Nichols broke barriers for black women in Hollywood when she played communications officer Lt. Uhura in the original “Star Trek” television series and paved the way not only for future actors of color on television, but also for astronauts. Tributes from fellow actors poured in on social media on Sunday. Her “Star Trek” co-star George Takei said he would have more to say soon, but that his heart is heavy. Celia Rose Gooding, who plays Uhura in the current “Star Trek” series, wrote that she “made room for so many of us.” —- “I will have more to say about the groundbreaking, incomparable Nichelle Nichols, who shared the bridge with us as Lieutenant Uhura of the USS Enterprise, and who passed away today at the age of 89. For today, my heart is heavy, my eyes shine like the stars you now rest among, my dear friend,” George Takei, Nichols’ “Star Trek” co-star who played Sulu, tweeted. “He made room for a lot of us. It was the reminder that not only can we reach for the stars, but our influence is essential to their survival. Forget about shaking the table, she built it.” Celia Rose Gooding, who plays Uhura on “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds,” on Twitter.
He made room for many of us. It was the reminder that not only can we reach for the stars, but our influence is essential to their survival. Forget rocking the table, she built it! #RIPNichelleNichols 🕊✨🖖🏾 pic.twitter.com/k1aVw15w3d — ALIEN SUPERSTAR CRG (@celiargooding) July 31, 2022 “Nichelle Nichols was the first. She was a trailblazer who traversed a very difficult path with grit, grace and a wonderful fire that we are not likely to see again. May she rest in peace.” Star Trek: Voyager cast member Kate Mulgrew on Twitter. “Before we knew how much #RepresentationMatters NichelleNichols made it for us. With her very presence and grace she shed light on who we are as people of color and inspired us to reach our potential. Rest well sparkling diamond in the sky.” “Star Trek: Discovery” actor Wilson Cruz on Twitter. “Many actors become stars, but few stars can move a nation. Nichelle Nichols showed us the extraordinary power of black women and paved the way for a better future for all women in media. Thank you, Nichelle. We will miss you.” “Wonder Woman” star Linda Carter on Twitter.
Many actors become stars, but few stars can move a nation. Nichelle Nichols showed us the extraordinary power of black women and paved the way for a better future for all women in media. Thank you, Nichelle. We will miss you. pic.twitter.com/KhUf4YM6pX — Lynda Carter (@RealLyndaCarter) July 31, 2022 “One of my most treasured photos – Godspeed to Nichelle Nichols, champion, warrior and formidable actress. Her kindness and bravery lit the path for many. May he live among the stars forever.” Stacey Abrams, politician, on Twitter. “Nichelle Nichols told us we belong in space. We are limitless. The heavens have acquired a Uhura today.’ Colman Domingo, actor, on Twitter. “My love for the original Star Trek runs deep. Nichelle Nichols has been a groundbreaking and glorious ambassador for her show, her role, and science throughout her life. And a truly wonderful man. May he have a wonderful adventure to the final frontier.” Jason Alexander, actor, on Twitter.
