 The character Zefram Cochrane was first seen in the original series  episode _"Star Trek" (1966) {Metamorphosis (#2.9)}_ (qv) played by  Glenn Corbett (I) (qv). There are differences between the original  Cochran and this character, most notably Kirks identification of  "Zephram Cochrane of Alpha Centauri?" but they are both noted space  flight pioneers. This Zefram Cochrane role was actually written for  James Cromwell (I) (qv). Tom Hanks (qv) was also considered for  the role, but was unavailable as he was filming  _That Thing You Do! (1996)_ (qv). Glenn Corbett (I) (qv) could not  reprise the role, he died from lung cancer in 1993.