Pioneering ‘Star Trek’ actress Nichelle Nichols dies aged 89

Her role as lieutenant Nyota Uhura on the bridge of the show’s starship was a seen as a groundbreaking representation of black Americans in Hollywood.

She passed away Saturday (30.07.22), with her son Kyle Johnson confirming on Sunday (31.07.22) via Instagram: “Last night, my mother, Nichelle Nichols, succumbed to natural causes and passed away.

“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.

“Hers was a life well lived and as such a model for us all.”

Nichelle rose to fame when she was cast for 1966’s ‘Star Trek’ as its ship’s communications officer.

It was one of the first major roles for a black woman in a US television series and among the first portrayals of a black woman in a military-style command role in any format.

It later culminated in one of the first on-screen kisses between a white actor, William Shatner, and a black co-star.

Nichelle was reportedly persuaded by legendary civil rights activist Dr Martin Luther King Jr to remain in the role.

She went on to reprise the role of Lt Uhura in a number of ‘Star Trek’ films including ‘The Search for Spock’.

The actress also partnered with NASA to recruit more women and candidates of colour to its astronaut and sciences programs.

The drive led to the recruitment of Sally Ride, the first American female astronaut.

In her later years, she met fans and made an appearance at the Los Angeles Comic Con in 2021.