Star Trek Actor Bruce Hyde Has Died

Bruce Hyde, who appeared in two episodes of Star Trek, has died battling throat cancer at the age of 74, CNN reports.

Hyde’s widow, Susan Saetre, says the actor died on Oct. 13 in St. Cloud, Minnesota.

“He lived such a full life, he made a difference for everybody,” Saetre said. “This was his perfect last act. He was in the Hospice house, and he was drawing pictures of people who came in, he also drew a great picture of himself at a French cafe. He felt everything in his life was complete, and he was at peace.”

Hyde’s short-lived television career included his performance as Lt. Kevin Riley on Star Trek in 1966. Though his character only appeared in two episodes, Lt. Riley’s adventures continued in Star Trek novels, and Hyde appeared at several Star Trek conventions.

“He was really amazed [the show] took off and he got to be a part of it,” Saetre said. “He was really honored to meet people and touch them in some way. He used it as an opportunity to help people create possibility in their lives.”

Hyde also appeared in shows like Dr. Kildare, The Beverly Hillbillies, and That Girl, and continued to act on stage in the Minnesota/St. Paul area. He was also professor emeritus of communication studies at St. Cloud State University.