Film stars, directors, friends and fans have paid tribute to Star Trek actor Anton Yelchin, who was killed in a 'freak accident' in the early hours of Sunday morning, aged just 27. JJ Abrams, who directed Anton in two Star Trek movies, penned a touching message in his honour which read: "Anton, you were brilliant. You were kind, you were funny as hell, and supremely talented. And you weren't here nearly long enough. Missing you… JJ."
Anton Yelchin was tragically killed in a freak accident aged just 27
Zachary Quinto, who plays Spock in the franchise, also posted a heartfelt tribute, writing: "Our dear friend. Our comrade, our Anton. One of the most open and intellectually curious people I have ever had the pleasure to know. So enormously talented and generous of heart. Wise beyond his years. And gone before his time. All love and strength to his family at this impossible time of grief."
© Photo: TwitterDirector JJ Abrams penned a heartfelt tribute to the star
A rep for Zoe Saldana, who stars as Uhura, told E! News: "She is beyond devastated and first and foremost her heart and prayers are with the Yelchin family during this time."
Anton, who played Chekov in the Star Trek films, is also known for his work in 2006's Alpha Dog, the 2007 film Charlie Bartlett, 2011's Fright Night and the 2015 release Green Room. He was killed in a freak accident in his own driveway in the early hours of Sunday morning, when he was pinned against a brick wall and a security gate by his car.
Anton with his Star Trek co-stars John Cho, Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto
Tom Hiddleston was also among those paying tribute to the late star. "Absolutely devastated to hear about Anton Yelchin," he wrote. "He was such a gifted, natural actor & a deeply kind man. My thoughts are with his family."
Chris Evans said: "Devastated to hear about the brilliant Anton Yelchin, he was thoughtful, kind and gifted. My thoughts and prayers are with his family."
Messages have poured in for the late actor
John Cho, Star Trek's Sulu, tweeted: "I loved Anton Yelchin so much. He was a true artist – curious, beautiful, courageous. He was a great pal and a great son. I'm in ruins, please send your love to Anton's family right now. They need it."
© Photo: TwitterOlivia Wilde was among those remembering Anton
Anna Kendrick added: "This is unreal. Anton Yelchin is such a talent. Such a huge loss." Olivia Wilde, who worked with Anton in Alpha Dog, also paid tribute: "Anton Yelchin was a bright, brilliant talent, and a truly kind person, I was so taken by him and I won't ever forget his sweet smile. RIP."
