Leonard Nimoy passed away in February 2015 at his home in Los Angeles. He was 83 and had suffered a long battle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Nimoy is most well known for his role as Spock in various incarnations of the Star Trek universe including Star Trek, Star Trek: The Next Generation, and Star Trek: The Animated Series. He starred or had a supporting role in 8 of the 12 currently released Star Trek movies and had roles in many Star Trek-related video games, documentaries, and fan-funded films. All of this doesn’t include his many other roles in TV classics like the Twilight Zone and newer films like Transformers: Dark of the Moon.
I grew up watching Star Trek reruns on TV and watched the movies on repeat through elementary, middle, and high school. Spock was an iconic character from the future brought to life in only the way Leonard Nimoy could have done. I had wanted to meet him in person but sadly was never afforded the chance. The way I view the world was largely shaped by this practical and logical (sometimes even playful) character in a fictitious science fiction universe. I’m sad to see him gone.
His final words shared on Twitter were beautiful:
A life is like a garden. Perfect moments can be had, but not preserved, except in memory. LLAP
— Leonard Nimoy (@TheRealNimoy) February 23, 2015
The only way I can see dealing with his passing, as a fan, is to watch some of my favorite Star Trek episodes starring Spock as played by Leonard Nimoy. I’ve spent so much time watching this character on the screen and reading about him in the comics that I feel as if he was my friend. It’s crazy how that works right? Anyways, I’m super happy that Paramount+ has Star Trek, in its many forms, so I can watch Spock on screen tonight. You can find my five favorite Spock episodes listed below and watch along with me if you want. Here they are in order:
1.) Star Trek
“The Enterprise Incident”
Season 3, Episode 2
On Kirk’s orders, the Enterprise deliberately crosses the Neutral Zone into Romulan space and is promptly surrounded by Romulan warships. Spock, of course, is key to saving the day thanks to his cool head and calm demeanor. The 1960s-style sci-fi plot twist is also pretty great.
2.) Star Trek
“Amok Time”
Season 2, Episode 1
In the throes of his Pon Farr mating period, Spock must return to Vulcan to meet his intended future wife, betrothed from childhood. The vulnerability Spock shows to Kirk in this episode is unique and shows us a side of the Vulcan we don’t see again. If you haven’t seen it, the episode is worth a watch. It is one of the most iconic of the series.
3.) Star Trek
“The Immunity Syndrome”
Season 2, Episode 18
The Enterprise encounters a gigantic, energy-draining space organism that threatens the galaxy. Spock, using logic as his guide, risks his life to save the lives of those on the Enterprise. The needs of the many, after all, outweigh the needs of the few.
4.) Star Trek
“The Naked Time”
Season 1, Episode 5
A virus causes the Enterprise crew to lose all self-control, as Sulu threatens the crew with a sword, Spock cries and Bones looks for an antidote. Leonard Nimoy really shines in this episode. He goes from one emotional state to the next in a truly professional style and again reveals a unique view of Spock not seen before in this early part of the series.
5.) Star Trek: The Next Generation
“Unification” Parts 1 & 2
Season 5, Episodes 7 & 8
Capt. Picard and Data follow Spock on a dangerous mission into Romulan space. It is great to see the meeting of the new crew of the Enterprise working with a member of the original crew. This episode was also taped at the same time as part of Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country and references Spock’s role in that movie.
Do you consider yourself a fan of Leonard Nimoy’s work as Spock? What was one of your favorite things about either the character or actor? Let me know in the comments or on social. Until next time, Live Long and Prosper.
August 2022 Update: This has been updated to note that Star Trek is now on Paramount+. It was previously on Netflix at the time this article was originally published.