How Leonard Nimoy Created an Alien Who Embodied the Best of Humanity

Mr. Spock proved logic, loyalty and optimism could coexist

One story often told by Leonard Nimoy, who died today at age 83, was that quite a few fans of his Star Trek character, Mr. Spock, assumed Nimoy himself was a real scientist.

Maybe it was the gravity he brought to what was, occasionally, a silly show. Or maybe it was simply that television was so young when the show premiered in 1966, viewers weren't as skeptical as they are today. 

Nimoy, ever courteous, would patiently listen to experts in every field (except, apparently, TV) explain their theories to him in technical terms and then, very seriously, nod and tell each of them, "Well, it certainly looks like you're headed in the right direction."

The actor died in his home in Bel Air from end-stage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, according to his family.

AW+

WORK SMARTER - LEARN, GROW AND BE INSPIRED.

Subscribe today!

To Read the Full Story Become an Adweek+ Subscriber

View Subscription Options

Already a member? Sign in