Frank Gorshin (Bele) passed away Tuesday in Burbank following a battle with lung cancer, emphysema and pneumonia.

Gorshin is best known to Star Trek fans as the vengeful Bele, who engages in a perpetual pursuit of Lokai, in the racially-charged episode "Let That Be Your Last Battlefield." Bele, who was white on the left side of his body and black on the right, harbored an intense hatred toward others from his home planet of Cheron who had the opposite colorings. Frank's performance in this episode earned him an Emmy nomination.

The actor, comedian, singer and impressionist is probably most well known for his energetic performance as the Riddler in the classic '60s television series Batman, starring Adam West. For this role, Gorshin was also Emmy nominated. A brilliant impressionist, Gorshin's best-known celebrity riffs included James Cagney, Kirk Douglas, Al Jolson, Bobby Darrin and Dean Martin.

Originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Gorshin began his acting career while in high school. When he was 19, he joined the U.S. Army as a performer in the Special Services. After serving two years in the Korean War, Gorshin returned to America to continue his acting pursuits. His career would ultimately span over 70 movie roles, numerous stage roles and countless television appearances.

Gorshin's last filmed role was an episode of C.S.I.: Crime Scene Investigation, which airs tonight on CBS.

Gorshin was 71.