August 01, (THEWILL) – Veteran Hollywood actress, Nichelle Nichols, has passed on. She was 89 years before her demise.
Known for her feature in Hollywood sci-fi TV series in 1960, ‘Star Trek’.
In a Facebook statement shared on Sunday, her son, Kyle Johnson, disclosed that she died in New Mexico of natural causes on Saturday night.
“I regret to inform you that a 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”, he wrote.
Nichols gained global fame and broke ground for black women after she played Nyota Uhura, the communications officer, in the original ‘Star Trek’ series.
She also helped to create a new era for television in the 1960s.
Tributes have been pouring in for the iconic actress since news of her death was announced.
US president, Joe Biden, wrote: “Our nation has lost a trailblazer of stage and screen who redefined what is possible for Black Americans and women.
“Our nation is forever indebted to inspiring artists like Nichelle Nichols, who showed us a future where unity, dignity, and respect are cornerstones of every society.”
On his part, George Takei, a co-star, took to Twitter to state that his heart was heavy, “My eyes shining like the stars you now rest among, my dearest friend”, he also wrote.
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