Most Legendary Sci-Fi Stars Who Have Passed Away

From pioneering television icons to big-screen trailblazers, these performers helped define the look, sound, and scope of science fiction. Their roles shaped entire franchises, broke real-world barriers, and inspired generations of fans and future creators. Here’s a remembrance of standout sci-fi stars we’ve lost—and the lasting work that keeps their legacies very much alive.

Leonard Nimoy

Leonard Nimoy became an international icon as Spock in ‘Star Trek’, a role he portrayed across multiple series entries and films. He helped establish the franchise’s core themes of logic, curiosity, and cultural exchange, and even directed fan-favorite installments. Nimoy authored books, recorded spoken-word albums, and pursued photography, reflecting a wide creative range. He died in 2015, leaving behind a body of work that continues to anchor the franchise’s ethos.

Carrie Fisher

Carrie Fisher’s portrayal of Princess Leia Organa in ‘Star Wars’ redefined the image of a sci-fi hero. Beyond acting, she was an acclaimed script doctor, contributing uncredited rewrites to major studio films. Fisher wrote bestselling memoirs and spoke openly about mental health and creativity. She died in 2016, and her performances remain central to the saga’s enduring appeal.

Nichelle Nichols

Nichelle Nichols played Lieutenant Nyota Uhura on ‘Star Trek’, becoming one of television’s earliest Black female leads in a non-stereotyped role. Her work influenced public conversations about representation in media and inspired future STEM leaders. Nichols collaborated with NASA on recruitment efforts that encouraged women and minorities to apply. She died in 2022, remembered as an artist and a bridge between science fiction and real-world space exploration.

Peter Mayhew

Peter Mayhew brought Chewbacca to life in ‘Star Wars’, using physical performance to convey humor, loyalty, and heart. Standing over seven feet tall, he turned a towering presence into a gentle, expressive character audiences embraced. Mayhew engaged with fans worldwide and supported charitable causes through his foundation. He died in 2019, and his interpretation of the Wookiee co-pilot remains definitive.

David Prowse

David Prowse performed the imposing physical role of Darth Vader in ‘Star Wars’, shaping the character’s on-screen menace and silhouette. A former bodybuilder and champion weightlifter, he translated athletic discipline into controlled, memorable movement. Prowse also appeared in British genre productions and public safety campaigns. He died in 2020, with his contribution integral to one of cinema’s most recognizable figures.

Rutger Hauer

Rutger Hauer delivered a landmark performance as Roy Batty in ‘Blade Runner’, culminating in one of science fiction’s most quoted monologues. His career spanned cult and mainstream projects, including ‘The Hitcher’ and ‘Blind Fury’. Hauer supported environmental and HIV/AIDS causes through philanthropic work. He died in 2019, and his blend of intensity and nuance set a benchmark for complex sci-fi characters.

John Hurt

John Hurt’s genre impact stretched from ‘Alien’ to ‘1984’ and a celebrated turn as the War Doctor in ‘Doctor Who’. Known for transforming physically and vocally for roles, he brought gravitas to dystopian and space-horror stories alike. Hurt’s career included stage, independent cinema, and major franchises. He died in 2017, widely regarded as one of the most versatile actors to cross sci-fi and literary adaptations.

Ian Holm

Ian Holm played the quietly menacing Ash in ‘Alien’ and later appeared in numerous genre and historical dramas. Trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, he earned acclaim on stage before moving into film and television. Holm’s precise, economical acting style made complex characters feel grounded. He died in 2020, his work remaining a touchstone for restrained, character-driven sci-fi performances.

Anton Yelchin

Anton Yelchin portrayed Pavel Chekov in the revived ‘Star Trek’ films, bringing youthful energy and warmth to the crew. He also explored darker genre roles in projects like ‘Green Room’ and ‘Terminator Salvation’. Yelchin pursued photography and music alongside acting. He died in 2016, and the breadth of his early work continues to earn admiration.

René Auberjonois

René Auberjonois played Odo on ‘Star Trek: Deep Space Nine’, exploring identity, justice, and belonging through a shape-shifting outsider. He was a prolific voice actor across animation and games, with a long résumé in theater. Auberjonois directed episodes for television and mentored younger performers. He died in 2019, with Odo frequently cited as one of the franchise’s most layered characters.

DeForest Kelley

DeForest Kelley’s Dr. Leonard “Bones” McCoy in ‘Star Trek’ completed the classic triad of doctor, captain, and science officer. His background in Westerns informed a plain-spoken style that contrasted neatly with futuristic settings. Kelley’s steady presence helped establish the franchise’s humanistic tone. He died in 1999, and his character remains emblematic of compassion within science fiction.

Dean Stockwell

Dean Stockwell co-led ‘Quantum Leap’ as Al Calavicci, guiding time-tossed missions with wit and heart. He later appeared in ‘Battlestar Galactica’, adding political intrigue and ambiguity to the reimagined series. Stockwell’s career began in childhood and spanned experimental cinema, mainstream hits, and television. He died in 2021, recognized for shaping genre storytelling across decades.

Share your favorite performances and memories of these legends in the comments—whose work meant the most to you?