From left, Nichelle Nichols, Brad Altman, George Takei and Walter Koenig pose for photos following the wedding of Altman and Takei at the National Center for the Preservation of Democracy in Little Tokyo on Sept. 14, 2008. Nichols, Takei and Koenig were members of the original cast of “Star Trek.”
Walter Koenig, who played navigator Pavel Chekov in the original “Star Trek,” died from natural causes at his home in North Hollywood on Oct. 25 at the age of 90.
Koenig, who also played Chekov in seven movies, was one of the last surviving cast members of the 1966-69 TV series along with William Shatner (Capt. Kirk) and George Takei (Hikaru Sulu).
His final Star Trek appearance was in an episode of “Picard” as the voice of Anton Chekov, Pavel’s son.
Takei posted on social media, “My heart is heavy. Walter Koenig, our Ensign Pavel Chekov, passed away early today.
“Walter and I met on the bridge of the Enterprise in the 1960s, and we stayed friends for nearly six decades. When Brad and I married in 2008, Walter stood beside us as our best man. Just last month, on Sept. 14, he turned 90, on the same day Brad and I celebrated our 18th wedding anniversary. I will always treasure that he and I shared that date.
“Walter was more than Chekov. He was a writer, a teacher, a thoughtful man, and a loyal friend. To the fans who loved him for so many years, thank you. He loved you too.
“Rest well, my dear friend. Keep navigating a steady course.”
Garrett Wang, who played Harry Kim on “Star Trek: Voyager,” posted, “Of all the original series actors, over the years, I spent the most time with Walter. Whether it was working on a film with him, or having dinner, or bumping into him at a convention, we shared many moments together.
“Thank you for all the laughter and sharing your stories of both the highs and lows of your life. I will forever remember and cherish the friendship we had. Rest in peace, Walter.”