Zoe Saldana says that the late Star Trek actress Nickel Nichols “not only prospered, but helped many people prosper” after her death at the age of 89.
The American actress, who also famously played Nicole’s famous role of communications officer Lieutenant Uhura, praised the veteran artist as a “true star” who was “always ahead of her time”.
News of Nichols’ death was announced by his son Kyle Johnson at his officer Facebook Page on Sunday, which said he had died the day before in Silver City, New Mexico.
In a post shared on social media on Monday, Saldana said she had “big shoes” to play Uhura, but that Nichols “made me feel safe”.
“I am saddened to learn of the passing of Nickel Nichols. We have lost a true star – a unique artist who was always ahead of her time,” she said in a lengthy Instagram post.
“She is an icon, an activist and most importantly an amazing woman—who has made a mark that has shown how to see women of color in a different light.
“His striving for equality was unwavering.”
She continued: “Meeting Nickel was really a very special moment in my life. Whenever I was in his presence, his energy was infectious.
“He made me believe that anything can be achieved, if you put your heart into it.
“I knew I had big shoes on when I was selected to play Uhura, and Nickel made me feel safe, told me to play in the world with full confidence.
“It is my hope that we will continue to keep her memory alive by celebrating her wonderful work and spreading the message of peace and equality among all people. She lived a long, influential life and not only prospered, but many others as well. helped to prosper.
“It would be difficult to forget what he said and it would be difficult to forget what he did, and certainly impossible to forget how he made us feel.
“Rest in Power Queen Nickel.”
Other members of the Star Trek family paid tribute to Nichols following the news, describing him as a “trailblazer”.
George Tekiswho starred as Lieutenant Hikaru Sulu of the fictional starship USS Enterprise, said his “heart is heavy” following the news and later shared several lengthy tributes to his “dearest friend”.
Sharing several stories that “are not as famous” he said “Nickel and I spent the following decades not only as colleagues from the bridge of the Enterprise, but as lifelong friends”.
“While fans will remember and honor the famous actress who opened up so many avenues with her presence on screen, I will also miss that dear friend who always tells you to support you, love you and go through this. was there for Weird and wonderful life with you.
,Nickel NicholsYou were one in a million in many ways.”
Kate Mulgrew, who played Captain Catherine Janeway on Star Trek: Voyager, praised Nichols for paving the way for female actresses.
Sharing a photo of Nichols in the role of Lieutenant Uhura TwitterMulgrew wrote: “Nickel Nichols was the first.
“She was a trailblazer who navigated a very challenging trail with patience, grace and a grand fire that we are unlikely to see again. May she rest in peace.”
While actress Jerry Ryan, who played the Borg Drone Seven of Nine in Star Trek: Voyager, said: “RIP to a true legend. His legacy will live on forever” in his tribute.
Star Trek’s official Twitter account also wrote: “We are deeply saddened to report the passing of Nickel Nichols – a trailblazer, an inspiration, and more. He will be greatly missed.”