News - Legendary 'Star Trek' Actor Michael Forest Passes at 97

Michael Forest, a veteran actor renowned for his portrayal of the Greek god Apollo in the celebrated 'Star Trek' series, passed away at the age of 97. A cherished figure in the sci-fi community, Forest's death was confirmed by his friend, James A. Brown, through a heartfelt Facebook post. Forest, whose real name was Gerald Michael Charlebois, had an illustrious career, boasting over 200 acting credits. His portrayal of Apollo in 1967's 'Who Mourns for Adonais?' made him a fan favorite, and he revisited the role decades later in the fan-produced series 'Star Trek Continues' in 2013. In a candid 2012 interview, Forest shared anecdotes about his audition for the role, which included showcasing his physique and delivering lines in what he described as a 'Mid-Atlantic theater speech'. Beyond his 'Star Trek' acclaim, Forest featured in a myriad of projects, including a role in Snoop Dogg's 2020 sci-fi parody film 'Unbelievable!!!!!'. His diverse contributions extended to voice acting and appearances in cherished television series like 'Zorro', 'The Dick Van Dyke Show', 'The Twilight Zone', and 'Gilligan's Island'. Known for his humble reflections on fame, Forest expressed that his work before and beyond 'Star Trek' was equally fulfilling. He spent his later years at MorningStar Senior Living in Sparks, Nevada, where he was known by his original name, Jerry Charlebois. Michael Forest's legacy is left not only in his memorable performances but also in the lives he touched through his art.