Walter Koenig’s cause of death revealed days after 'Star Trek' actor died at 90

Walter Koenig's rep said in a statement on Oct 26 that he died 'of old age at home in North Hollywood last night surrounded by his daughter and niece'
Walter Koenig was best known for portraying Enterprise navigator Pavel Chekov in the 'Star Trek' franchise (Getty Images)
Walter Koenig was best known for portraying Enterprise navigator Pavel Chekov in the 'Star Trek' franchise (Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: The cause of death of ‘Star Trek’ legend Walter Koenig has now been revealed days after his passing.

Koenig, known for playing Pavel Chekov, was 90 when he breathed his last on October 25.

Walter Koenig died because of cardiopulmonary arrest

Now TMZ, citing the late star’s death certificate, reported that he died from cardiopulmonary arrest. The official document also mentioned chronic diastolic congestive heart failure as an underlying cause, along with acute renal failure described as a vital contributing factor to his death.

Walter Koenig attends Los Angeles premiere of 'Raging Midlife' at Laemmle Royal on March 16, 2025 in Los Angeles, California (Photo by Victoria Sirakova/Getty Images)

As per the certificate, Koenig was laid to rest on October 30 at Hollywood Forever Cemetery, where his 41-year-old son Andrew was cremated after his 2010 death.

Walter Koenig was at home with his family when he died

Koenig's death was announced by his agency via a social media post.

The Facebook statement announcing his death read, “Today we mourn the passing of Walter Koenig, whose talent, warmth, and unforgettable performances left a lasting mark on generations of fans around the world.”

It noted that the screenwriter was with his daughter and niece during his final moments.

The statement also stated that Koenig’s “legacy extends far beyond the screen. Through countless convention appearances and interactions with fans, he shared his kindness, wit, and appreciation with everyone fortunate enough to meet him. He understood what Star Trek meant to people and embraced the community that grew around it.”

“Thank you, Walter, for the memories, the inspiration, and for boldly going where few have gone before. Rest in peace,” it concluded.

William Shatner honors Walter Koenig

After the announcement, William Shatner, who played Captain James T. Kirk in the ‘Star Trek’ franchise, paid his heartfelt tribute to him.

The 95-year-old actor wrote on Instagram, “I am deeply saddened to learn of Walter Koenig’s passing.”

Praising Koenig for loving the Star Trek community, he noted, “At conventions, Walter was rarely content to remain behind a signing table. He preferred to be among the people who had kept Star Trek alive for so many decades.”

“That kind of genuine connection is rare, and it will be remembered by everyone who came into contact with him,” Shatner added.

George Takei remembers Walter Koenig as 'a thoughtful man'

Another "Star Trek' star mourned Koenig's death. George Takei, 89, shared, "My heart is heavy. Walter Koenig, our Ensign Pavel Chekov, passed away early today. Walter and I met on the bridge of the Enterprise in the 1960s, and we stayed friends for nearly six decades. When Brad and I married in 2008, Walter stood beside us as our best man."

"Walter was more than Chekov. He was a writer, a teacher, a thoughtful man, and a loyal friend. To the fans who loved him for so many years, thank you. He loved you too. Rest well, my dear friend. Keep navigating a steady course," he added.

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