The “terrible” cause of death of “Star Trek” and “Captain Marvel” actor Mitchell has been named

He didn’t live to be 50

Kenneth Mitchell, the Star Trek and Captain Marvel actor, has died at the age of 49. The Canadian entertainer, who played several Star Trek characters, has died after complications from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, according to a statement on social media.

Canadian actor Kenneth Mitchell, best known for his roles in Star Trek: Discovery and the Marvel film Captain Marvel, has died after complications from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS.

According to The Guardian, Kenneth Mitchell, who was 49 years old, died on Saturday, according to a statement published on his verified social media account.

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kenneth Alexander Mitchell, a beloved father, husband, brother, uncle, son and dear friend to many,” his family said in a statement.

“For five and a half years, Ken faced a series of terrible problems associated with ALS. And in true Ken fashion, he managed to rise above each of them with grace and a desire to live a full and joyful life in every moment,” the family statement added.

“He lived by the principles that every day is a gift and that we never walk alone. His life is a shining example of how fulfilling a person can be when he lives with love, compassion, humor, inclusion and community,” it continued.

In a statement on the official Star Trek website, the franchise also mourned the death of the actor, who played multiple roles in Star Trek: Discovery, including Klingons Kol, Kol-Sha and Tenavik, as well as Aurelio.

“The entire Star Trek family sends its condolences to Mitchell’s family, friends, loved ones and fans around the world,” it added.

In addition to his roles in Star Trek, Mitchell also starred in the Marvel film Captain Marvel, as well as the post-apocalyptic television series Jericho and other projects, writes The Guardian.

Mitchell is survived by his wife, Susan May Pratt, and their two children, and he asked that any gifts be used for ALS research or to support his children, he said in a statement on social media.

As The Guardian explains, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord and is diagnosed in an average of 5,000 people each year. Symptoms include difficulty walking, slurred speech, and muscle weakness that ultimately affects chewing, swallowing, speaking, and breathing.