Best man to George Takei, Walter Koenig’s death at 90; Star Trek co-star remembers him
Koenig’s Star Trek Legacy
Walter Koenig died at his home in North Hollywood, California, at age 90. He was best known for portraying Russian navigator Ensign Pavel Chekov on Star Trek. Koenig’s representative attributed his death to old age. A specific medical cause was not revealed.
Takei Recalls Their Friendship
In an Instagram tribute, George Takei said he and Koenig met on the Enterprise bridge in the 1960s and remained friends for nearly six decades. Takei remembered Koenig as more than the character Chekov, describing him as a writer, teacher, thoughtful man and loyal friend.
Koenig stood beside Takei and Brad as their best man when they married in 2008. Takei also noted that Koenig turned 90 on September 14, the same day Takei and Brad marked their 18th wedding anniversary.
A Message to Fans
Takei thanked the fans who had loved Koenig over the years, saying Koenig loved them too. He ended his tribute by wishing his friend rest and a steady course. The article gives conflicting timing for Koenig’s death: it says he died on Sunday, October 25, and also quotes Takei saying he passed away early “today” in a tribute posted after the death was announced.
Key points
- Walter Koenig, known for playing Ensign Pavel Chekov, died at 90 in North Hollywood.
- George Takei said they had been friends for nearly six decades.
- Koenig was best man at Takei and Brad’s 2008 wedding.
- Koenig’s representative cited old age, while no specific medical cause was disclosed.