Hey Trekkies! Ever wondered what happened to the amazing cast of Star Trek: The Motion Picture? Released in 1979, this movie holds a special place in the hearts of many fans. It marked the return of the original crew, but what are they up to now? Let's dive in and explore the journeys of these iconic actors. This article will give you an inside look at the cast of the first Star Trek movie, both then and now, and provide insights into their careers and contributions to the Star Trek universe.

The Bridge Crew

The bridge crew of the USS Enterprise is the heart and soul of Star Trek, and Star Trek: The Motion Picture brought them back in stunning fashion. Seeing these familiar faces reunited on the big screen was a dream come true for fans. Let's take a closer look at each of them and see what they've been up to since.

William Shatner as Admiral James T. Kirk

William Shatner, the legendary James T. Kirk, has continued to captivate audiences long after his initial voyages through space. In Star Trek: The Motion Picture, Kirk is now an Admiral, feeling somewhat desk-bound and eager to get back to the captain's chair. Shatner's portrayal of Kirk is iconic, marked by his distinctive delivery and commanding presence. After Star Trek: The Motion Picture, Shatner continued to play Kirk in several more films and made appearances in Star Trek: The Next Generation. Beyond Star Trek, Shatner has had a prolific career in television and film. He starred in T.J. Hooker in the 1980s, showcasing his versatility as an actor. More recently, he's appeared in shows like Boston Legal, for which he won an Emmy Award. Shatner has also explored his talents as an author, writing numerous books, including memoirs and science fiction novels. His adventurous spirit isn't confined to the screen; he became the oldest person to go to space on a Blue Origin flight in 2021, proving that he truly embodies the spirit of exploration that Star Trek celebrates. With his enduring charisma and diverse talents, William Shatner remains a beloved figure in entertainment.

Leonard Nimoy as Spock

Leonard Nimoy's Spock is arguably one of the most recognizable characters in science fiction history. His portrayal of the logical Vulcan with a hidden emotional core resonated with audiences worldwide. In Star Trek: The Motion Picture, Spock is on his journey of Kolinahr, seeking to purge all emotion. Nimoy brought a sense of depth and complexity to Spock that made him endlessly fascinating. Following Star Trek: The Motion Picture, Nimoy continued to play Spock in subsequent films and made memorable appearances in Star Trek: The Next Generation. Beyond Star Trek, Nimoy had a diverse career as an actor, director, and artist. He directed several successful films, including Star Trek III: The Search for Spock and Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home. Nimoy was also an accomplished photographer, with his work exhibited in galleries and museums. He wrote several books, including his autobiographies I Am Not Spock and I Am Spock, which explored his complex relationship with the character that defined his career. Leonard Nimoy passed away in 2015, but his legacy as Spock and his contributions to the arts continue to inspire and influence generations of fans.

DeForest Kelley as Dr. Leonard "Bones" McCoy

DeForest Kelley as Dr. Leonard "Bones" McCoy provided the heart and humanity to the original Star Trek crew. His folksy charm and unwavering loyalty made him a fan favorite. In Star Trek: The Motion Picture, McCoy is reluctantly drawn back into Starfleet, bringing his medical expertise and his ever-present bedside manner. Kelley's portrayal of McCoy offered a counterpoint to Kirk's command and Spock's logic, creating a dynamic that was essential to the show's success. After Star Trek: The Motion Picture, Kelley continued to play McCoy in the subsequent films. Outside of Star Trek, Kelley had a long and varied career in television and film, often appearing in Westerns before his role as Dr. McCoy. While he may not have sought the spotlight as much as his co-stars, his contribution to Star Trek is undeniable. DeForest Kelley passed away in 1999, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most beloved characters in science fiction history.

James Doohan as Montgomery "Scotty" Scott

James Doohan's portrayal of Montgomery "Scotty" Scott, the Enterprise's chief engineer, brought a sense of warmth and humor to the bridge. His Scottish brogue and knack for pulling off miraculous repairs made him an indispensable member of the crew. In Star Trek: The Motion Picture, Scotty is instrumental in getting the Enterprise ready for its mission. After Star Trek: The Motion Picture, Doohan continued to play Scotty in the film series and made appearances in Star Trek: The Next Generation. He became a beloved figure at Star Trek conventions, where he enthusiastically interacted with fans. Doohan also worked as a voice actor, lending his talents to various animated projects. James Doohan passed away in 2005, but his legacy as Scotty lives on, celebrated by fans around the world for his contributions to the Star Trek universe.

Nichelle Nichols as Nyota Uhura

Nichelle Nichols as Nyota Uhura, the Enterprise's communications officer, broke barriers and inspired generations. Her presence on the bridge as a Black woman in a position of authority was groundbreaking for its time. In Star Trek: The Motion Picture, Uhura's skills are crucial in deciphering the signals from V'ger. After Star Trek: The Motion Picture, Nichols continued to play Uhura in the film series and became a passionate advocate for diversity in STEM fields. She worked with NASA to recruit women and minorities into the space program, making a real-world impact that extended far beyond her role on Star Trek. Nichelle Nichols passed away in 2022, leaving behind a powerful legacy as an actress, activist, and inspiration to countless individuals.

George Takei as Hikaru Sulu

George Takei, as Hikaru Sulu, the helmsman of the Enterprise, brought a quiet strength and competence to the bridge. His portrayal of Sulu as a skilled pilot and trusted officer made him an important part of the crew. In Star Trek: The Motion Picture, Sulu navigates the Enterprise through the dangers of space. After Star Trek: The Motion Picture, Takei continued to play Sulu in the film series. Beyond Star Trek, Takei has become a prominent voice for LGBTQ+ rights and social justice. He's an active presence on social media, using his platform to advocate for equality and speak out against injustice. Takei has also had a successful career as an author, actor, and activist, demonstrating his commitment to making a positive impact on the world. His journey from the Enterprise bridge to a leading voice for social change is a testament to his character and his dedication to creating a more inclusive society.

Walter Koenig as Pavel Chekov

Walter Koenig's portrayal of Pavel Chekov, the young Russian navigator, added a touch of youthful enthusiasm to the bridge. His distinctive accent and eagerness to please made him a memorable member of the crew. In Star Trek: The Motion Picture, Chekov's expertise is vital in navigating the Enterprise. After Star Trek: The Motion Picture, Koenig continued to play Chekov in the film series and wrote for Star Trek: The Animated Series. Beyond Star Trek, Koenig has had a varied career as an actor and writer, appearing in numerous television shows and films. He's also a respected screenwriter, demonstrating his creative talents both in front of and behind the camera. Walter Koenig's contributions to the Star Trek universe and his work in the entertainment industry have solidified his place as a beloved figure among fans.

New Faces and Notable Guest Stars

Star Trek: The Motion Picture also introduced some new faces and included notable guest stars who added depth and intrigue to the story. These actors brought fresh perspectives and memorable performances to the film, enhancing the overall experience for viewers.

Persis Khambatta as Lieutenant Ilia

Persis Khambatta played Lieutenant Ilia, the Deltan navigator whose body is taken over by V'Ger. Her striking presence and unique character added an element of mystery to the film. Khambatta's portrayal of Ilia, both before and after her transformation, was captivating. Sadly, Persis Khambatta passed away in 1998 at a young age, but her performance in Star Trek: The Motion Picture remains a memorable part of the film's legacy.

Stephen Collins as Commander Willard Decker

Stephen Collins played Commander Willard Decker, who temporarily takes command of the Enterprise before Kirk's return. Decker's ambition and conflict with Kirk added dramatic tension to the story. Collins went on to have a successful career in television, most notably as the father in the series 7th Heaven. However, his career was later overshadowed by personal controversies. Despite the controversies, his role in Star Trek: The Motion Picture remains a significant part of his acting history.

The Legacy Continues

The cast of Star Trek: The Motion Picture left an indelible mark on science fiction and popular culture. Their portrayals of iconic characters continue to resonate with fans around the world. While some cast members have passed away, their legacy lives on through their work and the enduring appeal of Star Trek. The film not only reunited the original crew but also set the stage for future Star Trek adventures, ensuring that their stories would continue to be told for generations to come. The impact of these actors extends beyond their performances; they inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in science, technology, and the arts. Their contributions to the Star Trek universe have solidified their place in entertainment history, and their influence can still be seen in modern science fiction.

So, there you have it, guys! A little peek into what the cast of Star Trek: The Motion Picture has been up to. From conquering space to advocating for important causes, they've all led fascinating lives. Keep on Trekking!