Star Trek legend William Shatner is remembering his co-star and acquaintance of 60 years, Walter Koenig, in the wake of his death.
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Koenig, beloved by generations of Star Trek fans for playing Ensign Pavel Chekov in the original series as well as various films and spinoffs, died on Oct. 25 at the age of 90.
Shatner took to social media to pay tribute to his late co-star in a candid tribute.
"I am deeply saddened to learn of Walter Koenig's passing," the 95-year-old began in his Oct. 27 X post.
Known for his candor, the Boston Legal actor went on to admit he wasn't close with his frequent co-star. However, that didn't mean that Shatner didn't admire the way Koenig treated Star Trek fans over the years.
"What I observed, and what so many fans have expressed over the years, was a man who genuinely loved the Star Trek community," Shatner continued. "At conventions, Walter was rarely content to remain behind a signing table. He preferred to be among the people who had kept Star Trek alive for so many decades. That kind of genuine connection is rare, and it will be remembered by everyone who came into contact with him."
"My condolences to his family, his friends, and the countless fans whose lives he touched," the veteran actor and singer concluded.
'Star Trek' Star George Takei and Fans Also Pay Tribute to Walter Koenig
The only other surviving main original Star Trek cast member, George Takei, also paid a more personal tribute to Koenig.
"Walter and I met on the bridge of the Enterprise in the 1960s, and we stayed friends for nearly six decades," Takei wrote alongside a recent snapshot of the two. "Walter was more than Chekhov. He was a writer, a teacher, a thoughtful man, and a loyal friend. To the fans who loved him for so many years, thank you. He loved you too. Rest well, my dear friend. Keep navigating a steady course."
Meanwhile, the replies to Shatner's post honoring Koenig were filled with fans' memories of the late actor.
"Saw him last in 2024 at DragonCon," one fan wrote. "He came from behind the table and came up behind me to ask if he could pet my service dog. Was about to say, sorry no...then saw it was him. "Yes, YOU can!" He got in the floor and gave [my dog] a ton of love."
"A legend of Star Trek and Babylon 5. RIP, sir; these shows will entertain millions for the rest of time," another fan offered.
