America has lost one of its most iconic actors. Leonard Nimoy is dead at age 83.
Leonard Nimoy, best known for playing the role of Spock in the “Star Trek” movies and television series has died at age 83, his rep confirmed to FOX411. Nimoy was taken to the hospital earlier this week and treated for lung disease. His son told the Associated Press he died in Los Angeles. The actor wrote on Twitter last month that he suffers from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, despite quitting smoking 30 years ago. On Sunday, he tweeted: “A life is like a garden. Perfect moments can be had, but not preserved, except in memory. “
The influence of Star Trek can not be overstated. Many of us who went into careers involving science, engineering and technology spent many happy hours watching this wonderful television series. I remember playing Star Trek in the school yard; a boy I had a crush on took on the role of Kirk, so given my grades, attitude, and short, dark hair I pretended I was the Vulcan master of logic.
My son and I spent most of the past fall and winter watching the Star Trek sequel series. While he enjoyed Worf’s Klingon character more, he cheered whenever Spock made a guest appearance. Clearly, Nimoy will continue to inspire even more generations of young scientists, engineers, and game designers.
As a pundit, I must admit Star Trek inspired some of my best work (e.g., Tin Plated Over Bearing Swaggering Dictator with Delusions of Godhood). I also created this gem for a Tea Party event.
America is deeply saddened by the loss, and news of Nimoy’s passing spread quickly through social media. Unfortunately, the state of communications today is such that a story about his “hoax death” was being spread, too. This is one case in which I wouldn’t have minded being hoaxed.
I really admired Nimoy’s sense of perspective when it came to his signature role, and his sense of humor. Here is one of my favorite commercials, featuring a battle of speed and wits between “Old Spock” Nimoy and “New Spock” Zachary Quinto.
Truly, we have lost a very special and inspirational American today. Prayers for his soul and the comfort of his family.
I would like to end with a video of one of my very favorite episodes of “Star Trek”: Season 2, Episode 10 – “Mirror, Mirror”.
Though he has passed away, his work will continue to inspire Americans to “reach for the stars”. It is about the best legacy an actor could leave.
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