9 Iconic Characters from Star Trek: The Original Series

1. Captain James T. Kirk

Captain of the USS Enterprise, William Shatner's portrayal of Captain James T. Kirk was a swashbuckling charmer, known for his dynamic bravado and enduring friendship with Spock.

william-shatner-captain-kirk-the-original-series

2. Mr. Spock

As the Science Officer and First Officer of the USS Enterprise, Leonard Nimoy's portrayal of Mr. Spock, a product of a human mother and Vulcan father, continues to have a profound cultural impact.

Star Trek TOS Spock Leonard Nimoy

3. Dr. Leonard 'Bones' McCoy

The ship's brilliant physician and a trusted confidant of Captain Kirk, Dr. Leonard 'Bones' McCoy was a passionate country doctor who deeply respected his colleagues.

Star Trek Dr Bones McCoy

4. Montgomery 'Scotty' Scott

Known as Scotty, James Doohan's portrayal of Chief Engineer Montgomery Scott was characterized by his ability to perform technological miracles and his righteous anger.

James Doohan as Scotty in Star Trek

5. Hikaru Sulu

George Takei's portrayal of Lieutenant Hikaru Sulu, the USS Enterprise's helmsman, showcased bravery and a reserved, genial nature, making him an invaluable member of the crew.

Star Trek Sulu George Takei

6. Nyota Uhura

Nichelle Nichols' portrayal of Lieutenant Nyota Uhura, the Communications Officer, broke new ground with her revolutionary presence as one of the few female characters and the only Black character in a position of authority.

Nyota Uhura (Nichelle Nichols) leans on her hands and smiles off-screen in Star Trek: The Original Series.

7. Pavel Chekov

Walter Koenig's portrayal of Ensign Pavel Chekov brought an innocent, youthful energy to the show, with a truly unforgettable Russian accent, making him a character who was easy to like.

Star Trek: The Original Series, Season 2, Episode 2, "Who Mourns For Adonias?". Walter Koenig as Ensign Pavel Chekov.

8. Nurse Christine Chapel

Majel Barrett-Roddenberry's portrayal of Nurse Christine Chapel, Dr. McCoy's top nurse aboard the USS Enterprise, evolved over time, becoming a much-needed reworking for the Paramount+ series Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.

Christine Chapel, Star Trek

9. Sarek

Mark Lenard's portrayal of Sarek, the Vulcan Ambassador and Spock's father, introduced a deeply complicated relationship with Spock, adding a layer of emotional depth to the series.

Sarek speaks to Amanda in Star Trek