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Leonard Simon Nimoy 1931 - 2015

Leonard Simon Nimoy of New York, New York United States was born on March 26, 1931 in Boston, Suffolk County, MA to Dora (Spinner) Nimoy and Max Mordko Nimoy. Leonard Nimoy had a brother Melvin Alan Nimoy. He married Sandra (Zober) Nimoy on February 21, 1954 in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California and they later divorced in 1987 in Los Angeles. They had children Julie Ellen Nimoy and Adam Brett Nimoy. He also married Susan Linda Nimoy on January 1, 1989 in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, and they were married until death separated them on February 27, 2015 in Bel Air. Leonard Nimoy died at age 83 years old on February 27, 2015 in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, and was buried on March 1, 2015 at Hillside Memorial Park W Centinela Ave, in Los Angeles.

Leonard Simon Nimoy
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New York, New York United States
Last residence
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March 26, 1931
Boston, Suffolk County, Massachusetts, United States
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February 27, 2015
Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California, United States
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Updated: August 14, 2023
Biography ID: 1216059 What's this
Leonard Simon Nimoy Leonard Nimoy (1931 - 2015)
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Leonard Simon Nimoy's History: 1931 - 2015

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  • Introduction

    Leonard Simon Nimoy (1931-2015), a multifaceted creative force, left an indelible mark on the realms of acting, directing, photography, and literature. Best known for his iconic portrayal of Mr. Spock in the Star Trek franchise, Nimoy's artistic journey was a fusion of captivating performances, artistic exploration, and a profound influence that transcended generations.
  • 03/26
    1931

    Birthday

    March 26, 1931
    Birthdate
    Boston, Suffolk County, Massachusetts United States
    Birthplace
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  • Ethnicity & Family History

    Leonard Simon Nimoy was born to a family of Ukrainian Jewish heritage on March 26, 1931, in Boston, Massachusetts. His parents, Max and Dora Nimoy, were immigrants who had fled persecution in their homeland. Growing up in a close-knit Jewish community, Nimoy's childhood was infused with cultural and religious traditions that would later influence his identity and creative pursuits. Nimoy's family history and ethnic background played a significant role in shaping his perspective on the world. The experiences of his parents and their journey to the United States likely informed his sense of empathy and his commitment to social justice causes. Throughout his life, Nimoy remained deeply connected to his Jewish roots, even incorporating elements of his heritage into his artistic work.

  • Nationality & Locations

    Born in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1931, he grew up in a culturally vibrant city that laid the foundation for his early interests in acting and the arts. His pursuit of education led him to the West Coast, where he attended the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), to study acting. This move marked a pivotal moment as he began to immerse himself in the world of performance and creative expression. Nimoy's acting career eventually drew him back to the East Coast, particularly New York City, which served as a hub for theater and television production. His breakthrough role as Mr. Spock in the original Star Trek series solidified his status as an international icon and became synonymous with his name.

  • Early Life & Education

    Leonard Simon Nimoy's educational path was marked by a blend of formal learning and hands-on experiences that laid the groundwork for his multifaceted artistic career. Growing up in Boston, he attended local schools, where his early fascination with acting began to take shape. After completing his high school education, Nimoy pursued his passion for acting by enrolling at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). It was here that he further honed his craft and delved into the world of theater, gaining essential skills and insights that would prove invaluable in his future endeavors. Nimoy's educational journey extended beyond traditional classrooms as he immersed himself in the vibrant cultural scene of New York City. His time in the city afforded him opportunities to participate in theater productions and connect with like-minded artists, contributing to his growth as a performer. As his career continued to evolve, Nimoy's thirst for knowledge led him to explore other artistic avenues. He delved into photography, refining his skills and creating a unique visual language that complemented his acting prowess.

  • Religious Beliefs

    Leonard Simon Nimoy's religious identity was complex and evolving, reflecting a journey of personal exploration and cultural heritage. Born into a Ukrainian Jewish family in Boston, his upbringing was steeped in Jewish traditions and customs. While he retained a deep connection to his Jewish roots throughout his life, Nimoy's spiritual beliefs extended beyond formal religious affiliations. His most iconic contribution to his heritage was the creation of the Vulcan salute, a hand gesture derived from a Jewish blessing he observed in synagogue. This gesture became synonymous with his character, Mr. Spock, and symbolized his fusion of cultural influences. Nimoy's exploration of spirituality encompassed a wide spectrum, and he often described himself as a humanist. He expressed a profound appreciation for the human experience and a belief in the inherent goodness and potential of individuals. In his later years, Nimoy produced a photographic series titled "Shekhina," a term from Jewish mysticism representing the feminine aspect of the divine. This project exemplified his ongoing exploration of spirituality and artistic expression within the context of his cultural heritage.

  • Military Service

    Leonard Simon Nimoy's military service was a significant chapter in his life, shaped by his sense of duty and a desire to contribute during a crucial period. In 1953, he enlisted in the United States Army Reserve, where he served for 18 months as a sergeant in the Special Services Division. His role involved organizing and performing in military shows, highlighting his early exposure to performance and entertainment. Nimoy's military service also led him to Fort McPherson in Georgia, where he directed and starred in a theatrical production of "Romeo and Juliet." This experience further solidified his passion for acting and provided a glimpse into his future artistic pursuits. Although his military service was relatively short, it laid the foundation for Nimoy's later creative endeavors. The skills he acquired in organizing and performing in military shows and the exposure to theater during his time in the Army Reserve became integral to his journey as an actor, director, and artist.

  • Professional Career

    Leonard Simon Nimoy's career was a tapestry of creative pursuits, spanning acting, directing, writing, photography, and more. Rising to prominence as Mr. Spock in the iconic Star Trek franchise, Nimoy's portrayal of the logical and enigmatic Vulcan endeared him to audiences worldwide, becoming a cultural touchstone. Beyond his iconic role, Nimoy's artistic ambitions led him to explore various mediums. He directed several films, including "Star Trek III: The Search for Spock" (1984), showcasing his storytelling prowess. Nimoy also ventured into literature, penning autobiographies, poetry, and even science fiction novels. His photography revealed a new dimension of his artistic expression, with projects like "Shekhina" exploring spirituality and the human experience. Nimoy's creative curiosity extended to music, where he released albums that combined spoken word and melodies.

  • Personal Life & Family

    Leonard Simon Nimoy's personal life was a mosaic of passions, relationships, and self-discovery that mirrored his multifaceted career. Born on March 26, 1931, in Boston, Massachusetts, he grew up in a tight-knit Ukrainian Jewish family that instilled a sense of cultural pride and tradition. Nimoy's personal life was marked by his deep connection to his family, especially his children, Julie and Adam. He navigated the complexities of marriage and fatherhood while pursuing his artistic endeavors, including his iconic role as Mr. Spock. His marriage to Sandra Zober in 1954 ended in divorce, but he found lasting love with Susan Bay, whom he married in 1988. The couple shared a profound bond, and their partnership enriched his later years. Nimoy's personal interests extended beyond his career. He was an advocate for social justice causes, including women's rights, and he used his platform to address important issues. His exploration of spirituality, reflected in his photographic projects and creative pursuits, showcased a deeper side to his personality. In February 2014, Nimoy announced that he had been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which he attributed to a smoking habit he had quit three decades prior. He passed away on February 27, 2015, leaving behind a legacy of artistic innovation, cultural impact, and a personal journey that continues to inspire and resonate.
  • 02/27
    2015

    Death

    February 27, 2015
    Death date
    Pulmonary disease
    Cause of death
    Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California United States
    Death location
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  • 03/1
    2015

    Gravesite & Burial

    March 1, 2015
    Funeral date
    Hillside Memorial Park W Centinela Ave, in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California 90045, United States
    Burial location
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3 Memories, Stories & Photos about Leonard

Leonard Nimoy and Fan
Natasha Medeiros
43 favorites
08/26/2011
Leonard Nimoy and Fan
Leonard Nimoy, best known for his role as Spock in the original Star Trek television series, dressed as Mr. Spock. Live long and prosper! I believe the child might actually be his son.
Date & Place: in USA
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Photo of AncientFaces AncientFaces
400 favorites
09/08/2020
On this day in 1966 a legend began when the first episode of Star Trek entitled "The Man Trap" premiered on NBC. This was the first episode aired on television although the sixth episode that was filmed. While Star Trek was canceled in 1969, the show has spawned endless movies, spin-offs and a number of technological advances which are credited to the creativity of Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry. Are you a Star Trek or Star Wars person?
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Photo of Kathy Pinna Kathy Pinna
2.74k+ favorites
08/26/2011
A smiling Spock - cool!! ;)
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Leonard Nimoy as Spock - Star Trek
Photo of Daniel Pinna Daniel Pinna
9.25k+ favorites
08/25/2011
Leonard Nimoy as Spock - Star Trek
Leonard Nimoy, born March 26, 1931, is a famous actor who made a name for himself playing the character Spock in the original television series Star Trek. Leonard Nimoy played the Spock character from 1966 through 1969 and in a number of Star Trek movies. He is a popular voice actor and has acted in a number of other films including the 1978 Invasion of the Body Snatchers.
Date & Place: at Studio in USA
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Photo of AncientFaces AncientFaces
400 favorites
02/27/2015
RIP Leonard Nimoy. Thank you for teaching us to ‘live long and prosper’.
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Photo of Filipe Medeiros Filipe Medeiros
214 favorites
08/26/2011
He's a modern renaissance man, but he couldn't get away from this role no matter how hard he tried. Kind of like Alec Guinness.
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Commander Spock and Captain James T. Kirk
Photo of Daniel Pinna Daniel Pinna
9.25k+ favorites
09/08/2020
Commander Spock and Captain James T. Kirk
Commander Spock and Captain James T. Kirk, played by Leonard Nimoy and William Shatner, pictured here in the original series.
Date & Place:
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Leonard Nimoy's Family Tree & Friends

Marriage

Sandra (Zober) Nimoy

&

Leonard Simon Nimoy

February 21, 1954
Marriage date
Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California United States
Marriage location
Divorce
Cause of Separation
1987
Divorce date
Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California United States
Divorce location
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Leonard Simon Nimoy
Leonard Simon Nimoy Mar 26, 1931 - Feb 27, 2015
Sandra (Zober) Nimoy Dec 16, 1927 - Apr 2, 2011
Child
Julie Ellen Nimoy born Mar 21, 1955
Adam Brett Nimoy born Aug 9, 1956
Marriage

Susan Linda Nimoy

&

Leonard Simon Nimoy

January 1, 1989
Marriage date
Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California United States
Marriage location
death
Cause of Separation
Bel Air, Los Angeles County, California United States
Separation location
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Leonard Simon Nimoy
Leonard Simon Nimoy Mar 26, 1931 - Feb 27, 2015
Susan Linda Nimoy born Mar 16, 1943
Child
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Friendships

Leonard's Friends

Friends of Leonard Friends can be as close as family. Add Leonard's family friends, and his friends from childhood through adulthood.
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13 Followers & Sources
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Other Biographies

Other Nimoy Family Biographies

Nimoy, Dora (Nov 19, 1905 - Dec 26, 1987) Nimoy, Nettie (Apr 15, 1881 - Jan 1972) Nimoy, Cele (Jul 12, 1907 - Nov 1992) Nimoy, Irving (Mar 10, 1903 - Jan 1972) Nimoy, Max (Nov 28, 1900 - Jul 13, 1987) Nimoy, Melvin (Born Nov 17, 1926) Nimoy, Sandra (Dec 16, 1927 - Apr 2, 2011)
Nimoy, Julie (Born Mar 21, 1955) Nimoy, Adam (Born Aug 9, 1956) Nimoy, Susan (Born Mar 16, 1943) Nimoy, Nancy (Born Sep 28, 1956) Nimoy, Madeline (Born Apr 18, 1990) Nimoy, Jonah (Born Apr 4, 1992)
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