‘Spock’s fiancée’ actress Arlene Martel passes away

Sad news rocked the world of Hollywood and Star Trek, as The Hollywood Reporter posted news that American actress and acting coach Arlene Martel passed way at the age of 78 on August 12. 

 

Fans of Trek know her as T’Pring, the beautiful Vulcan bride-to-be of Spock, the iconic half-human/half-vulcan science officer of the U.S.S Enterprise who was famously and originally portrayed by the legendary Leonard Nimoy during The Original Series.

 

Martel appeared as T’Pring in the episode “Amok Time,” which aired on September 15, 1967—the first episode of the second season of Star Trek, which helped to define science fiction adventures in the world of popular culture. 

 

In one of the only episodes to depict the planet Vulcan and its culture, Spock is compelled to go back to his home planet to undergo the mating ritual of “pon farr”, where he meets his fiancée and her lover Stonn. 

 

After finding out T’Pring harbors no feelings for him and being put to a “fight to the death” match with his commander Captain James T. Kirk, Spock is only able to overcome his urges and gives up his claim to his cold bride by seemingly killing his friend. This turns out to be a ruse planned by the Captain and Dr. McCoy however, to help Spock out of his predicament.

 

While her part in Star Trek may be her most recognizable role in her career, Arlene Martel was also known for her roles in shows like The Outer Limits, Battlestar Gallactica, The Twilight Zone, and episodes of Hogan’s Heroes.

She also received top billing for a bit part in the 1978 movie Zoltan, Hound of Dracula, and even made guest appearances in other famous shows such as Mission: Impossible, The Man from U.N.C.L.E., and The Untouchables.

 

In his official Twitter page, Nimoy acknowledged and bid farewell to his fellow Star Trek alum by writing: 

Saying goodbye to T'Pring, Arlene Martel. A lovely talent.

— Leonard Nimoy (@TheRealNimoy) August 13, 2014

 — TJD, GMA News