Nichelle Nichols, best known for her pivotal role as Nyota Uhura in the original star trek Chain, died at the age of 89. His son, Kyle Johnson informed his fans in a post on Nichols’ Instagram account.
“Last night, my mother, Nickel Nichols, died of natural causes and passed away,” Johnson writes. “Their light, like the ancient galaxies now being observed for the first time, will remain for us and future generations to enjoy, learn from, and inspire.”
Nichols was born on December 28, 1932 in Robbins, Illinois. before joining the cast of star trekNichols toured as a dancer and singer with jazz artist Duke Ellington, and later starred in the 1959 film Pori and BessieWith all lieutenant Television series (1964).
Nichols joins the cast star trek As Lt. Nyota Uhura in 1966, making history as the first black woman to play a leading role on TV. she almost left star trek for a career in Broadway, but, eventually, a meeting with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. convinced him to remain on the show. Dr. Raja, A star trek Fan himself reminded Nichols of the vital importance of his role, which caused him to withdraw his resignation. Nicholas stayed star trek until the original series ended in 1969.
Nicholas’ legacy reaches far and wide star trek, He partnered with NASA to encourage the recruitment of astronauts from underrepresented backgrounds. Her work helped land the first woman, Sally Ride, and the first black man, Colonel Gion Bluford, into space. 2019 movie, woman in motion, dedicated to the impact of Nichols’ advocacy on NASA. Last December, Nichols announced his retirement from space advocacy after making a final appearance at LA Comic Con.
Nichols’ colleagues and classmates reacted to the news of his death online. Dr. King’s daughter, Bernice, writes on twitter: “Representation matters. Excellence in representation matters even more… well, ancestors.”
George Takei, best known for his role as Hikaru Sulu star trek Also posted a tribute to Nicholso on twitter, “I have to say more about the trailblazing, incomparable Nickel Nichols, who shared the bridge with us as Lieutenant Uhura of the USS Enterprise, and who passed away today at age 89,” says Takei. “For today, my heart is heavy, my eyes are shining like the stars in the midst of which you are now resting, my dear friend.”