Veteran Hollywood actress, Nichelle Nichols, has died.
The actress passed away at the age of 89. She was known for her role in the 1960 sci-fi TV series “Star Trek” produced in Hollywood.
Her son, Kyle Johnson, revealed that she passed away on Saturday night in New Mexico due to natural causes in a Facebook post published on Sunday.
“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.”
After playing communications officer Nyota Uhura in the first season of “Star Trek,” Nichols became a household name and paved the way for black women.
In the 1960s, she also contributed to the dawn of a new era in television.
Since the news of the legendary actress’s passing was made public, tributes have been pouring in.
President of the US, 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.”