Ever pondered who brought to life the iconic Dr. Leonard "Bones" McCoy, the irascible yet deeply compassionate Chief Medical Officer of the USS Enterprise? It was Jackson DeForest Kelley, a name synonymous with Star Trek's enduring legacy, who gave the character a soul that resonated with generations of fans.
Today's crossword puzzle enthusiasts might find themselves scratching their heads over the clue: "DeForest, actor who played 'Bones' McCoy in Star Trek." The answer, of course, is Kelley himself. But there's so much more to this actor than just his Star Trek role. From his early days in Georgia to his rise through the ranks of Hollywood, Kelley's journey is a testament to his talent, dedication, and enduring appeal. His portrayal of Dr. McCoy wasn't just acting; it was an embodiment of humanism amidst the vastness of space, a comforting presence that balanced the logical Spock and the adventurous Kirk. Long before the USS Enterprise embarked on its five-year mission, Kelley was already carving out a name for himself, showcasing his versatility in a variety of roles.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jackson DeForest Kelley |
| Birth Date | January 20, 1920 |
| Birth Place | Toccoa, Georgia, USA |
| Death Date | June 11, 1999 |
| Death Place | Motion Picture & Television Fund Hospital, Woodland Hills, Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Cause of Death | Stomach Cancer |
| Parents | Clora (Casey) Kelley, Ernest David Kelley |
| Spouse | Carolyn Dowling (married 1945) |
| Education | Graduated from high school at age 16 |
| Early Career | Sang at the Baptist church where his father was a minister. First trip outside Georgia at age 17 to Long Beach, California. |
| Breakthrough Role | Fear in the Night (1947) |
| Notable Role | Dr. Leonard "Bones" McCoy in Star Trek: The Original Series (1966-1969) |
| Star Trek Films | Reprised the role of Dr. McCoy in the first six Star Trek movies (1979-1991) |
| Other Star Trek Appearances | Voiced Dr. McCoy in Star Trek: The Animated Series |
| Other Roles | Numerous movie villains before Star Trek, roles in film and television westerns. |
| Legacy | Best known for portraying Dr. Leonard "Bones" McCoy in the Star Trek franchise. |
| Middle Name (According to Novelizations) | Horatio |
| Discovery | Discovered by a Paramount Pictures scout while shooting a United States Navy training film. |
| Reference Link | Memory Alpha |
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