Walter Koenig dies at 90 after six decades in Star Trek
William Shatner and George Takei remember the actor who joined the original crew in 1967 and appeared in all six feature films.
By Julian Khan ·
Walter Koenig died Sunday at 90, ending a career that spanned six decades and included every major Star Trek production.
His representative confirmed he died of natural causes at his home in North Hollywood. Koenig joined the cast of Star Trek: The Original Series in 1967 as Ensign Pavel Chekov. The series aired for three seasons between 1966 and 1969. He later appeared in all six Star Trek films alongside Captain James T. Kirk, played by William Shatner.
Shatner posted a tribute on X on Tuesday. He described Koenig as a man who genuinely loved the Star Trek community. Shatner noted that Koenig rarely stayed behind a signing table at conventions. Instead, he preferred to stand among the fans who had kept the franchise alive for decades.
George Takei, who played Hikaru Sulu on the original series, posted a tribute on Facebook on Monday. Takei described Koenig as a writer, teacher, and loyal friend. He thanked fans for their years of support, noting that Koenig loved them in return.
The two actors shared sets for the later seasons of the original series and the subsequent film cycle. Shatner observed that Koenig’s connection with the fanbase was rare and memorable. Takei wished his friend a steady course in the afterlife.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
