US actor Leonard Nimoy, who played enigmatic half-human, half-Vulcan Mr Spock in Star Trek, has died at the age of 83 at his home in Bel Air, California today.
Nimoy was best known as Spock but he also directed movies, wrote poetry, was an accomplished photographer, and recorded music.
His wife, Susan Bay Nimoy, confirmed the death to the New York Times.
Nimoy had been suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and had been taken to UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles on Thursday 19 February and had been in hospital several times over the last few months.
Nimoy, who appeared in Star Trek from 1966-1969, was loved by fans of the cult TV series for his portrayal of the pointy-eared science officer Mr Spock.
The actor left a poignant last message for fans on his Twitter account last Sunday, including a reference to his famous sign-off, "Live Long And Prosper".
Last year, Nimoy revealed he was suffering from chronic lung disease, despite stopping smoking more than 30 years ago.
Just a month ago he tweeted, `I quit smoking 30 yrs ago. Not soon enough. I have COPD. Grandpa says, quit now!! LLAP
Nimoy stopped attending Star Trek conventions four years ago but he did make a cameo as Spock in JJ Abrams' 2013 film Star Trek Into Darkness.
He also made guest appearances in the sci-fic series Fringe, which ran until 2012 and recently appeared on The Big Bang Theory as the voice of Spock.
A life is like a garden. Perfect moments can be had, but not preserved, except in memory. LLAP
— Leonard Nimoy (@TheRealNimoy) February 23, 2015
I will be sharing my poetry. Today's is, "You and I have Learned," which is in my book, These Words Are for You. LLAP pic.twitter.com/CsHAtmtDnz
— Leonard Nimoy (@TheRealNimoy) February 22, 2015
Leonard Nimoy with Donald Sutherland and Brooke Adams, pictured for Invasion of The Bodysnatchers in 1978
Nimoy with wife Susan
With William Shatner
Nimoy recently made an appearance on The Big Bang Theory as the voice of Spock.
