Out of all the characters to come out of the long-spanningStar Trekfranchise, there are few that are as beloved asSpock. A stoic source of wisdom, the Vulcan has become synonymous with the image of the hit TV show created by Gene Roddenberry. While Leonard Nimoy would come to offer what is arguably the definitive performance of Spock, other actors would step into the role and make their own significant impact. At the same time, there are many actors, mostly forgotten, who played the Vulcan for but a brief, fleeting moment.
Spock’s legacy continues to this day, with actor Ethan Peck being the newest iteration of the character in the critically and fan-acclaimedStar Trek: Strange New Worlds. The Vulcan is certainly set to “Live long and prosper,” likely to always have a place in upcoming Star Trek productions. We will look at everyone who has played Spock up to date, placing them in chronological order.
11Leonard Nimoy
When someone mentions Spock, most will instantly think ofLeonard Nimoy.Leonard Nimoy, while having many rolesthroughout his career, is forever tied to the character. While the simplest reason for this is him being the first to step into the role inStar Trek: The Original Series, which ran from 1966 to 1969, it is his impeccable performance that cemented him as the definitive Spock. From mannerisms like the Vulcan salute to the raised eyebrow to lines of dialogue now integrated into pop culture, Nimoy was, by all intents and purposes, Spock. He would even carry this persona into his writing and music, fully embracing the character, albeit with a few hiccups along the way.
Still, Leonard Nimoy would come to play Spock longer than any other actor, amassing multiple credits as the logical Vulcan. His final performance as the character inStar Trek: Into Darknessfrom his first appearance marks 47 years; a feat only beaten by a small handful of actors, most in the realm of soap operas. Leonard Nimoy’s passing in 2015 at the age of 83 was certainly felt by the fandom, but he will always be remembered for his impact onStar Trekthrough his performance as Spock.
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10Billy Simpson
Billy Simpsonwas the first of many to portray Spock in his childhood, albeit in a minor role in the episode “Yesteryear” ofStar Trek: The Animated Series;a role so brief it goes uncredited. Simpson’s career was short, only having a handful of minor roles. However, his most significant contribution to entertainment came through his work as a “Demented News correspondent” for theDr. Demento Show. This legendary radio show highlighted those on the outskirts of society and fringe artists, with most knowing of him from Rainn Wilson’s performance as the DJ inWeird: The Al Yankovic Story.
9Carl Steven
Many young actors got to play the iconic Vulcan because of the time-spanning story inStar Trek III: The Search for Spock,includingCarl Steven, who played a 9-year-old Spock. Carl Steven would have a modest career in TV, film, and voice acting. He is probably best known for his performance as Tommy Pervis inHoney I Shrunk the Kidsor the voice of Fred Jones inA Pup Named Scooby-Doo.
8Vadia Potenza
Vadia Potenzaplayed a 13-year-old Spock inStar Trek III: The Search for Spock.This is Potenza’s most significant role, and his IMDb page is pretty scant. Most of his work was behind the scenes, including 21 editor credits. Most recently, Potenza acted as associate producer on the 2022 indie comedyUFO Club,which currently stands at 8.1 with only 15 reviews; for those interested,the comedy movie is free on Tubi.
7Stephen Manley
Stephen Manleywould play a 17-year-old Spock inStar Trek III: The Search for Spock. Out of all the actors to step into the role of a younger Spock, Manley would go on to be a consistent force in the industry, albeit in more minor roles and indie productions. Still, Manley is still working and has some interesting upcoming projects. Notably, he is slated to play Adolf Hitler in the sci-fi TV seriesThe Time War.
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6Joe W. Davis
The last in line to play a younger Spock inStar Trek III: The Search for SpockisJoe W. Davis, who played the Vulcan at 25. Not much is known about Davis beyond this appearance, and his following credits afterStar Trekare minor cameo appearances in largely forgotten productions, with perhaps the exception being a quick appearancein the John Cusack-ledcomedyBetter Off Dead.
5Frank Welker
Frank Welkermay not be a household name, but almost any kid will recognize one of his voices, with over 800 credits in voice acting. Welker has voiced variousTransformersin the recent blockbuster franchise, Scooby-Doo since 2002, Grafield, Curious George, Baby Kermit, and various roles inThe Simpsons. This is just scratching the epic career of Frank Weller. It is not surprising he would voice Spock, though this is such a minor entry in his vast credits. Frank Welker provided some of the screams of Spock inStar Trek III: The Search for Spock.
4Zachary Quinto
Zachary Quintocertainly had big shoes to fill when he became the first real successor to Leonard Nimoy’s Spock when he was cast in J.J. Abrams'2009 action sci-fi epicStar Trek. Leading up to this role Quinto was a relatively unknown name with his only major credit predating his stepping into the role of Vulcan, coming via a recurring role as Adam Kaufman in the popular series24starring Kiefer Sutherland.
Quinto’s performance, which is largely considered overshadowed today, sitting between Leonard Nimoy and Ethan Peck, was well received at the time, and today many believe deserves more of a spotlight when looking at the characters' legacy. Quinto portrayed a more young and rash Spock, who carried many of the signature mannerisms of the character but also showed a youthful rebellious nature that was never explored with Nimoy’s Spock. Leonard Nimoy even approved of the performance, feeling Zachary Quinto was a worthy successor.
3Jacob Kogan
Jacob Koganwould go on to play a young Spock in 2009’s Star Trek. Kogan first appeared on-screen as one of the kids inthe controversial TV seriesWonder Showzenand followed that up with a lead role in the 2007 horror thrillerJoshua. However, since his appearance inStar Trek, Kogan would go on to a few minor roles, last appearing in the 2017 made-for-TV movieInside the Woods.
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2Liam Hughes
Liam Hugheswould appear as a young Spock in three episodes of the second season ofStar Trek: Discovery. The youngest actor to make this list, Hughes is still trying to make a name for himself in the industry. Still, things look promising for the young actor, who has already appeared in notable TV shows likeChilling Adventures of Sabrina,Flash,Supernatural, andPeacemaker.
