The character of Spock is one of the most beloved and iconic figures in the Star Trek franchise. As a Vulcan, he presents as logical, stoic, and contemplative – traits that endear him to fans all over the world. The recent series of Star Trek movies has been no exception to this rule; indeed, these films have reignited many people’s passion for the heroic Vulcans.
But who plays Spock in these latest incarnations? Who dons the pointed ears and takes on such an important role?
For J.J. Abrams’ 2009 reboot film “Star Trek,” director Abrams decided to re-cast some of the major roles from previous television shows and movies. One of these was Spock, originally played by Leonard Nimoy. Of course, it is no small task to step into shoes that were once occupied by a legend like Nimoy – but if anyone was up for it, it was Zachary Quinto.
Quinto had already built up a strong reputation in Hollywood before his casting in 2007’s “Heroes” about which IMDb says: ‘Zachary studied theater at Carnegie Mellon University…and began performing in local theater productions after graduating’, but being cast as Mr. Spock would prove to be his breakout role.
Before filming began for “Star Trek,” Quinto received voice lessons so that he could nail down Nimoy’s accent when playing older versions of Spock (who does appear briefly). He also spent time with Nimoy himself – who served as executive producer on both “Star Trek” and its sequel “Into Darkness”-where they became firm friends.
As much as Zachary brought his own spin on the character- striving not just for mimicry- audiences still appreciated being able reminisce about something old while embracing something new given Leonard Nimbus (original star trek crew member) appearances throughout both films added continuity between timelines.
Indeed, Quinto won over plenty of fans with his portrayal of Spock. He perfectly captured the character’s emotional repression and intense focus, while also conveying a sense of kindness at Spock’s core.
After “Into Darkness”, some fans wondered if Quinto would appear as Spock in any further Trek movies. Happily for them (and for Zachary!), he reprised his role yet again in 2016’s “Star Trek Beyond.”
This movie was especially poignant since it marked the first film to feature no new material from Leonard Nimoy himself – who passed away in February 2015. Instead, there is an endearing tribute to him included within the script.
So far, sources suggest that audiences won’t see Quinto donning pointy ears anymore – details about another Star Trek sequel are scarce at this stage.
However, whether or not we ever get to see him as Mr. Spock on screen again doesn’t diminish how much Zachary has done for such an iconic and hugely popular Star Trek character.…one that demanded immortality when Leonard Niimoi starred in it but one that clearly has moved into pastures greener than many could have imagined thanks to Ansari-era casting like Zachary Quinto.
The character of Spock has been a beloved and iconic figure in the Star Trek franchise since its inception. As a Vulcan, he presents as logical, stoic, and contemplative – traits that endear him to fans all over the world. The recent series of Star Trek movies has been no exception to this rule; indeed, these films have reignited many people’s passion for the heroic Vulcans.
Playing such an important role requires exceptional talent and dedication – so who plays Spock in these latest incarnations? Who dons the pointed ears and brings life to this popular character?
For J.J. Abrams’ 2009 reboot film “Star Trek,” director Abrams decided to re-cast some of the major roles from previous television shows and movies. One of these was Spock, originally played by Leonard Nimoy. Of course, it is no small task to step into shoes that were once occupied by a legend like Nimoy – but if anyone was up for it, it was Zachary Quinto.
Quinto had already built up a strong reputation in Hollywood before his casting – with IMDb mentioning his theater studies at Carnegie Mellon University after which he performed often in local theatre productions- though being cast as Mr. Spock would prove to be his breakout role.
Before filming began for “Star Trek,” Quinto underwent intensive training including voice lessons so that he could nail down Nimoy’s accent when playing older versions of Spock (who does appear briefly). He also spent time with Nimoy himself – who served as executive producer on both “Star Trek” and its sequel “Into Darkness”-where they cultivated a friendship although there could not be any attempts whatsoever towards copying or resuscitating what had already been done given Ansari era expectations toward casting.
As much as Zachary brought his own spin on the character- striving not just for mimicry- audiences still appreciated being able reminisce about something old while embracing something new given Leonard Nimbus (original star trek crew member) appearances throughout both films added continuity between timelines.
Indeed, Quinto won over plenty of fans with his portrayal of Spock. He perfectly captured the character’s emotional repression and intense focus, while also conveying a sense of kindness at Spock’s core.
After “Into Darkness”, some fans wondered if Quinto would appear as Spock in any further Trek movies. Happily for them (and for Zachary!), he reprised his role yet again in 2016’s “Star Trek Beyond.”
This movie was especially poignant since it marked the first film to feature no new material from Leonard Nimoy himself- who passed away in February 2015. Instead, there is an endearing tribute to him included within the script.
So far, sources suggest that audiences won’t see Quinto donning pointy ears anymore – details about another Star Trek sequel are scarce at this stage. However, whether or not we ever get to see him as Mr. Spock on screen again doesn’t diminish how much Zachary has done for such an iconic and hugely popular Star Trek character.…one that demanded immortality when Leonard Niimoi starred in it but one that clearly has moved into pastures greener than many could have imagined thanks to Ansari-era casting like Zachary Quinto.”