'Captain Marvel' actor Kenneth Mitchell dies after battling ALS at 49

Kenneth Mitchell

Canadian Actor Kenneth Mitchell known for his roles in films like 'Captain Marvel' and 'Star Trek: Discovery' died on Saturday at the age of 49. He was battling complications caused by Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). He passed away on February 24.

Kenneth's family shared a statement on Instagram and X, "He's portrayed an Olympic hopeful, an apocalypse survivor, an astronaut, a superhero's dad, and four unique Star Trekkers. But to those close to him, he was known as a hope seeker, daydreamer, dream believer, soccer player, beach walker, bear hugger, landscape designer, garden grower, canoe paddler, happy camper, nature explorer, cat lover, infectious laugher, gift giver, note sender, movie goer, art maker, music listener, sports connoisseur, detailed particular, Leaf's supporter, world traveller, uncle joker, younger brother, Susan's partner, and more than anything else, a proud father (sic)."

The statement continued, "For five and a half years, Ken faced a series of awful challenges from ALS. And in truest Ken fashion, he managed to rise above each one with grace and commitment, to living a full and joyous life in each moment. He lived by the principles that each day is a gift, and we never walk alone. His life is a shining example of how full one can be when you live with love, compassion, humour, inclusion, and community (sic)."

In 2020, Kenneth had shared the news of his diagnosis of ALS where he also explained the disease that has no cure. "Hello community. It's time to share the unfortunate news that I have been living with ALS. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. It is a Neuro-degenerative disease attacking the motor neurons which are responsible for sending the signal to your muscles for movement and strength. My body is breaking down inch by inch. It is a gnarly and scary existence. There is currently no cure but there are so many wonderful organizations, scientists, researchers and doctors around the world working tirelessly to find advanced treatment. PLEASE know, despite all the challenges and chaos that my family and I face, I am full of hope and fight and light. Despite my new ever-changing disabilities, I am continuing to adapt and focus on nurturing my abilities. Please know, I am in good spirits and still enjoy to laugh and be silly. I am surrounded by a loving family and community of friends that help keep me going each day, moment to moment. This life is a gift and I will continue to seek inspiration and happiness, wonder and grace. Thank you for your open heart, wisdom and continued support, always. You never walk alone," he wrote.

Kenneth Mitchell was born in 1974 in Toronto. Apart from 'Captain Marvel' and 'Star Trek', he also featured in the post-apocalyptic TV series 'Jericho'. He is survived by his wife, Susan May Pratt, and their two children.