Actor Anton Yelchin was confirmed to have died today in what authorities are describing as a “freak accident.” He was 27 years old.
Best known for his portrayal as Chekov in the rebooted Star Trek franchise, including the upcoming Star Trek Beyond, the actor was discovered pinned between his car and a brick mailbox. According to reports, the actor was found by a friend who was worried after the actor failed to show up to a gathering. The car was reportedly running and in neutral while sitting on a steep incline, and foul play is not suspected.
Yelchin was relatively prolific for his age; appearing as a guest star in TV shows from a young age, the actor had amassed a résumé of 60 plus roles, including Alpha Dogs, Terminator: Salvation, and Green Room, which was released earlier this year.
Still, he’ll most likely best be remembered as Chekov, a role originated by Walter Koenig, in the J.J. Abrams produced Star Trek reboot. The break out role in 2009’s Star Trek catapulted him to the brink of stardom and led to greater and greater roles, laying the foundation for what could’ve been a remarkable career.
His is a tragic loss that is sending shockwaves through the acting community and among fans. Star Trek franchise co-star Karl Urban Tweeted,
I can’t believe it , I m fckn hurting bad !
— Karl Urban (@KarlUrban) June 19, 2016
John Cho, who played Sulu in the Trek reboot added,
I loved Anton Yelchin so much. He was a true artist – curious, beautiful, courageous. He was a great pal and a great son. I’m in ruins.
— John Cho (@JohnTheCho) June 19, 2016
His death adds to the list of tragic losses that have beset this year. Given his youth, Yelchin’s loss adds a particular sting as his career had the promise of great things ahead. Thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, and loved ones on this sad day.
