Star Trek actor Walter Koenig dies aged 90 as George Takei pays tribute
Developing story first seen 2 hours ago
New details about Walter Koenig’s death include a tribute from George Takei, who said they had been friends for nearly six decades. Koenig, best known as Ensign Pavel Chekov in Star Trek, has died aged 90; his representative said he died of natural causes in North Hollywood.
Koenig played the Russian-American navigator in the series’ second and third seasons, from 1967 to 1969, and returned for the first seven Star Trek films, released from 1979 to 1994. Takei remembered him as a writer, teacher and loyal friend, while Koenig’s representative highlighted his warmth towards fans. His death comes as the original series marks its 60th anniversary; although it was not a major ratings success during its first run, syndication later helped it become a lasting cultural phenomenon.
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In short
- George Takei paid tribute to his friend of nearly six decades.
- Koenig played Chekov in the series and first seven films.
- He died aged 90 as Star Trek marks 60 years.
How this story developed
- 8 minutes ago George Takei has paid tribute to Koenig, recalling their nearly six decades of friendship and praising his generosity towards fans, while reports differ on the end year of Koenig’s Star Trek film appearances.
- 12 minutes ago Walter Koenig, the actor who played Pavel Chekov in Star Trek, has died aged 90, his representative said, as the series marks its 60th anniversary.
Explained simply
Star Trek is a science-fiction television series about the crew of a starship exploring space. Its original series aired in the 1960s and later gained a much larger audience through repeat broadcasts, spawning films and other programmes.
Walter Koenig played Pavel Chekov, the ship’s navigator, joining the cast in the second season. He returned to the role in several films, alongside castmates including George Takei, who played Hikaru Sulu.
The series became influential in popular culture and helped shape later science fiction on television and film. Chekov was one of its recurring characters, and Koenig’s work connected him with generations of viewers.
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Originally published by Deadline as “Walter Koenig Dies: ‘Star Trek’s Original Ensign Chekov Was 90”.