René Auberjonois, known for his role in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, has passed away. He was 79. Sadly, Auberjonois joins the list of Star Trek actors that have died in recent years.
According to Auberjonois’ son, Rèmy, the beloved actor passed away on Sunday. “I can confirm that he died peacefully at home in LA following a battle with metastatic lung cancer,” Rèmy said in a statement. “He was an incredibly accomplished and admired actor, whose roles in iconic theatrical productions, TV series, films, video games and animated series brought laughter and pathos to many many people.”
Rèmy also called his father a “proud progressive and consummate professional and craftsman” as well as a “dedicated father and grandfather” with a “fantastic sense of humor.”
Auberjonois played the Changeling named Odo in the entire seven-season run of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. His shape-shifting character was the security chief of the show’s titular space station, who also harbored secret feelings for his co-worker, Kira (Nana Visitor). Aside from being one of the main cast members of the show, Odo had also directed eight episodes of the series.
Soon after the news of his death broke, several celebrities from the Star Trek franchise took to Twiiter to remember and honor Auberjonois.
I have just heard about the death of my friend and fellow actor @reneauberjonois. To sum up his life in a tweet is nearly impossible. To Judith, Tessa & Remy I send you my love & strength. I will keep you in my thoughts and remember a wonderful friendship with René.
— William Shatner (@WilliamShatner) December 8, 2019
It is with great heartache and loss I share with you the passing of dear,dear Rene Auberjonois.His last message to me was entitled "Don't forget…" I know that I,Kitty,and all that knew him will never forget.The world seems noticeably emptier now. I loved him.
— Armin Shimerman (@ShimermanArmin) December 8, 2019
Rene Auberjonois a true gentleman & passionate artist passed onto the next understanding & we will miss him so much. I was honored to have worked with him on Windows On The World, his second to last film. He delivered an amazing rendition of NY NY – a brilliant artist #sswa #RIP pic.twitter.com/KR5PKylNZe
— . (@edwardjolmos) December 8, 2019
This is a terrible loss. Star Trek fans knew him as Odo from Deep Space Nine. We knew him as René. He was a wonderful, caring, and intelligent man. He shall be missed. When I look out to the stars, I shall think of you, friend. https://t.co/IE2gtivRcg
— George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) December 8, 2019
So, so sad.
RIP, Rene. @reneauberjonois pic.twitter.com/kJIZr38akg— Jeri Ryan (@JeriLRyan) December 9, 2019
AS GREAT A SHAPESHIFTER AS AN ACTOR AS ODO HIMSELF, RENE AUBERJONOIS HAS REJOINED THE GREAT LINK, AND I WILL FOREVER BE GRATEFUL FOR EVERYTHING HE HAS GIVEN US pic.twitter.com/i73d1pYgUB
— Bryan Fuller (@BryanFuller) December 9, 2019
I am very sad to hear of the passing of René Auberjonois. His work on Deep Space Nine was especially inspiring to me as I approached being in a Star Trek show. And I was delighted to get to spend time with him at STLV, where I learned he was a totally delightful human being. RIP
— Anthony Rapp SAG-AFTRA National Board Member (@albinokid) December 9, 2019
Thank you so much Alex. We must find each other again. We’ve lost 2 friends today. It’s a tough day. My heart goes out to their lovely wives @Marina_Sirtis and Judith @reneauberjonois wife, and the families that loved them so much behind. https://t.co/DpwXcVVFiV
— Terry Farrell (@4TerryFarrell) December 9, 2019
Prior to starring in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Auberjonois starred as Clayton Endicott III, the hardworking yet pompous governor’s chief of staff in the sitcom Benson. This role earned him an Emmy nomination for outstanding supporting actor in a comedy series in 1984, before getting another Emmy nod for outstanding guest actor in a drama series in 2001 for his role as Judge Mantz in the legal drama The Practice.
Auberjonois other acting credits include films Batman Forever and The Little Mermaid, TV shows Madam Secretary and Saving Grace, as well as animated series The Legend of Tarzan and Avatar: The Last Airbender.
Aside from his son Rèmy, Auberjonois is also survived by his wife Judith Auberjonois, his sisters Marie-Laure Degener and Anne Auberjonois, his daughter Tessa Auberjonois, his son-in-law Adrian Latourelle, his daughter-in-law Kate Nowlin, and his three grandchildren.