I actually shed a private tear when I heard this news. I rarely cry over a Celebrity death and the last one I recall was Elisabeth Sladen (Sarah Jane Smith from Doctor Who). I love DS9 for so many reasons, one of which is the great use of supporting characters like Nog, Garak, Rom, Leeta, etc. Not many characters get such an impressive development arc. I remember when Nog first said he wanted to join Starfleet and I thought "What an absolutely awesome thing to happen". The character developed so much. And it was all thanks to Aron Eisenberg who brought him so brilliantly to life. I never got to meet Aron though many fans did and that just makes it even worse... it's so well known how he was so selfless and generous with his time to fans. Rest in Peace good sir, you were much loved and made us smile, laugh, and cry. You moved us and made us think, and fall in love with the most unlikely of heroes. Deepest sympathy to your family, friends, and everyone who loved you and is feeling the world is just a slightly emptier place without Nog, and Aron, in it.
Very sad news but seeing those cute pictures of Aron and Malissa together makes me feel happy for their time together and I know it's true that the good times they had together would outweigh the bad. RIP Captain Nog.
A nice tribute @Bad Thoughts. I don't know why but this one feels worse than Nimoy. Maybe it's because it was so young and a character from 'my' generation of Trek. Also jeez, Cirroc Lofton actually did grow up to look like Avery Brooks.
Agreed. Nog was a favorite supporting character of mine in DS9. He went from just another mischievous Ferengi in his early roles to someone who thought he would be able to do greater things as a Starfleet officer. He then managed to fulfill his dreams, and then became a hero during the Dominion War, losing his legs in the process. You could see this slow yet steady character transformation during seven years of DS9 and Aron played him all through this time. RIP Aron. You were the finest Trek actor who really inspired us according to Gene's visions. Godspeed and LLAP!! Yes indeed . Wonder how they would've looked like in a group selfie now
Yes indeed. RIP Admiral Ross . I don't think he was a regular cast though. Aron was a regular supporting cast as well, alongside the like of Andrew Robinson (Garak), J.G. Mertzler (Martok), Marc Alaimo (Gul Dukat), and Jeffrey Coombs (Weyoun/Brunt). From post TOS & TNG Trek, we recently also lost Stephanie Niznik (Ensign Kell Perim from "Insurrection") who was perhaps famous from this scene with Jonathan Frakes: She was about Aron's age (50 years old) when she passed. I'll always remember Stephanie from her small yet memorable role in 'Insurrection.'
Found this video Aron did for a program called "This is Kidney Disease... This is Life" that he did two years ago. He discussed his lifelong struggle of living with one kidney and constant dialysis with the same positive spirit he always shown both when he was playing Nog and whenever he connected with fans in conventions, podcasts, etc. What a remarkable person
It makes sense to me. Nimoy's death affected me more. That said, Nog was a hero who was relatable, who could pick himself up after failing. And Aron embodied--quite literally--a struggle to survive and succeed. Moreover, Aron was much closer to fandom than most actors. All throughout the video, people keep mentioning how he was always reaching out to people.
I only just found out about this last night after returning from a trip. I always find words inadequate due with deaths. A lovely man, a bright light, and someone who genuinely connected with people and his passions. He's an inspiration, as are the outpourings of love for him here and elsewhere. Reminds me why Trek is overall such a great community. RIP, Aron.
I had the pleasure of meeting and chatting with Aron a few years ago at DragonCon. A very fun, good-spirited man who was quick to smile and laugh. Among my favorite actors I've met over the years. Nog had one of my favorite growth arcs of not just DS9, but in the franchise. My wife said if there was a poster child for perserverance, Nog would be it. She's absolutely right. Aron played his character wonderfully, and I am grateful that not only did I get to chat with him, but he provided endless moments of joy with his character. R.I.P., sir. Thank you for all the smiles and joy you gave to so many people.
Oh man.... For personal reasons, I've been having trouble rewatching DS9 lately. I was finally getting back into it, but it's going to be so much harder now. Nog was one of the most developed characters on the show, a showcase for fighting a system that corners you, opposing bigotry and standing up for what you want and who you know you are. Who knew that little kid in the pilot would become one of Star Trek most beloved characters? And it was all thanks to Aron's amazing performance. I wish all the best for his family and friends in what must be hard times.
I am struggling with this one. Nog was so great, and so was Aron. I just keep waiting for the Punk 'd! moment to come. Feels like a cruel practical joke.
With all the different guest appearances coming up on PIC, has it been determined whether he did any scenes for it? Trek fans everywhere would be moved to see him one more time.
Horrible news. My condolences to his friends and family. I know someone who's on dialysis. To say it's rough would be an understatement.