Original Series Guest Star Keith Andes Dies

Keith Andes, who played Akuta in the original Star Trek episode "The Apple", was found dead at his California home on November 11th, apparently a suicide.

The Santa Clarita Valley Signal reported that Andes, 85, had died of asphyxiation, according to a report from the Los Angeles County Coroners Office. A lifelong smoker, he had suffered from bladder cancer, kidney failure and lung disease although he was also devoted to fitness and went to the gym two days before his death.

In addition to his role on Star Trek, Andes had been known for playing General George C. Marshall in the Pearl Harbor film Tora! Tora! Tora! and for appearances in such films as The Farmer's Daughter and And Justice for All. He starred with Desilu co-founder Lucille Ball on Broadway in Wildcat and with Marilyn Monroe in the film Clash By Night.

On Star Trek he played a native of a planet controlled by a godlike being called Vaal. Friends described him as down-to-earth about his success and passionate about his motorcycle. He is survived by two sons and three grandchildren.

A more complete listing of Andes' credits may be found at the Internet Movie Database.

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