Star Trek Online honours Leonard Nimoy with statue memorial

Star Trek Online

Cryptic Studios has unveiled a touching memorial to the late Leonard Nimoy in Star Trek Online. The statue can be found at the fountain around which players gathered last week to mark the passing of the beloved actor, who was best known for his portrayal of Spock.

(“Best known for his portrayal of Spock” is perhaps the most weakly redundant description of anyone ever. To many, Nimoy was Spock, and he remains a cherished sci-fi icon to all).

Writing in a blog on the Star Trek Online website, the game’s executive producer Stephen Ricossa outlined the sentiment behind the decision to honour the actor.

“Last Friday we lost someone dear to us,” he wrote. “All of us. Not just the people of the Star Trek community, but anyone who ever tried with varying success to make the Vulcan salute. Anyone who ever said “Live Long and Prosper,” whether or not they knew who brought that phrase into our cultural lexicon, and anyone who can understand the impact a positive public figure can have on the world.”

The statue’s fountain location was chosen based on where the community of grieving players had decided to congregate to pay their respects. The memorial bears the inscription “Live Long and Prosper”, as well as the names of other Star Trek alumni who have died: Majel Barrett, James Doohan, DeForest Kelley and series creator, Gene Roddenberry.

Black flags will be hung around Earth Spacedock, Qo’noS and New Romulus.

“In this small way,” adds Ricossa, “we hope to honor the memory and contribution of those who helped shape Star Trek into the cultural touchstone it is today.”