In the glittering ballroom of a chic Hollywood event, Jonathan Frakes turned heads as he candidly addressed the criticism swirling around the latest installment of the beloved sci-fi franchise, Star Trek.
The 73-year-old actor, known for his iconic role as William T. Riker in Star Trek: The Next Generation, delved into his experience directing an episode of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy in a recent interview. Frakes discussed how the new series, centered around a group of Starfleet Academy cadets, has received pushback from diehard fans of the original Star Trek series. Reflecting on his time with The Next Generation crew in the late 80s, Frakes emphasized that they too faced skepticism and negativity when they first entered the Star Trek universe.
“It’s still dimensionally more painful [today],” Frakes admitted, pointing out the vitriol and hidden hate that online trolls unleash towards each new iteration of the iconic show. Despite the unwarranted backlash, Frakes maintained a cool composure, acknowledging the right of dissenting opinions while remaining unfazed by the unwarranted negativity.
Robert Picardo, another Star Trek mainstay who reprised his role as The Doctor from Star Trek: Voyager for Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, echoed Frakes’ sentiments. In a recent interview, Picardo addressed critics who claimed the franchise has strayed too far with its focus on diversity and inclusion. The seasoned actor, however, stood his ground, highlighting how Star Trek has always been a trailblazer in embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity since its inception in the culturally tumultuous 1960s.
Both Frakes and Picardo’s response to the backlash surrounding Star Trek: Starfleet Academy serves as a reminder that, despite the captivating allure of space adventures and futuristic technology, the series remains a mirror reflecting the evolving landscape of culture and society. In a world fraught with political turmoil and social unrest, the enduring legacy of Star Trek continues to resonate, offering viewers a beacon of hope and inspiration in an ever-changing universe.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.