Date of Birth: January 20, 1920
Zodiac Sign: Aquarius
Date of Death: June 11, 1999
Biography
Jackson DeForest Kelley, better known as DeForest Kelley, was an American actor best remembered for his iconic role as Dr. Leonard “Bones” McCoy in the original “Star Trek” television series and subsequent films. Born in Toccoa, Georgia, Kelley initially pursued a career in medicine, inspired by his uncle, a physician. However, his passion for performing arts led him to Hollywood, where he began his acting career in the 1940s. Kelley made his film debut in the 1947 film “Fear in the Night” and gained notable roles in various westerns during the 1950s, such as “Gunfight at the O.K. Corral” (1957). Despite his steady work in television and film, it was his portrayal of Dr. McCoy in “Star Trek” (1966-1969) that catapulted him to fame. His character’s witty remarks, compassionate nature, and memorable catchphrases became a staple of the series, earning him a dedicated fanbase. After “Star Trek,” Kelley continued to appear in various television shows and movies, although he never quite escaped the shadow of Dr. McCoy. He embraced this legacy with grace, participating in “Star Trek” conventions and reprising his role in several “Star Trek” films from 1979 to 1991. Kelley was also a published poet and pursued various interests outside of acting, including animal rights advocacy. He passed away on June 11, 1999, in Woodland Hills, Los Angeles, California, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of science fiction and television.
5 Interesting Facts about DeForest Kelley
1. DeForest Kelley originally auditioned for the role of Spock in “Star Trek” before being cast as Dr. McCoy.
2. Before his acting career took off, Kelley served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II.
3. He appeared in over 40 films and numerous television shows throughout his career.
4. Kelley was a talented poet and published a collection of his poems titled “The Big Bird’s Dream.”
5. He was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1991.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from DeForest Kelley
1. “I’m a doctor, not a mechanic.”
2. “He’s dead, Jim.”
3. “The more they overthink the plumbing, the easier it is to stop up the drain.”
4. “You know, the difference between a doctor and a mechanic is, a mechanic can always find a part to replace.”
5. “I’m a doctor, not a bricklayer!”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, DeForest Kelley achieved a net worth of approximately $5 million.
Children
DeForest Kelley did not have any children.
Relevant Links
1. [IMDb – DeForest Kelley](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001420/
2. [Wikipedia – DeForest Kelley](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DeForest_Kelley
3. [StarTrek.com – DeForest Kelley](https://www.startrek.com/database_article/kelley-deforest
4. [Find a Grave – DeForest Kelley](https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/5556/deforest-kelley
5. [Hollywood Walk of Fame – DeForest Kelley](http://www.walkoffame.com/deforest-kelley
