Actor George Takei Marries Longtime Partner

Actor George Takei is preparing to officially 'live long and prosper' with his partner of 21 years.

Takei, best known for his role as Mr. Sulu on "Star Trek," will marry his longtime partner Brad Altman today in a
private ceremony.

Some 200 friends and relatives -- including fellow "Star Trek" actors Walter Koenig and Nichelle
Nichols are expected to attend the wedding.

Takei, 71, and Altman, 54, have been planning the nuptials since May, when the California Supreme Court declared the state's ban on gay marriage unconstitutional. They were among the first to obtain a marriage license in West Hollywood when they became available in June. "We were at home in the kitchen and we had the TV going, and when the word came down (about the court's ruling) Brad got on his knees in front of
me," Takei told People magazine. "And I said, `What are you doing?' He said,
`George, will you marry me?' I said, `Yes. You beat me to it. I meant to ask you."'

Details of the wedding at the Japanese American National Museum, 369
First St., in downtown Los Angeles, were not fully released, although Takei
told People Magazine the ceremony will feature Scottish bagpipes and will be
officiated by a Mexican-American Buddhist minister. They also ordered Native
American turquoise and silver rings, and the dinner was expected to feature
Japanese-Mexican cuisine.

Koenig, who played Mr. Chekov on "Star Trek," will serve as the best man, and Nichols -- Lt. Uhuru -- will be the matron of honor. "Star Trek" alum Leonard Nimoy (Mr. Spock) is also on the guest list. William Shatner was
also reportedly invited, but was not expected to attend.

Also expected to attend the ceremony are Sen. Daniel Inouye, D-Hawaii,
and Los Angeles City Councilwoman Jan Perry.

The couple are expected to honeymoon in Argentina and Peru.

In addition to his impending nuptials, Takei's career is on the upswing. He has a recurring role on "Heroes" and will appear next year in the comedy feature film "American Summer."