Star Trek and Captain Marvel actor passes away at 49
Kenneth Mitchell, the actor known for his roles in Star Trek: Discovery and Captain Marvel, has tragically passed away at the age of 49.
His death comes after a courageous five-year battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
The news of Mitchell's passing was announced by his family in a heartfelt statement shared on social media platforms.
'With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Kenneth Alexander Mitchell, beloved father, husband, brother, uncle, son and dear friend,' the statement read.
'Ken was widely known as an actor in many films and television shows. He’s portrayed an Olympic hopeful, an apocalypse survivor, an astronaut, a superhero’s dad, and four unique Star Trekkers.’
Mitchell was diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, in 2018.
The disease is known for its rapid progression, and by 2019, Mitchell had begun using a wheelchair.
Despite the severity of his condition, he chose to go public with his health struggles in 2020, demonstrating his resilience and strength in the face of adversity.
In a magazine interview, Mitchell reflected on the moment he and his wife learned of his diagnosis.
'I do remember there was something really simple and beautiful in a way, how my wife and I were in the trenches together, and how we from this moment on we’re having to deal with something so severe that was going to affect our lives forever,' he said.
'We grieved and mourned really hard. There was so much unknown,’ he added.
After his diagnosis, Mitchell became an advocate for those living with the disease, using his voice to highlight the challenges and the urgent need for research and support.
Mitchell participated in various ALS awareness campaigns and events, including the Walk to Defeat ALS. His openness about his condition brought much-needed attention to the disease, inspiring others with his message of hope and determination. He often spoke about the importance of living life to the fullest, regardless of the obstacles one might face.
Star Trek fans worldwide are mourning the loss of Mitchell, who brought to life the characters of the Klingons Kol, Kol-Sha, Tenavik and Aurellio on Star Trek: Discovery.
His versatility as an actor was further showcased when he served as a voice actor for several characters in an episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks.
The official Star Trek website, StarTrek.com, released a statement expressing their condolences.
'The entire Star Trek family sends their condolences to Mitchell’s family, friends, loved ones, and fans around the world,' the statement read.
Several fans and followers on social media have expressed their condolences as well.
One person commented: ‘Glad you’re at peace and not in any more pain, Kenneth. Tell the Great Bird of the Galaxy we all said hi, and thanks for so many memories.’
‘My condolences. The Trek family has lost an incredible spirit. Sleep well, Ken,’ another wrote.
‘My dad passed from ALS 7 months ago. It is a ruthless and unfair disease. I loved Ken in Trek, Jericho, etc. Great actor. Just awful news, I'm so so sorry,’ a third person shared.
Beyond his memorable roles in the Star Trek universe, Mitchell also made his mark in Hollywood with his role in Captain Marvel.
You can learn the rest of his family’s statement here:
Source: E! News/Youtube
His untimely death is a significant loss to the entertainment industry, and he leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances that will continue to inspire and entertain future generations.
As we remember Kenneth Mitchell, we celebrate his life and his contributions to the world of entertainment. His courage in the face of adversity, his talent, and his dedication to his craft will forever be remembered. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.
Have you seen any of Kenneth Mitchell's performances? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
His death comes after a courageous five-year battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
The news of Mitchell's passing was announced by his family in a heartfelt statement shared on social media platforms.
'With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Kenneth Alexander Mitchell, beloved father, husband, brother, uncle, son and dear friend,' the statement read.
'Ken was widely known as an actor in many films and television shows. He’s portrayed an Olympic hopeful, an apocalypse survivor, an astronaut, a superhero’s dad, and four unique Star Trekkers.’
Mitchell was diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, in 2018.
The disease is known for its rapid progression, and by 2019, Mitchell had begun using a wheelchair.
Despite the severity of his condition, he chose to go public with his health struggles in 2020, demonstrating his resilience and strength in the face of adversity.
In a magazine interview, Mitchell reflected on the moment he and his wife learned of his diagnosis.
'I do remember there was something really simple and beautiful in a way, how my wife and I were in the trenches together, and how we from this moment on we’re having to deal with something so severe that was going to affect our lives forever,' he said.
'We grieved and mourned really hard. There was so much unknown,’ he added.
After his diagnosis, Mitchell became an advocate for those living with the disease, using his voice to highlight the challenges and the urgent need for research and support.
Mitchell participated in various ALS awareness campaigns and events, including the Walk to Defeat ALS. His openness about his condition brought much-needed attention to the disease, inspiring others with his message of hope and determination. He often spoke about the importance of living life to the fullest, regardless of the obstacles one might face.
Star Trek fans worldwide are mourning the loss of Mitchell, who brought to life the characters of the Klingons Kol, Kol-Sha, Tenavik and Aurellio on Star Trek: Discovery.
His versatility as an actor was further showcased when he served as a voice actor for several characters in an episode of Star Trek: Lower Decks.
The official Star Trek website, StarTrek.com, released a statement expressing their condolences.
'The entire Star Trek family sends their condolences to Mitchell’s family, friends, loved ones, and fans around the world,' the statement read.
Several fans and followers on social media have expressed their condolences as well.
One person commented: ‘Glad you’re at peace and not in any more pain, Kenneth. Tell the Great Bird of the Galaxy we all said hi, and thanks for so many memories.’
‘My condolences. The Trek family has lost an incredible spirit. Sleep well, Ken,’ another wrote.
‘My dad passed from ALS 7 months ago. It is a ruthless and unfair disease. I loved Ken in Trek, Jericho, etc. Great actor. Just awful news, I'm so so sorry,’ a third person shared.
Beyond his memorable roles in the Star Trek universe, Mitchell also made his mark in Hollywood with his role in Captain Marvel.
You can learn the rest of his family’s statement here:
Source: E! News/Youtube
His untimely death is a significant loss to the entertainment industry, and he leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances that will continue to inspire and entertain future generations.
Key Takeaways
- Actor Kenneth Mitchell, known for his roles in Star Trek: Discovery and Captain Marvel, has passed away at the age of 49.
- Mitchell had been battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) for five years before his passing.
- His family released a statement confirming his death and highlighting his roles in various films and television shows.
- Star Trek fans and the Star Trek community are mourning his loss, recognising his contribution to the franchise by playing multiple characters.
As we remember Kenneth Mitchell, we celebrate his life and his contributions to the world of entertainment. His courage in the face of adversity, his talent, and his dedication to his craft will forever be remembered. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.
Have you seen any of Kenneth Mitchell's performances? Share your thoughts in the comments below.