Beloved actor Scott Bakula mourned the passing of his close friend and Quantum Leap co-star, Dean Stockwell, on Tuesday. Stockwell, nominated for an Oscar, died at 85, leaving Bakula to reminisce about their five-year collaboration on the iconic sci-fi series.

Recalling their initial encounter during Bakula’s audition for Quantum Leap in 1988, Bakula highlighted the immediate connection that altered the course of his career and life. Stockwell’s nomination for an Academy Award shortly after joining the show added to its fortune, with Bakula expressing gratitude for having him as a co-star.