Walter Koenig, actor who played Chekov on original ‘Star Trek’ series, dies at 90

Walter Koenig, the actor who played Chekov on the original “Star Trek” television series, died as one of the final surviving cast members of the beloved show, his representative confirmed Monday. He was 90. Koenig died at his home in the North Hollywood neighborhood of Los Angeles, talent agent Zachery McGinnis said in a statement. “Today we mourn the passing of Walter Koenig, whose talent, warmth, and unforgettable performances left a lasting mark on generations of fans around the world,” McGinnis said. “Walter helped inspire audiences with his optimism, humor, and adventurous spirit. Beyond Star Trek, his long and distinguished career showcased his versatility as an actor and his genuine love for his craft.” With the death of Koenig, who played trusty Enterprise navigator Pavel Chekov on the timeless science fiction show, just two surviving marquee cast members from the original series remain.

Following the deaths of Leonard Nimoy (2015), DeForest Kelley (1999), James Doohan (2005) and Nichelle Nichols (2022), they are the 95-year-old William Shatner, who played Capt. James T. Kirk, and George Takei, who played Hikaru Sulu. Koenig was the best man at Takei’s wedding, and Takei fondly remembered his colleague as a “thoughtful man, and a loyal friend” Monday. “Walter and I met on the bridge of the Enterprise in the 1960s, and we stayed friends for