Beloved 'Star Trek: The Next Generation' Actress Patti Yasutake Passes Away at 70

Patti Yasutake, cherished for her role in “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” passed away on Monday at the age of 70 after a prolonged battle with cancer.

Surrounded by loved ones, Yasutake's passing was confirmed by her longtime friend and manager, Kyle Fritz, who shared the news with Deadline. Fritz, reflecting on their enduring relationship, told PEOPLE, “Patti was not just a client, she was family. She was the first actress I signed, and our friendship spanned over 30 years. It was a privilege to know her, work with her, and love her.”

Yasutake was widely recognized for her portrayal of Nurse Alyssa Ogawa on “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” a character she brought to life again in the films “Star Trek: The Next Generation” and “Star Trek Generations.”

In one of her final television roles, Yasutake appeared as Fumi Nakai, George's mother, in Netflix's critically acclaimed limited series “Beef.”

Her cinematic journey began with her major feature debut in the 1986 comedy “Gung Ho,” where she played Umeki, a Japanese wife navigating her new life in America. Yasutake later reprised this role in the ABC comedy series based on the movie.