Science fiction icon, actress Nichelle Nichols, Lieutenant Uhura in the TV series “Star Trek”, died this Saturday (30) at the age of 89.
The news of the death was spread this Sunday by the actress’s son, Kyle Johnson, on Nichelle Nichols’ Instagram account. In a photo showing the flowers under Nichols’s name on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the actress’s son says, “I’m sorry to inform you that a great light in the firmament no longer shines for us as it has for so many years.”
“Last night my mother, Nichelle Nichols, died of natural causes. Her light, however, like the ancient galaxies that are now being seen for the first time, will remain for us and for future generations to enjoy, learn and inspire. Her life was well lived and as such a role model for us all, ”continues Johnson.
“The rest of our family and I appreciate your patience and tolerance as we mourn your loss until we are able to recover enough to talk more. Her services will be aimed at close relatives and friends and we ask that you and our privacy are respected. Live long and thrive, Kyle Johnson, ”concludes the message.
Nichols’ career began on Broadway with the musical “Kicks and Co.” Actress, dancer and singer, Nichols has worked in several plays, started a career in music and appeared in magazines. But it was when she joined the cast of “Star Trek” to play Lieutenant Uhura that Nichelle Nichols made history, becoming one of the first black women to appear in a major American TV series.
Nichols also considered giving up the role in “Star Trek” to pursue a career in theater, but Martin Luther King himself asked her to continue, as he is a huge fan of the series and sees the importance of a black woman who lives in a position of power in a TV series of the time.
After the series was canceled in 1969, Nichols worked on other productions in and around the world of “Star Trek”, but it was with the role of Lieutenant Uhura that the actress was forever marked in TV history.
Several personalities have shared their pain on social media, starting with George Takei, the Sulu of the original series of “Star Trek”: “I will have more to say about the pioneer and incomparable Nichelle Nichols, who shared the bridge with us as Lieutenant Uhura of the USS Enterprise passed away today at the age of 89. Because today my heart is heavy, my eyes shine like the stars between which you now rest, my dear friend. We live long and thrive together ”.
William Shatner, the eternal Captain Kirk, also shared his feelings for Nichols’ death. “I’m so sorry about Nichelle’s disappearance. She was a beautiful woman and she played an admirable character who did a lot to redefine social issues both here in the United States and around the world. I will definitely miss you. I send my love and condolences to your family ”.
Politician Stacy Abrams, who made a cameo appearance in “Star Trek: Discovery,” also spoke of Nichelle Nichols’ death. “One of my most treasured photos – Good luck and go with God to Nichelle Nichols, champion, warrior and amazing actress. Her kindness and her courage have paved the way for many. May you dwell forever among the stars ”.
Lynda Carter, best known for her role as Wonder Woman, stressed Nichelle Nichols’ importance in leading the way for women, especially women of color. “Many actors become stars, but few stars can move a nation. Nichelle Nichols showed us the extraordinary power of women of color and paved the way for a better future for all women in the media. Thanks, Nicola. We will miss you.”
In a speech, US President Joe Biden said, “To Nichelle Nichols, our nation has lost a stage and screen pioneer who redefined what’s possible for both black Americans and women.” Biden stressed his importance in the struggle for civil rights in the United States and his work with NASA to enable young people, especially blacks, to reach previously unimaginable places.
“Our nation is eternally indebted to inspiring artists like Nichelle Nichols, who show us a future where unity, dignity and respect are cornerstones of all societies,” he concluded.
The original “Star Trek” series with Nichelle Nichols is available on Netflix.
The post Nichelle Nichols, from “Star Trek”, died this Saturday at the age of 89 and first appeared on Olhar Digital.
Source: Olhar Digital
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