Nichelle Nichols

Nichelle Nichols was an American actress, singer, and dancer best known for her portrayal of Nyota Uhura in Star Trek and its film sequels. Nichols' portrayal of Uhura was groundbreaking for African American actresses on American television. From 1977 until 2015, Nichols volunteered her time to promote NASA's programs and recruit diverse astronauts, including some of the first female and ethnic minority astronauts. Nichols was born in Robbins, Illinois, a Chicago suburb. She trained in dance, and began her career as a dancer, singer, and model in Chicago. She went into stage acting, and had a television and film career.

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“To Boldy Go”: The Nichelle Nichols Foundation Continues Actress’ Legacy of Inspiration

The remains of 'Star Trek' actress Nichelle Nichols are heading to space

Ashes of Nichelle Nichols, Lieutenant Uhura From “Star Trek,” to Be Launched Into Deep Space

Stark Trek Actress Nichelle Nichols to grace one final voyage into the cosmos

Nichelle Nichols of 'Star Trek' to boldly go on unique memorial spaceflight in 2022

Godspeed, Uhura: A Bit of Star Trek’s Nichelle Nichols Will Go to Space

Nichelle Nichols, a 'Star Trek' icon, trailblazer and space advocate, dies at 89

NASA celebrates the life and career of 'Star Trek' star Nichelle Nichols

'Star Trek' legend Nichelle Nichols caught in ongoing conservatorship battle: report

New documentary explores 'Star Trek,' Nichelle Nichols and NASA's 1970s astronaut search

How "Star Trek" actress Nichelle Nichols changed NASA. "Star Trek" actress Nichelle Nichols played a key role in NASA's effort to recruit both people of color and the first female astronauts, more than four decades ago.