Canadian actor Kenneth Mitchell, famously known for his roles in the TV series Star Trek: Discovery and in the superhero movie Captain Marvel, died on Saturday, 24 February. He was 49.

Mitchell is survived by his wife, Susan May Pratt, and their two children, Lilah and Kailum.

"With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Kenneth Alexander Mitchell, beloved father, husband, brother, uncle, son and dear friend to many," read the statement on Mitchell's Instagram account.

"Ken is forever grateful for the massive amounts of love and endless support he received from his community along his journey. Especially the courage, resilience, and strength displayed from his extraordinary wife, family, and friends," it added.

Mitchell was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, five years ago. A year later, he became wheelchair-bound.

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a neurological disorder that affects motor neurons, the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control voluntary muscle movement and breathing.

Mitchell took on several roles in Star Trek: Discovery, including Kol-Sha and Tenavik and Aurellio. In Captain Marvel, he played superhero Carol Danvers' father.