Leonard Nimoy Is Done With Star Trek, Forever
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In the early years Leonard Nimoy had a love/hate relationship with playing Spock. He’s always had a deep affection for the character and for his fans, but Nimoy has always been first and foremost and artist, an artist who wanted to push himself to do more. When Paramount wanted him to play Spock in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, he refused to do it unless they promised to kill the character off and then later as a condition of coming back, demanded they let him direct the next one. As it turns out, both of those things were pretty good decisions.
In more recent years he’s been far less conflicted about playing Spock, he’s really embraced being a part of the Star Trek universe wholeheartedly. If you’ve ever been to a Star Trek convention you’ve probably found him there, happily telling stories and mind-melding with the people who love him best.
But no more.
This past weekend Nimoy attended a Star Trek convention in Chicago, to celebrate the 45th anniversary of Star Trek and, while there, announced that this would be his last convention. He’s 80 years old and looking increasingly frail. He’s earned his retirement.
He’d already announced his retirement from acting, early last year, and for the most part he’s stuck to that. He won’t be in the next JJ Abrams directed Star Trek as Spock, or be anywhere else. Leonard Nimoy is ready to enjoy his home life, and while we’ll miss him, we wish him well.
Here’s Leonard’s final convention goodbye, as captured inexpertly by a fan:
Peace and long life, Leonard.
