Rene Auberjonois, the American actor best known from the cult series ‘Star Trek,’ has died at the age of 79.

His death was confirmed by his son, Rene, who tweeted: ‘Minions say: We're sad to confirm that Rene passed away today, Sunday.’  He told Entertainment Weekly magazine that has his father had suffered from lung cancer.

Auberjonois was perhaps best known for his role as Odo, a shape-shifter, who could take on multiple identities, in Star Trek's ‘Deep Space Nine.’  Former Star Trek colleagues posted their condolences on social media.

‘This is a terrible loss... He was a wonderful, caring, and intelligent man. He shall be missed. When I look out to the stars, I shall think of you, friend,’ tweeted fellow actor George Takei.

Actor William Shatner tweeted: ‘I will keep you in my thoughts and remember a wonderful friendship with Rene.’  Auberjonois' career spanned several decades and included roles on Broadway, in Hollywood and on television.

Born in New York in 1940, he spent his childhood in New York, Paris, and London, according to Star Trek's official homepage.

After graduating from Carnegie Mellon University, Auberjonois held roles in various theatre companies before landing his first role on Broadway with King Lear, according to the homepage.

The following year he earned a Tony Award for his work alongside actress Katherine Hepburn in the musical, ‘Coco.’  He also starred in the TV series ‘Boston Legal,’ and in several movies, including ‘M*A*S*H,’ and ‘McCabe and Mrs Miller.’