Leonard Nimoy retires after trip to Vulcan

(AFP PHOTO/Mark RALSTON)

Best-known as Mr. Spock from Star Trek, actor Leonard Nimoy recently told the Toronto Sun that he plans to retire after 60 years in show business - "to live long and prosper," as his signature character would say.

Nimoy originated the half human/half alien Mr. Spock from the planet Vulcan in more than 100 episodes of the 1960s and 1970s Star Trek television series, and played the role in seven films, including the 2009 prequel by J.J. Abrams.

Though a respected actor, he was often typecast in the sci-fi fantasy genre. He has also produced, written and acted in other television shows and directed films, such as 3 Men and a Baby.

Most recently he starred in four episodes of Abrams' sci-fi show, Fringe, on the Fox Network in the US, a role which he has wrapped up, leaving on a "positive note."

Nimoy will probably also end his appearances at sci-fi and comic conventions, closing out with the upcoming Calgary Comic and Entertainment Expo, taking place April 24-25 (www.calgaryexpo.com/). But first he makes a stop in Vulcan, Alberta, Canada.

RC