The Lieutenant,” “Peyton Place” , “Tarzan,” “Truck Turner.” , “Supernatural,” “Batman: The Animated Series,” “Gargoyles,” “Spider-Man: The Animated Series,” “Futurama,” “Buzz Lightyear of Star Command,” “The Simpsons,” “Snow Dogs” . ”Are we there yet?” ‘Heroes’, ‘The Young and the Restless’ and many others.
Towards the end of his life, Nichols was in an often bitter custody battle with his son, this after he was granted control of the device once he was diagnosed with dementia… a legal battle which lasted for several years, and sometimes got pretty ugly.
Nichelle Nichols was 89 years old. RIP
