Kenneth Mitchell has died at the age of 49, his family has confirmed.
The actor was best know for his roles a Klingons Kol, Kol Sha and Tenavik, as well as Aurellio on Star Trek: Discovery.
He voiced characters on Star Trek: Lower Decks and starred in Marvel productions including Captain Marvel.
His family shared a heartbreaking statement on Instagram to confirm the news: “For five and a half years Ken faced a series of awful challenges from ALS.
“And in truest Ken fashion, he managed to rise above each one with grave and commitment to living a full and joyous life in each moment.
“To those close to him he was known as a hope seeker, daydreamer, dream believer, soccer player, beach walker bear hugger, landscaper designer, garden grower, canoe paddler, happy camper, nature explorer, car lover, infections laugher, gift giver…
“Note sender, movie goer, art maker, music listener, sports connoisseur, detailed particular, Leafs supporter, world traveler, uncle joker, younger brother, Susan's partner, and more than anything else, a proud father."
The powerful message ended by saying it would help people "ascend, fall and fail" with him, before the last emotional note: "Take my hand, my brand, my paddle, my drum and dance with me... forever." (sic)
Tributes came flooding in after the update, as one social media user commented: “Rest in peace you kind and beautiful soul.
“Thank you for all your insights, teachings, and inspirations. Thank you for reminding me to LIVE and to soak in every moment. Thank you for the legacy you leave behind.”
“Rest in peace, Ken. Was just thinking of you,” another added before a third noted: “Kenneth was one of a kind, and will be greatly missed. Our deepest condolences to his family and all who loved him.”
Kenneth was diagnosed with ASL in 2018 and started using a wheelchair in 2019
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A fourth quipped: “Rest in peace you wonderful man and deepest condolences to your family for this great loss.”
“A ray of sunshine. Goodbye beautiful man. You are an inspiration to all of us. We love you Ken,” another sadded fan said. (sic)
Mitchell was first diagnosed with ALS in 2018 and began using a wheelchair in 2019, where he explained that showrunners began creating roles specifically for him.
He explained: “They created a part for me: an FBI agent and I got to be in this chair. It was just really liberating and freeing to not have to hide what was happening to me.
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Kenneth died at the age of 49
GETTY
“It was at that point forward, I was like, ‘Yeah, I’m ready for this. I think this is the direction I should continue to take’.
“I can’t hide it anymore. I thought instead of shielding myself away in my home, which, if that’s your choice that’s fine, too.
“I wouldn’t make any judgment on anyone. I don’t think anyone would on me. But, I just feel like it’s time that I get out there and be a voice.”
