By Karu F. Daniels, AOL Black Voices
Nichelle Nichols is brining her old black magic to 'Heroes.'
The 75-year-old actress, who made TV history on the seminal sci-fi series 'Star Trek,' is currently starring on the hit NBC drama as Nana, a New Orleans sage who experienced great loss during the devastation of Hurricane Katrina.
Now in financial hardship, Nana moved back to her once-flooded home, where she cares for her granddaughter Monica Dawson – an avenging angel aiming to bring justice to the corrupt Crescent City. "Nana is tough and undaunted and - like the blues - she just keeps rising to the occasion," the Illinois born actress told TV Guide.
Series regular Micah is also a part of Nana's family dynamic – she's his great aunt.
Widely known for her role on as Uhura from 'Star Trek' during the 1960s, Nichols broke the stereotype barrier among African American actresses by playing a non-stereotypical role.
Fast forward 40 years later, she's ready for a new close-up.
"It's a quite marvelous, magical story, with wonderful things emerging," she added.


Comments: (69)
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By: JN on 10/30/2007 10:43AM
This lady also has an incredible voice. She sang with Duke Ellington and Lionel Hampton before turning to acting. Star Trek never did showcase her vocal talents enough.
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By: Stewart Wade on 10/30/2007 9:28PM
I just worked with Ms. Nichols on a small indie project called "Tru Loved," (I wrote and directed) in which she plays the grandmother of a closeted high school football player. She is an amazing actress and yes, she does look amazing (even in person). But even more stunning was how bright, down-to-earth, and funny she is! She is truly a treasure and it's so great to see her this season on "Heroes." I hope they expand her story line.
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By: Mical on 10/31/2007 12:31AM
Too bad they didn't do an X-Men movie a few decades earlier; this beautiful lady would have been the perfect Storm.
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By: one on 10/31/2007 12:17PM
She looks pretty for her age! Is she single again? I saw her profile on millionaire dating site http://WealthyRomance.com last month. Just curious!
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By: nall on 10/31/2007 2:47PM
Yeah, she is amazing, but come on people. ya'll know she's had plastic surgery!!!
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By: Ronald T. Spriggs on 11/01/2007 10:31AM
Your story leaves me asking for more information about her.
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By: ronald baskin on 11/04/2007 12:10AM
Ms Nichols
Hopefully I've spelled you name correctly.
You have been a favorite of mine since I began watching Star Trek.!!!! You have been a heart throb for quite a few years. I watched Star Trek simply to see you. You were the most beautiful member of the fleet, but formost the someone that could inspire young girls to reach for the "stars", knowing that nothing is out of reach. Thanks for your contribution within the medi
a and the inspiration you have provided.
As far as I am concerned . you and Angela Basset are two of the HOTTEST american screen actresses around.
Thanks for just taking time to read my little comment.
Love Always,
Ron J.
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By: ronald baskin on 11/04/2007 11:02AM
75 years old? Unbelievable!!!!! Doing a story about my home, YOU GO GIRL. Not looking a day over forty.
Ron J.
P.S. I love to flatter!!!!
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By: baldomontez@aol.com on 11/13/2007 10:01AM
some one clear this up for me wasn't she Gene Roddenberry's
Lover or mistress ?
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