Leonard Nimoy: William Shatner, Patrick Stewart and more remember 'dear friend'

Following the news of Leonard Nimoy’s death on Friday, Hollywood quickly reacted to say goodbye to the actor, best known for his role as Spock in the Star Trek franchise. Nimoy was 83, with a career that spanned six decades and allowed him to work with some of Hollywood’s biggest names.

William Shatner

I loved him like a brother. We will all miss his humor, his talent, and his capacity to love.

Zachary Quinto

My heart is broken. I love you profoundly my dear friend. And I will miss you everyday. May flights of angels sing thee to they rest.

Nichelle Nichols

I am deeply saddened by the death of my dear friend Leonard Nimoy. But, I also want to celebrate his extraordinary life. He was a true force of strength and his character was that of a champion. Leonard’s integrity and passion as an actor and devotion to his craft helped transport Star Trek into television history. His vision and heart are bigger than the universe. I will miss him very much and send heartfelt wishes to his family.

Patrick Stewart

It is with sadness that I heard this morning of the death of friend and colleague Leonard Nimoy. I was lucky to spend many happy hours with Leonard socially and in front of the camera. The caliber and serious commitment of his work on Star Trek was one of the things all of us on Star Trek: The Next Generation sought to match and be inspired by. His work will not be forgotten.

Al Jean, Simpsons executive producer

One of the most wonderful things about working at the Simpsons is meeting your childhood idols and finding out they are really cool. With Stan Lee and the Beatles, Leonard Nimoy is at the top of my list.

President Barack Obama

Long before being nerdy was cool, there was Leonard Nimoy. Leonard was a lifelong lover of the arts and humanities, a supporter of the sciences, generous with his talent and his time. And of course, Leonard was Spock. Cool, logical, big-eared and level-headed, the center of Star Trek‘s optimistic, inclusive vision of humanity’s future.

I loved Spock.

In 2007, I had the chance to meet Leonard in person. It was only logical to greet him with the Vulcan salute, the universal sign for “Live long and prosper.” And after 83 years on this planet—and on his visits to many others—it’s clear Leonard Nimoy did just that. Michelle and I join his family, friends, and countless fans who miss him so dearly today.

Tom Selleck

Leonard was a good friend and a fine director. His contribution to Three Men and a Baby could never be overstated.

Steve Guttenberg

Leonard Nimoy was smart, warm and had a personality that made everyone feel comfortable. He was a talented actor, director, poet and photographer. But his most enduring quality was his kindness and his desire to make you the most you could be. Like everyone who knew or knew of him, I will miss him.