Introduction
Rene Auberjonois, the beloved actor known for his roles in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Benson, and Boston Legal, passed away on December 8, 2019, at the age of 79. His death was a great loss to the entertainment industry, as well as to his family, friends, and fans. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the life, career, and legacy of Rene Auberjonois, and celebrate his contributions to the world of acting and beyond.
Early Life and Career
Rene Auberjonois was born on June 1, 1940, in New York City, to Swiss-born parents Fernand and Laure Auberjonois. He grew up in an artistic family, with his father being a Pulitzer Prize-nominated writer and his mother an actress and drama teacher. Rene attended Carnegie Mellon University, where he studied theater and began his acting career on stage. He made his Broadway debut in 1968 in the play “Coco,” starring Katharine Hepburn.
Throughout the 1970s, Rene appeared in numerous stage productions, films, and television shows, including “McCabe & Mrs. Miller,” “M*A*S*H,” and “The Jeffersons.” He also lent his voice to various animated series, such as “The Smurfs” and “The Snorks.” His breakthrough role came in 1976, when he played Clayton Endicott III on the sitcom “Benson,” for which he earned an Emmy nomination.
Star Trek: Deep Space Nine
In 1993, Rene Auberjonois was cast as the shape-shifting security officer Odo on the science fiction series “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.” He appeared in all seven seasons of the show, which aired from 1993 to 1999, and became a fan favorite. Auberjonois brought depth and humor to his portrayal of Odo, who struggled with his identity as a changeling and his feelings for the station’s chief medical officer, Dr. Julian Bashir.
Aside from his acting, Rene Auberjonois also directed several episodes of “Deep Space Nine,” and was a vocal advocate for the show’s diverse cast and themes. He remained a part of the Star Trek community long after the show ended, attending conventions and lending his voice to various Star Trek video games and animated series.
Other Roles and Achievements
Throughout his career, Rene Auberjonois appeared in a wide range of films, television shows, and stage productions. He worked with acclaimed directors such as Robert Altman, Steven Spielberg, and Paul Thomas Anderson, and was known for his versatility and range as an actor. Some of his notable roles include Paul Lewiston on the legal drama “Boston Legal,” Father Mulcahy in the film “M*A*S*H,” and Louis the Chef in the Disney animated film “The Little Mermaid.”
Aside from acting, Rene Auberjonois was also a talented painter and photographer, and his artwork was exhibited in galleries across the country. He was a dedicated philanthropist, supporting causes such as the arts, the environment, and civil rights. In 2001, he was awarded the National Arts Club Medal of Honor for his contributions to the arts.
Legacy and Impact
Rene Auberjonois left a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry, as well as in the hearts of his family, friends, and fans. He was known for his kindness, generosity, and humor, and his passion for acting and the arts inspired many. His portrayal of Odo on “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine” was groundbreaking for its nuanced depiction of a non-human character, and his advocacy for diversity and representation in Hollywood paved the way for future generations of actors and creators.
While Rene Auberjonois may be gone, his memory and his contributions will live on. He will always be remembered as a beloved actor, artist, and humanitarian, whose impact on the world will continue to be felt for years to come.
