Turning 86 today, Walter Koenig stood out in memorable scenes

Walter Koenig didn’t have a lot of scenes for Star Trek: The Original Series, but he made the most of them. 

Walter Koenig played Ensign Chekov for two years during Star Trek: The Original Series’ run, and while he didn’t have much to do during the series, he did have a few memorable scenes that showcased his talents as an actor. With today being his 86th birthday, let’s take a look at them.

Ensign Chekov tries to kill Captain Kirk in the Mirror Universe.

Though brief, this scene gives Koenig the opportunity to showcase a darker side of his character, and he does it well. When he’s in the elevator with William Shatner and the camera zeroes in on his face, Koenig has a sinister look of evil that would convince anyone he wasn’t the nice Russian boy he pretended to be.

Ensign Chekov’s Russian claims of ownership scenes

There were several instances where Chekov claimed Russian ownership of sayings and products, and he did so with such a look of smugness that you almost believed he believed it…even when he says the Garden of Eden was just outside Moscow.

Ensign Chekov hates being poked and prodded by the doctor.

Though only a little over thirty-five seconds in length, this scene from “The Deadly Years” shows Chekov grumbling and complaining about having to provide skin samples and blood samples to the doctor. The best line is at the end when Sulu tells him he’ll live, and Chekov responds with “Oh, yes, I’ll live, but I won’t enjoy it.” Koenig had the perfect look of irritation on his face that matched the words, and it escalated this bit scene.

Walter Koenig is a versatile actor who should have been given more scenes on the series.

Fortunately, Koenig did get to spread his wings a little on Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home, breaking out as one of the best characters in that film. Every Star Trek fan knows one scene in particular—”the nuclear wessels.” Still a fan favorite today!

Koenig didn’t get much screen time, but when he was given those small moments to shine, he did so very well. Happy Birthday, Walter Koenig!