Walter Koenig

Koenig rose to prominence for his role as Ensign Pavel Chekov in Star Trek (1967–1969), going on to reprise the character in all six original-cast Star Trek films. In the 1990s, he added a second iconic character to his legacy, earning worldwide recognition as the villainous “Bester” on Babylon 5 — voted both “the man we most love to hate” and “the best villain in a series” in fan polls.

Beyond acting, Koenig has written for several television series, including Land of the Lost, Family, and The Powers of Matthew Star, and has authored books including an autobiography and a science fiction novel. He has also taught acting and directing at UCLA and several other institutions.

In 2012, Koenig was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, becoming the final member of the original Star Trek television cast to receive the distinction.