Beloved Man of Many Faces, Kenneth Mitchell, Has Died at 49

Images: CBS / Paramount+

He not only produced art, but he “was an inspirational work of art to all the hearts he touched.” So said Kenneth Mitchell’s X account announcing that the “beloved father, husband, brother, uncle, son and dear friend” died yesterday after a nearly six-year battle with ALS. He was 49.

The Toronto native’s acting career stretches back over twenty years and almost sixty credits. He made guest appearances on many television series and had recurring roles on shows such as Jericho, Ghost Whisperer, and The Astronaut Wives Club. His film roles include Miracle and Captain Marvel. Star Trek fans, of course, know him from his multiple characters on Star Trek: Discovery and Lower Decks.

Mitchell was diagnosed with ALS in 2018 but continued to make appearances at conventions and virtually during the COVID-19 pandemic. He shared is diagnosis with Discovery co-star Mary Chieffo, who helped him share the news with his Discovery castmates and who supported him during public appearances and throughout his illness. His role as Aurellio, a human scientist in the employ of the Emerald Chain, in season three of Discovery, was written to incorporate Mitchell’s use of a wheelchair. He shared his appreciation for the Star Trek community during, for example, Virtual Trek Con two years ago.

Mitchell was married to actress Susan May Pratt, and they had two children. According to the extensive reflections on X, "he was known as a hope seeker, daydreamer, dream believer, soccer player, beach walker, bear hugger, landscape designer, garden grower, canoe paddler, happy camper, nature explorer, cat lover, infectious laugher, gift giver, note sender, movie goer, art maker, music listener, sports connoisseur, detailed particular, Leafs supporter, world traveler, uncle joker, younger brother, Susan’s partner, and more than anything else, a proud father."

Please join us in offering our condolences to the family and friends of Kenneth Alexander Mitchell.