Walter Koenig, Star Trek’s Pavel Chekov, Dies at 90

Actor Walter Koenig, best known for playing Pavel Chekov in the original Star Trek television series, has died at 90, his representatives confirmed. Their statement said he died at home in North Hollywood, surrounded by his daughter and niece. The representatives attributed his death to old age. Koenig joined Star Trek in its second season in 1967, portraying the young Russian navigator aboard the USS Enterprise. He appeared as Chekov in the original series and Star Trek films, becoming closely associated with the character over a career that spanned television, film, theater and writing. George Takei, his longtime friend and Star Trek co-star, paid tribute to Koenig on social media. Takei said Koenig had been his best man when he married Brad Altman in 2008. He also described Koenig as a writer, teacher and loyal friend. The two actors played Hikaru Sulu and Chekov, respectively, on the series. Koenig also played Alfred Bester, a telepathic antagonist, in the science-fiction series Babylon 5. He appeared in 12 episodes from 1994 to 1998. His other screen work included roles in General Hospital and Columbo, as well as the science-fiction film Moontrap. Born in Chicago in 1936...