Uhura successor Zoe Saldana
Actress mourns the passing of Nichelle Nichols
Zoe Saldana (left) mourns the loss of Nichelle Nichols.
© imago images/PicturePerfect
Zoe Saldana mourns the loss of Star Trek star Nichelle Nichols. The women had a special connection: Both embodied the role of Uhura.
The news of Nichelle Nichols’ (1932-2022) death triggered a wave of grief in Hollywood. The actress played the communications officer Lieutenant Uhura in the “Star Trek” series (1966-1969) and made television history with it. From 2009 Zoe Saldana (44) took over the role in the reboot series. The 44-year-old now says goodbye to Instagram.
“I knew I had big shoes to fill when I was cast as Uhura,” the actress wrote in a long post. “Nichelle made me feel safe and told me to play her with all the confidence in the world.”
Nichelle Nichols paved the way for many
Meeting Nichols was a very special moment for Saldana. “Her energy was contagious every time.” She was an icon and an amazing woman who paved a path that showed so many how to see women of color in a different light.
Her striving for equality was unshakable. “I hope we continue to uphold her memory by celebrating her amazing work and spreading the message of peace and equality among all people.” In addition to the loving words, Saldana posted several pictures showing both actresses side by side or Nichols in her role as Uhura. The post ends with the words: “Rest in force Queen Nichelle.”
Nichelle Nichols was 89 years old
Nichelle Nichols passed away Saturday night (July 30) in Silver City, New Mexico. She was 89 years old. Her son Kyle Johnson shared the sad news on Sunday on his Instagram account with: “Last night my mother, Nichelle Nichols, died of natural causes.” He also posted her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame with a bouquet of roses on it.