Tributes have been paid to Star Trek legend Nichelle Nichols following the news that she has passed away, with former co-star George Takei calling her "incomparable."
It was announced earlier today that Nichelle – who is best known for playing Nyota Uhura in the science-fiction franchise – had passed away yesterday (July 30), aged 89.
The news was shared by her son Kyle Johnson, 70, who wrote that Nichelle's "light [...] will remain for us and future generations to enjoy, learn from and draw inspiration."
Nichelle – who has long been considered a trailblazer, particularly for black actors – has a groundbreaking legacy and will forever be known for her iconic role in Star Trek.
Among those who have paid tribute to her was former co-star George Takei, 85, who starred alongside Nichelle in Star Trek: The Original Series and several of its spin-off films.
He wrote: "I shall have more to say about the trailblazing, incomparable Nichelle Nichols, who shared the bridge with us as Lt. Uhura of the USS Enterprise."
"For today, my heart is heavy, my eyes shining like the stars you now rest among, my dearest friend.We lived long and prospered together," he continued in a heartfelt tweet.
The official Star Trek account tweeted: "We're deeply saddened to report the passing of Nichelle Nichols - a trailblazer, an inspiration, and so much more. She will be deeply missed."
Wonder Woman star Lynda Carter, 71, said: "Many actors become stars, but few stars can move a nation. Nichelle Nichols showed us the extraordinary power of Black women and paved the way for a better future for all women in media."
Star Trek: Discovery actor Wilson Cruz said: "With her very presence & her grace she shone a light on who we as people of color are & inspired us to reach for our potential."
NASA tweeted following the news: "We celebrate the life of Nichelle Nichols, Star Trek actor, trailblazer, and role model, who symbolized to so many what was possible."
"She partnered with us to recruit some of the first women and minority astronauts, and inspired generations to reach for the stars," the space agency added in its tweet.
Fans have also paid tribute, with one writing: "I hope Nichelle Nichols is at peace and that she knew how much she meant to all us Black girls who grew up watching her."
"Champion, warrior and tremendous actor. Her kindness and bravery lit the path for many," said another. Whilst a third tweeted: "She was much loved and will be missed."
Another said: "Nichelle Nichols for so many black people of a certain age was the first & only, at the time, dignified non-stereotypical presentation of blackness on TV."
Nichelle is credited as having been one of the first black women to have a leading role in a major TV series with her role as Nyota Uhura on Star Trek from 1966 to 1969.
She played the ship's communication officer on the original TV series as well as in a number of subsequent films and spin-off shows within the hugely successful franchise.
Whoopi Goldberg has long stated that Uhura had meant a lot in terms of representation when she was growing up, saying she showed her that "black people were in the future."
Additionally, Nichelle is credited as having shared the first interracial kisses aired on TV, as well as having worked to recruit astronauts from minority groups.
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