Anton Yelchin, best known for playing Pavel Chekov in the Star Trek prequel films has passed away at age 27 due to a automatic gate accident at his home.
Mr. Yelchin was born in the Soviet Union in 1989. His parents were famed ice skaters Irina and Victor Yelchin who defected to the United States when he was just six months old, having been granted political asylum. His parents encouraged him to try figure skating, but he later admitted he wasn't good at it, choosing instead to become an actor.
He soon found himself starring alongside actors such as Anthony Hopkins and Morgan Freeman in various films. It would be the Star Trek prequel films, however, that would gain him his biggest fame. The latest installment is due to be released next month.
