Anton Yelchin’s family, friends, co-stars and fans are still mourning his tragic and untimely death. The 27-year old actor died last month in a freak accident when he was pinned against a brick mailbox by his own car.
On Wednesday night Star Trek Beyond was given the honor of opening San Diego Comic-Con with an outdoor IMAX screening accompanied by the San Diego Symphony Orchestra performing the live score. But before the screening commenced, the cast paid tribute to their late co-star and friend who’s absence was sorely felt.
The cast wore black Star Trek lapel pins in honor of Yelchin who played Pavel Chekov in the film franchise. “As wonderful as this is to be here with all of you, and to be celebrating the 50th anniversary of Star Trek, there is something wrong tonight,” said J.J. Abrams, “There is something missing tonight, there is someone missing tonight”.
“Anton Yelchin should be here,” Abrams continued. “Anton’s parents are here, Irina and Victor. We love their son and if I could ask everyone to have a moment of silence for our dear friend, Anton”.
Actor and co-writer Simon Pegg told EW at the event that Anton “was an incredible guy and this is for him tonight, he’s someone who was part of our family and we miss terribly. I know people want to know how we feel and stuff, but if you’ve ever lost anybody prematurely in circumstances that defy explanation it’s not really an experience you can put into words. It’s beyond devastating, so I just want people to see him tonight and be happy that he has been immortalized in some way”.
John Cho, who plays Sulu in the film franchise, added, “I just thought it would be appropriate to show our unity in regards to his passing, how much we love him. … I’m glad we could show our love for him this way”.
Such a beautifully simple and poignant way of honouring the late actor. If there’s any solace to be found; it’s that movies are forever and that every once in a while we can revisit Anton and celebrate his immeasurable talent and endless warmth. Anton, you are deeply missed.
#Peace.Love.AntonYelchin
