Kenneth Mitchell, the actor renowned for his performances in “Star Trek,” passed away on Saturday, as reported by StarTrek.com. He was 49 years old.
Mitchell received the diagnosis of ALS, a degenerative neurological condition, over five years ago, as stated on his Instagram page. The statement mentioned that he encountered significant challenges during those years.
Despite the difficulties, Mitchell managed to overcome each obstacle with grace and a dedication to living a fulfilling and joyful life in every moment, as stated in the message. He lived by the belief that each day is a gift and that no one walks alone.
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, impacts the nerve cells responsible for muscle movement in both the upper and lower body, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The disease causes the nerve cells to deteriorate and cease functioning.
In the United States, it is estimated that over 30,000 individuals are living with ALS, with an average of 5,000 new diagnoses each year. Most individuals with ALS survive between two to five years after the onset of symptoms.
On August 10, Mitchell shared an Instagram post detailing his experience of living with ALS.
“It’s been a long 5 years. So much lost, so much gained. Incredibly hard times, mixed with so many more blessings,” he expressed. “At the heart of it all are friends and family, caregivers and doctors coming to the aid of my family over and over and over again.”
In 2020, Mitchell publicly discussed his diagnosis in an interview with PEOPLE.
“The moment that they told us it was [ALS], it was like I was in my own movie,” Mitchell recounted. “That’s what it felt like, like I was watching that scene where someone is being told that they have a terminal illness. It was just a complete disbelief, a shock.”
Following his diagnosis, Mitchell continued to appear in various roles.
He portrayed the Klingons Kol, Kol-Sha, and Tenavik, as well as Aurellio, on “Star Trek: Discovery,” as per StarTrek.com. Additionally, he lent his voice to multiple characters in an episode of “Star Trek: Lower Decks.”
