Canadian actor Kenneth Mitchell, who played several Star Trek characters, has died after complications from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, according to an Instagram announcement.
Canadian actor, Kenneth Mitchell PHOTO Instagram
Canadian actor Kenneth Mitchell, known for his roles in Star Trek: Discovery and the movie Captain Marvel, has died of complications from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), notes The Guardian.
Mitchell, who was 49, died on Saturday, according to an announcement on his official Instagram account.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kenneth Alexander Mitchell, beloved father, husband, brother, uncle, son and dear friend to many”the release states.
“For five and a half years, Ken faced a series of terrifying challenges due to ALS. And in his true characteristic fashion, he managed to rise above and live a full and happy life in every moment”, is the continuation of the message.
“He lived by the principle that every day is a gift and that we are never alone. His life is a shining example of how fulfilled one can be when living with love, compassion, humor, inclusion and community.”it is also shown at the end of the post.
The actor's death was also mourned in a statement on the official Star Trek website:
“The entire Star Trek family extends its condolences to Mitchell's family, friends, loved ones and fans worldwide”. He played several roles in Star Trek: Discovery, including the Klingons Kol, Kol-Sha and Tenavik, as well as Aurellio.
In addition to his Star Trek roles, Mitchell also starred in the Marvel film Captain Marvel, as well as the post-apocalyptic television series Jericho, among other projects.
Mitchell leaves behind two children and his grieving wife, Susan May Pratt. The actor asked that any gifts be directed to ALS research or in support of his children.
With an average of 5,000 people diagnosed each year in the US, ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms include difficulty walking, slurred speech, as well as muscle weakness that eventually affects chewing, swallowing, speaking, and breathing.
