Leonard Nimoy Dies; Beloved Star Trek Actor Was 83

Leonard Nimoy, a veteran actor forever best known for his role as Dr. Spock on Star Trek, died today at his home in Los Angeles.

He was 83 years old.

The death of Nimoy - who battled chronic obstructive pulmonary disease for about a year (due to a former smoking habit) - was confirmed by his wife Susan to The New York Times.

Nimoy began playing the iconic U.S.S. Enterprise Vulcan officer on television in 1966 and continued in the role through most of the big screen versions of Star Trek, including a reboot in 2013.

Mr. Spock when the TV show debuted in 1966 ... and continued in the role through most of the movies -- including the most reboot in 2013.

He also made appearances on Fringe and Mission: Impossible; and did with voiceover work on The Big Bang Theory (as Sheldon’s Spock action figure), Star Trek: The Animated Series and The Simpsons (as himself).

May he rest in peace.

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.