star trek ds9 julian bashir

Julian Bashir

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Julian Subatoi Bashir was a 24th century Human Starfleet officer who served as chief medical officer of the Federation space station Deep Space 9 .

• 1 Childhood
• 2 Starfleet Medical Academy
• 3.1 Dominion War
• 3.2 Research projects
• 4 Section 31
• 5 Physiology
• 6.2.1 Miles O'Brien
• 6.2.2 Martok
• 6.2.3 Elim Garak
• 6.3.1 Jadzia Dax
• 6.3.2 Melora Pazlar
• 6.3.3 Leeta
• 6.3.4 Sarina Douglas
• 6.3.5 Ezri Dax
• 7 Alternate realities and timelines
• 8 Holograms
• 9 Memorable quotes
• 10.1 Appearances
• 10.2 Background information
• 10.3 Apocrypha
• 10.4 External links

Childhood [ ]

Bashir and his parents, Amsha and Richard in 2373

Julian Bashir was born in late 2341 , the only child of Richard and Amsha Bashir . As a child, he was known as "Jules," a name his parents called him well into adulthood. He stopped calling himself Jules when he was age 15 and referred to himself by his full first name, Julian. ( DS9 : " Doctor Bashir, I Presume ")

Kukalaka, Bashir's teddy bear

One of Julian's most prized possessions as a child was his stuffed teddy bear , Kukalaka . When Julian was a boy, he took him everywhere he went. In 2346 , at the tender age of five, Bashir performed his first surgery when he re-stuffed his well-worn Kukalaka. Bashir continued to hang on to Kukalaka well into his adulthood. ( DS9 : " The Quickening ", " In the Cards ", " Inquisition ")

At age six, Bashir, in his own words, was " Small for my age, a bit awkward physically, not very bright. In the first grade , while the other children were learning how to read and write and use the computer , I was still trying to tell a dog from a cat , a tree from a house . I didn't really understand what was happening. I knew that I wasn't doing as well as my classmates . There were so many concepts that they took for granted that I couldn't begin to master and I didn't know why. All I knew was that I was a great disappointment to my parents. "

In 2348 , just before Julian's seventh birthday, the Bashir family left Earth for Adigeon Prime . At first, he was excited to see all the aliens in the hospital , but then they gave him a room and started a series of treatments. These treatments, known as " accelerated critical neural pathway formation ," were a method of genetic engineering that involved the resequencing of his DNA . Over the course of two months, his genetic structure was manipulated to accelerate the growth of the neuronal networks in his cerebral cortex, and a new Julian Bashir was made.

The focus of his "enhancements" were to increase his mental abilities and as such, his IQ jumped five points a day for over two weeks. Further treatments led to improvements in his hand-eye coordination , reflexes, vision, stamina, height, and weight. Genetic augmentation of this kind was illegal in the Federation since the Eugenics Wars and the creation of the dangerous Augment known as Khan Noonien Singh , so the Bashirs kept Julian's enhancements secret. In the end, everything but his name had been altered in some way, Julian said.

The Bashirs returned to Earth and moved to a different city, where Julian was enrolled in a new school using falsified records his parents obtained somewhere. Instead of being the slowest learner in his class, Bashir was the star pupil. ( DS9 : " Doctor Bashir, I Presume ", " Statistical Probabilities ")

As a child, Bashir was afraid of doctors because they seemed to know everything, as if they held the power of life and death in their hands. He used to think that if he didn't behave, they would make him sick. ( DS9 : " Equilibrium ") In 2351 , at the age of ten, he was living with his family on Invernia II . He and his father got caught in an ionic storm and found shelter with a girl who became ill and later died because no one present knew that a nearby herb could have saved her. This memory further influenced Bashir's choice to become a doctor. ( DS9 : " Melora ") As he got older, he decided that he wanted to know what doctors knew, to be as smart as they were. Upon furthering his education, he learned that all he really wanted to do was help people. ( DS9 : " Equilibrium ")

In 2356 , at the age of fifteen, Julian stopped calling himself Jules when he found out his parents had him genetically enhanced, believing that his parents had had him altered because they considered him defective. ( DS9 : " Doctor Bashir, I Presume ")

Julian, however briefly, considered becoming a professional tennis player. Although good enough to play professionally, he decided to give it up and become a doctor instead, knowing that his parents would approve more of his career choice. He retained a passion for tennis throughout adulthood: along with medicine and biology , it was one of the things he knew most about, being able to geek out about the material composition of rackets. ( DS9 : " Distant Voices ", " The Wire ")

Starfleet Medical Academy [ ]

While at Starfleet Medical Academy, Bashir took engineering extension classes that focused mainly on starship operations . ( DS9 : " Battle Lines ", " Armageddon Game ", " Distant Voices ")

On New Year's Eve , 2367 , Bashir attended a party at the home of Bruce Lucier , with his Andorian friend, Erit – Elizabeth Lense also attended. At the party, Erit (the Andorian) was pointed out to Lense as being Bashir, causing her to have mistaken Bashir for an Andorian for four years. ( DS9 : " Explorers ")

Doctor Elizabeth Lense in 2371

While attending Starfleet Medical Academy , Bashir designed an incredible candy bar that was far superior in food value than Starfleet combat rations . ( DS9 : " The Siege ")

Bashir was the captain of the Medical Academy racquetball team. His team won the sector championships in his final year . When he played against a Vulcan rival in his final match however, he found his greatest opponents were the ones with no formal training. At another tournament, he picked up a five-thousand-year-old battle warm-up exercise from a top player . According to legend, the warm-up makes the heart a friend to the hand. ( DS9 : " Rivals ")

Julian graduated in 2368 as salutatorian , missing one question on the final, where he mistook a preganglionic fiber for a postganglionic nerve during the oral exam phase of his Starfleet Medical finals. ( DS9 : " Emissary ", " Q-Less ", " Distant Voices ") The valedictorian of his class was Elizabeth Lense. ( DS9 : " Explorers ") Despite graduating salutatorian, he did graduate first in his class in pediatric medicine. ( DS9 : " To the Death ")

After graduation, Bashir was offered the choice of any job in the fleet. He was also offered a position at a prestigious medical complex in Paris by its top administration, Mr. Delon, the father of Bashir's then-girlfriend, Palis Delon . He promised Bashir he would be chief of surgery within five years, which meant Bashir would have to give up his Starfleet career. Bashir came very close to taking the position but subsequently gave it up, as well as Palis. ( DS9 : " Armageddon Game ")

Deep Space 9 [ ]

Bashir's arrival on Deep Space 9, along with Jadzia Dax

Choosing to stay in Starfleet, and not wanting a cushy job or a research grant, Bashir chose an assignment aboard Starbase Deep Space 9 . At the time, it was one of the most remote outposts available, located beyond the farthest reaches of the Federation, allowing Bashir the chance to study "real frontier medicine". On stardate 46379 , 27-year-old Lieutenant Junior Grade Bashir was transported to his new posting at Deep Space 9 by the USS Cochrane . It did not take Bashir long to experience frontier medicine. During the first week of the Federation take-over of Deep Space 9, the station was attacked by Gul Jasad of Cardassia , who believed that the station had destroyed a Cardassian vessel. The vessel had really entered a stable wormhole near the station. Bashir was called to the station's Promenade to treat the wounded. ( DS9 : " Emissary ")

While serving on Deep Space 9, he met Elim Garak , a Cardassian tailor, who Bashir thought might have been a spy. ( DS9 : " Past Prologue ") Bashir was enthralled by him and they became friends, with Bashir frequently trying to pry secrets from Garak. ( DS9 : " Past Prologue ", " Cardassians ", " The Wire ")

Later that year, he accompanied Benjamin Sisko , Kira Nerys , and Kai Opaka on a journey through the Gamma Quadrant . They crash landed on a moon where war was eternal, and the combatants did not die. He, along with Miles O'Brien , visited a village on Bajor and helped the people pick a new Sirah to drive off the Dal'Rok , an energy being, from the village. ( DS9 : " Battle Lines ", " The Storyteller ")

During an away mission, Bashir rescued a Kobliad security officer from a burning ship. The criminal she was transporting transferred his mind into Bashir's mind and controlled Bashir into committing criminal acts, until he was driven out of his consciousness and destroyed. ( DS9 : " The Passenger ")

At one point, Bashir became a Human game-piece in a Wadi game that Quark was forced to play to teach him a lesson in honesty. Quark believed that if he lost, his friends would die, but it was only a game. ( DS9 : " Move Along Home ")

During an accident on the space station, Bashir saved the lives of a group of Federation ambassadors. ( DS9 : " The Forsaken ")

He began a friendship with Elim Garak , the only Cardassian on the station. He saved his life by removing an implant from his brain that had been put there by Enabran Tain , the former head of the Obsidian Order . Together, they also exposed Gul Dukat 's plot to embarrass Kotan Pa'Dar , whose son was left on Bajor during the Cardassian Withdrawal from the planet . ( DS9 : " The Wire ", " Cardassians ")

Bashir and O'Brien helped destroy the nano-biogenic weapons of the T'Lani and Kellerun . Officials of both races ordered the assassination of both men in order to make sure that the secrets of the weapons would not become known. ( DS9 : " Armageddon Game ")

In 2370 , he became the first Starfleet officer to cross over to the mirror universe in more than a hundred years. His counterpart was one of the leaders of the Terran Rebellion against the Alliance . ( DS9 : " Crossover ")

He unknowingly took part in a fixed racquetball game against O'Brien. A swindler had opened a new bar on the station and was hurting Quark's business. Bashir was the favorite in the game, and by fixing it so O'Brien won, would have garnered Quark huge profits. ( DS9 : " Rivals ")

Bashir with Odo in 2371

In 2371 , Bashir, along with Jadzia Dax and Sisko, was accidentally transported back in time. They went back three hundred years to the time of the Bell Riots on Earth. It was a time of social upheaval and they were instrumental in helping the government become aware of the poor. Later in 2371, he was attacked by Altovar , a Lethean who was attempting to steal bio-mimetic gel from the infirmary . The Lethean's telepathic attack put Bashir into a coma , but Bashir managed to fight his way back to consciousness. Shortly thereafter, he helped O'Brien expose a Romulan plot to destroy the wormhole through a series of time jumps. ( DS9 : " Past Tense, Part I ", " Past Tense, Part II ", " Distant Voices ", " Visionary ")

After an attack by the Jem'Hadar , the USS Defiant was heavily damaged. Bashir and Dax were trapped in a turbolift , with a limited supply of air. Just as their air ran out, they were freed from the lift. ( DS9 : " Starship Down ")

During the war with the Klingons , Bashir saw war close up. He attended to the wounded on a colony attacked by the Klingons. With limited medical facilities, he was still able to treat and save many of the wounded. ( DS9 : " Nor the Battle to the Strong ")

Bashir was promoted to full lieutenant in 2372 . Early that year, Bashir participated in drills aboard Deep Space 9, in preparation for potential Changeling infiltrators, where he coordinated phaser sweeps of the Promenade. On stardate 49011, Bashir prepared his staff for the pending Klingon assault on the station. ( DS9 : " The Way of the Warrior ")

On stardate 49066, Bashir and Chief O'Brien conducted a mission to the Gamma Quadrant that included a bio-survey of Merik III . En route to the Bajoran wormhole , their runabout , the Rubicon , detected a subspace magneton pulse in the Bopak system . The source was later determined to be coming from a Jem'Hadar attack ship , located on the planet Bopak III . ( DS9 : " Hippocratic Oath ")

Held captive by the Dominion in 2373

Later that year, Bashir was at a burn treatment conference on Meezan IV . He went to bed one night and woke up in the Dominion Internment Camp 371 . Meanwhile, a Changeling had replaced the doctor aboard the station for over a month. ( DS9 : " In Purgatory's Shadow ") The Changeling Bashir remained aboard Deep Space 9, secretly laying the pieces of a plan to trigger a supernova in the Bajoran sun with a bomb composed of trilithium , tekasite , and protomatter , in order to wipe out a large chunk of the combined Alpha Quadrant fleet at once. When the time came, the Changeling Bashir hijacked the runabout Yukon to perform his mission, but at about the same time, the real Bashir and his fellow prisoners escaped the internment camp. Bashir was able to alert the station that the other Bashir was a fake just in time, and the Changeling plot was thwarted by the Defiant . ( DS9 : " By Inferno's Light ")

Bashir enjoyed the holosuites at Quark's . One of his favorite programs was a spy novel, with Bashir in the title role. When the explosion from a sabotaged runabout blew out the station's transporter, Michael Eddington was forced to save the patterns of Sisko, Dax, Kira, O'Brien, and Worf in the station's computer. Their neural patterns took up so much space in the main computer that it had to store their physical patterns in the holosuite Bashir was running, causing the senior staff to appear as characters in his program. ( DS9 : " Our Man Bashir ")

Working with Lewis Zimmerman in 2373

Bashir's genetically engineered status was revealed in 2373, after Lewis Zimmerman chose him to be the template for the Long-term Medical Holographic program . Bashir was nearly expelled from Starfleet service upon this revelation, due to regulations barring any genetically augmented personnel from serving in their ranks, citing the danger that "for every Julian Bashir that can be created, there’s a Khan Singh waiting in the wings." However, a special exception was eventually made provided Bashir's father accept incarceration for violation of eugenics laws, which he did. Their interactions during this stressful period eventually brought Bashir and his parents closer together - they had been estranged from each other for years because Bashir thought they had had him genetically enhanced as a child because they were disappointed by him. ( DS9 : " Doctor Bashir, I Presume ")

Bashir later encountered other genetically enhanced humans who had undergone the same accelerated critical neural pathway formation process he did as a child. Their enhancements left them as savants who were confined to a specialized Institute and unable to function in normal society, where their "genetic status" prevented them from joining Starfleet or performing certain professions in the Federation. However, Bashir encouraged them to find ways to be productive members of society; but after they briefly considered forcing Starfleet to surrender to the Dominion to prevent undue bloodshed, Bashir managed to convince them to return to the Institute. ( DS9 : " Statistical Probabilities ")

Dominion War [ ]

Bashir participated in numerous military operations during the war. He was with Sisko when they destroyed the ketracel-white storage depot. The Jem'Hadar ship they used suffered heavy damage and lost its warp drive. When the ship crashed, it was on a planet where a Jem'Hadar ship had previously crashed. A battle ensued between the crews. Elim Garak and Nog were captured by the Jem'Hadar. But with Keevan , the Vorta leader hurt, they were released in exchange for Bashir treating Keevan. Bashir operated on him and saved his life. Keevan then betrayed his forces because he had run out of ketracel-white and worried that the Jem'Hadar would kill him. ( DS9 : " A Time to Stand ", " Rocks and Shoals ")

Bashir fighting the Jem'Hadar on AR-558

Bashir took part in the recapturing of the station and driving the Dominion back to Cardassian space. Later that year, he was a part of Worf's and Jadzia's wedding. He and O'Brien used Ma'Stakas to attack Worf and Jadzia at the end of the wedding, which was a Klingon tradition (as well as an opportunity for the two to vent their frustrations over the trials and suffering endured during the symbolic lead-up to the wedding ceremony itself). While studying genetically-engineered Humans, he learned from them that the attempt by the Dominion to open peace talks and cede territory was a ruse in order to acquire planets that could help produce ketracel-white. ( DS9 : " Favor the Bold ", " Sacrifice of Angels ", " You Are Cordially Invited ", " Statistical Probabilities ")

Bashir took part in the defense of AR-558 , which was a planet that guarded the supply route of the Federation. He found a cure for the virus that Section 31 infected Odo with, saving Odo's life. Bashir took part in the final battle of the war. After the war was won by the Federation Alliance , Bashir said goodbye to his friend, Miles O'Brien and began a relationship with Ezri Dax. ( DS9 : " The Siege of AR-558 ", " Extreme Measures ", " What You Leave Behind ")

Research projects [ ]

Bashir and Data (2369)

On stardate 46578 , Bashir boarded the USS Enterprise -D to access its computer's bio-imaging systems in sickbay , following the discovery of what he believed was a medical scanner discovered in the Gamma Quadrant. With the assistance of Commanders Data and La Forge , they ran a full circuit pathway diagnostic on the device in engineering . While working with Data, Bashir became interested in cybernetic research. Bashir was fascinated by all the trouble his creator took to make Data, who he referred to as a " synthetic lifeform ", seem "Human". He was especially surprised by how "personable" Data was, and among other things, questioned Data about whether his hair grew, and observed that Data was "breathing" and had a "pulse", questions that Data had never been asked before, people being more focused on how he was different from Humans rather than how he was similar to them.

During their investigation of the device, it emitted a plasma shock that overloaded Data's positronic net , activating a series of previously dormant circuits that subsequently allowed Data the ability to dream . With Data's permission, Bashir took this opportunity to author a paper on the subject with the intentions of getting published in the Starfleet Cybernetics Journal . ( TNG : " Birthright, Part I ")

One of Bashir's notable projects was on biomolecular replication . His work was submitted by Jadzia Dax and later nominated by the Federation Medical Council for 2371 's Carrington Award for his work, which was, according to Dax, "both audacious and groundbreaking." This made Bashir the youngest nominee in the history of the Carrington Award. He was honored to be nominated, but felt that the undeniable truth was that he was far too young to be a serious candidate for the award. ( DS9 : " Prophet Motive ")

Another of Bashir's early research topics on Deep Space 9 was an immuno-therapy project of T-cell anomalies conducted on Bajor. Doctor Lense had read Bashir's research and was extremely interested in his work. ( DS9 : " Explorers ")

While on Bopak III, Goran'Agar , a Jem'Hadar, implored Bashir to conduct some scientific research in order to find the cure for their addiction to ketracel-white . Bashir agreed, and initially tested for potential matches containing the molecular structure of the enzyme receptors in the Jem'Hadar's bodies. Upon further investigation, it was determined that there was no cure on the planet and that Goran'Agar was a genetic anomaly. ( DS9 : " Hippocratic Oath ")

Another project Bashir worked on at this time was a treatment for the Teplan blight , a fearsome bioweapon used by the Dominion to punish at least one planet, Teplan , for resisting them. However, his initial attempt to treat a number of patients ended disastrously with Bashir discovering too late that Dominion had prepared the weapon to fatally accelerate its symptoms when subjected to the electromagnetic fields of modern medical equipment. Although deeply despondent at this failure, Bashir inadvertently discovered an in-vitro vaccine that would allow the population to give birth to children immune to the blight. Despite this breakthrough, which earned a commendation from his superiors, Bashir still researched the disease for some time before apparently giving up and presumably delegating the project to Starfleet Medical . ( DS9 : " The Quickening ")

By 2373 , he was working on two studies of prion replication in ganglionic cell clusters. ( DS9 : " Doctor Bashir, I Presume ")

Section 31 [ ]

In late 2374 , Bashir was selected by Luther Sloan , a member of the covert Federation intelligence group, Section 31 , as a potential operative. While the crew of DS9 believed he was attending a medical conference on Casperia Prime , he was abducted by the group and placed in a holographic simulation to determine his potential of being a Section 31 operative. Although offered a position as part of their organization, he turned down the offer. However, Sisko ordered him to join Section 31 as a double agent. ( DS9 : " Inquisition ")

A year later , Bashir was contacted by Sloan to serve as an operative for Section 31 during Bashir's trip to lecture at a conference on Romulus . Sloan led Bashir to believe that he was planning to assassinate the chairman of the Tal Shiar , Koval . In reality, it was an operation to prevent Kimara Cretak from ascending to a position on the Continuing Committee . ( DS9 : " Inter Arma Enim Silent Leges ")

Several months later, Bashir and O'Brien realized that Section 31 was responsible for the morphogenic virus that was killing the Founders of the Dominion, as well as their friend Odo. Bashir sent a false message to Starfleet Medical , informing them that he had found a "cure". Sloan traveled to Deep Space 9 with the intent of destroying the cure. Bashir and O'Brien were successful in restraining him and, using Romulan mind probes , were successful in extracting the cure from Sloan's mind before he died. ( DS9 : " Extreme Measures ")

Physiology [ ]

Due to his genetic enhancements, Julian, in many ways, possessed a superior physiology to other Humans. His intellect was the most obvious example of this, as he was able to perform complex computations faster than a computer ( DS9 : " A Time to Stand ", " Rocks and Shoals "), and his total recall was almost absolute. ( DS9 : , " Inter Arma Enim Silent Leges ") This also made him one of a few Humans who could play Tongo on a Ferengi level and got to the point that he could beat several experienced Ferengi after a few games. ( DS9 : " Extreme Measures ", " Change of Heart ")

Physically he was also enhanced, although his physical abilities were mostly less remarkable. His hand-eye coordination was greatly enhanced to the point where he could hit the smallest part of a dart board with ease at over eight feet, ( DS9 : " Doctor Bashir, I Presume ", " Extreme Measures ") his hearing was also enhanced beyond that of a normal Human ( DS9 : " Statistical Probabilities "), and his strength and reflexes were at least on par with a Vulcan 's. ( DS9 : " Take Me Out to the Holosuite ")

In 2375, Koval found that as an apparent result of Bashir's enhanced parietal cortex , his brain's neurocellular structure was not susceptible to Romulan mind probes. ( DS9 : " Inter Arma Enim Silent Leges ")

He also had limited control of his vital signs, although he lost control if significantly weakened. ( DS9 : " Extreme Measures ")

Personal life [ ]

One of Bashir's early ancestors was the 15th century poet, Singh el Bashir . ( DS9 : " Statistical Probabilities ")

Bashir's great-grandmother 's name was Watley , and she served as a Starfleet officer during the mid- 23rd century . In 2373 , when the USS Defiant traveled back to 2268 by way of the Orb of Time , he encountered a Lieutenant Watley aboard the USS Enterprise . Bashir became momentarily convinced that Lieutenant Watley was his great-grandmother, and that he may be facing a predestination paradox . Since no one ever knew his great-grandfather , he thought that he might be destined to fall in love with Lieutenant Watley and become his own great-grandfather. ( DS9 : " Trials and Tribble-ations ")

Bashir did not have a positive relationship with his parents for many years. Bashir believed his parents had had him genetically enhanced as a child because they were disappointed by him. He lived his life as a child and a young adult to try to please his parents, even choosing a medical career because of them instead of one in tennis. His father thought that Bashir considered himself better than his parents because of the enhancements. They would often argue, and Bashir felt compelled to stay away from his parents. He blamed them for changing him and he felt "unnatural", a "freak". Both Bashir and his parents misunderstood each other, however: Bashir's parents had had him genetically enhanced because they loved him and were worried about him; and Bashir didn't think himself better than his parents, but along with thinking his parents were disappointed in him, believed his father didn't take responsibility for the problems he brought on himself and his family. When the family secret about Bashir's illegal enhancements became public by accident, Bashir's father brokered a deal with Starfleet to be incarcerated so that Bashir could retain his position in Starfleet. Their interactions during this stressful time brought the family closer together and helped them understand each other. ( DS9 : " Doctor Bashir, I Presume ", " Distant Voices ")

Friendships [ ]

Miles o'brien [ ].

O'Brien and Bashir sing "Jerusalem" together

Bashir's best friend was Miles O'Brien. At first, they did not get along; O'Brien felt that Bashir was annoying. This all changed when both men were marked for assassination after helping to destroy biological weapons. O'Brien was wounded, and Bashir helped save him. They enjoyed playing darts and racquetball. Together they had many adventures in the holosuites, the most noteworthy being the Battle of Britain and The Alamo . They even built a scale model of the Battle of the Alamo . ( DS9 : " The Storyteller ", " Armageddon Game ", " Rivals ", " Homefront ", " The Changing Face of Evil ")

Bashir is surprised by Miles' admission

When O'Brien was given twenty years of prison memories for a crime he did not commit by the Argrathi and could not adjust, he attempted to kill himself. One of the false memories was that he had killed his best friend in prison. It was Bashir who was able to talk him out of the attempt and get him help. Bashir was dismayed when during the final battle of the Dominion War, O'Brien told him he was leaving for Earth to become a professor at Starfleet Academy. ( DS9 : " Hard Time ", " What You Leave Behind ")

Although Bashir fell in love with Ezri Dax in 2375, he confessed that he liked Miles "a little bit more", indicating the strong bond of friendship that formed between the two over their seven years of service together on Deep Space 9. ( DS9 : " Extreme Measures ")

Martok and Bashir were both prisoners at Internment Camp 371. Ever since their escape, Martok had always trusted and respected Bashir's medical expertise.

Elim Garak [ ]

An amused Bashir with Garak in 2371

Bashir struck up an unlikely friendship with Elim Garak. He was interested in him because he thought Garak might be a spy. Garak first introduced himself to Bashir during the Tahna Los incident on the station, in such a flirtatious way it confused Bashir and left him quite flustered. They worked together to expose a plot by Dukat to embarrass a Cardassian official who wished to reconcile Cardassia with Bajor.

They had many lunches together. It was during one of these luncheons that Bashir discovered an implant that was killing Garak and he was able to save him. Bashir and Garak often discussed literature during their lunches and frequently debated the differences between Human and Cardassian written works. Garak also became Bashir's sidekick in Bashir's holoprogram about international spies. Together, they saw many combat duties during the Dominion War. ( DS9 : " Past Prologue ", " Cardassians ", " The Wire ", " Distant Voices ", " Our Man Bashir ")

Relationships [ ]

Jadzia dax [ ].

Dax having a personal conversation with Bashir on the Defiant

Bashir was infatuated with Dax from the very beginning, when they met on a transport to Deep Space 9, and since then desperately pursued her. Quark once said of Bashir as being there every other day "crying into his synthale over her". ( DS9 : " Emissary ", " Playing God ") She enjoyed his flirtatious attempts to become intimately involved with her, and according to Ezri Dax , would have entered a romantic relationship with him had Worf not come along. ( DS9 : " Emissary ", " A Man Alone ", " Starship Down ", " Afterimage ")

Melora Pazlar [ ]

Melora was an Elaysian who was briefly commissioned to Deep Space 9. She and Bashir had a brief romantic affair, during which Bashir worked on a way to adapt Nathaniel Tero's neuromuscular adaptation theory into a working, long-term solution to Melora's gravity problems. Melora ends up pulling the plug on the treatment, as she wants to be able to return home. She leaves the station and her and Bashir's relationship presumably ends. ( DS9 : " Melora ")

Leeta's first meeting with Bashir and Dax

Leeta first showed interest in Bashir in 2371. She faked a cold in order to meet him. They broke up a year later, in 2373. They went to Risa to complete the Bajoran Rite of Separation . Later that year, Nog helped Bashir retrieve his teddy bear, Kukalaka, from Leeta, who had failed to give it back after their break-up. ( DS9 : " Explorers ", " Let He Who Is Without Sin... ", " In the Cards ")

Sarina Douglas [ ]

Bashir first met Sarina Douglas when he was studying a group of genetically-enhanced Humans. The following year, he helped restore her to a normal life by using a neurocortical probe, helping her relate to other Humans. He fell in love with her, and she appeared to fall in love with him as well. In the end Julian's affection for her almost drove her back in seclusion, so he let her go. ( DS9 : " Statistical Probabilities ", " Chrysalis ")

Ezri Dax [ ]

Julian and Ezri, the morning after

When Ezri arrived on the station, Bashir was drawn to her because she carried Jadzia's memories. At first, they tried to avoid each other. But nothing could stop their attraction to each other, culminating in a passionate kiss in a turbolift on the way up to Ops. An annoyed Worf sends them back down, but they didn't appear to notice. They spent their first romantic night together on the eve of the final battle of the Dominion War . ( DS9 : " The Dogs of War ", " What You Leave Behind ")

Alternate realities and timelines [ ]

In 2371 , Chief Miles O'Brien experienced a series of alternate timelines after becoming infected with delta-series radioisotopes following an accident aboard Deep Space 9 . This, coupled with the presence of a cloaked Romulan warbird nearby, had the effect of shifting him forward in time by several hours . In one timeline, O'Brien died due to the damage that the radioisotopes did to the basilar arteries in his brain stem which was not discovered until Bashir performed an autopsy on him after having tried and failed to save O'Brien for over an hour. Bashir warned the time-displaced O'Brien who had the past Bashir perform a basilar arterial scan , allowing him to fix the damage in time. In another timeline, the station was destroyed by the warbird and it's unknown if Bashir was one of the personnel who managed to escape or not. ( DS9 : " Visionary ")

Doctor Bashir, in the 25th century

In an alternate timeline created in 2373 , the USS Defiant was thrown several hundred years in the past, where it crash-landed on the planet Gaia in the year 2173 . After the crash, Bashir married one of the ships' crewmembers, Angie Kirby . After several generations, the colony encountered the Defiant once again, where Bashir learned that the planet was "crawling with Bashirs". He made a special point to get down to the planet to meet some of his descendants. While on the surface, Bashir surveyed of the settlement's clinic to determine what supplies needed to be left behind, where he met his great-great-great-great granddaughter: the doctor. She made quite a fuss over Bashir, whose " healing touch" was something of a legend on the planet. ( DS9 : " Children of Time ")

In a future alternate timeline, during the early- 2400s , Bashir held the rank of full commander, and was among the crew aboard the USS Defiant that traveled to the Bajoran system in an attempt to recreate the conditions that caused the disappearance of Captain Sisko. It was revealed during this timeline that he had multiple offspring. Bashir also commented on how long it had been since he used a two-dimensional control panel, and later suggested they drop by Morn 's bar for a drink. ( DS9 : " The Visitor ")

Holograms [ ]

Bashir was holographically duplicated at least once.

• In 2373 , Doctor Lewis Zimmerman based his initial test version of the Long-term Medical Holographic program on Bashir's likeness. ( DS9 : " Doctor Bashir, I Presume ")

Memorable quotes [ ]

• See I'm a doctor, not a...

Appendices [ ]

Appearances [ ].

• TNG : " Birthright, Part I "
• " Emissary " (first appearance)
• " Past Prologue "
• " A Man Alone "
• " Captive Pursuit "
• " The Passenger "
• " Move Along Home "
• " The Nagus "
• " Battle Lines "
• " The Storyteller "
• " Progress "
• " If Wishes Were Horses "
• " The Forsaken "
• " Dramatis Personae "
• " In the Hands of the Prophets "
• " The Homecoming "
• " The Circle "
• " The Siege "
• " Invasive Procedures "
• " Cardassians "
• " Rules of Acquisition "
• " Necessary Evil "
• " Second Sight "
• " Sanctuary "
• " The Alternate "
• " Armageddon Game "
• " Whispers "
• " Shadowplay "
• " Playing God "
• " Profit and Loss "
• " The Maquis, Part I "
• " The Maquis, Part II "
• " The Wire "
• " Crossover "
• " Tribunal "
• " The Jem'Hadar "
• " The Search, Part I "
• " The Search, Part II "
• " The House of Quark "
• " Equilibrium "
• " Second Skin "
• " The Abandoned "
• " Civil Defense "
• " Meridian "
• " Defiant "
• " Fascination "
• " Past Tense, Part I "
• " Past Tense, Part II "
• " Life Support "
• " Heart of Stone "
• " Destiny "
• " Prophet Motive "
• " Visionary "
• " Distant Voices "
• " Improbable Cause "
• " The Die is Cast "
• " Explorers "
• " Family Business "
• " Shakaar "
• " The Adversary "
• " The Way of the Warrior "
• " The Visitor "
• " Hippocratic Oath "
• " Indiscretion "
• " Rejoined "
• " Starship Down "
• " Little Green Men "
• " The Sword of Kahless "
• " Our Man Bashir "
• " Homefront "
• " Paradise Lost "
• " Crossfire "
• " Return to Grace "
• " Sons of Mogh "
• " Bar Association "
• " Accession "
• " Rules of Engagement "
• " Hard Time "
• " The Muse "
• " For the Cause "
• " To the Death "
• " The Quickening "
• " Body Parts "
• " Broken Link "
• " Apocalypse Rising "
• " The Ship "
• " Looking for par'Mach in All the Wrong Places "
• " Nor the Battle to the Strong "
• " The Assignment "
• " Trials and Tribble-ations "
• " Let He Who Is Without Sin... "
• " Things Past "
• " The Ascent "
• " Rapture "
• " The Darkness and the Light "
• " The Begotten "
• " In Purgatory's Shadow "
• " By Inferno's Light "
• " Doctor Bashir, I Presume "
• " A Simple Investigation "
• " Business as Usual "
• " Ties of Blood and Water "
• " Ferengi Love Songs "
• " Soldiers of the Empire "
• " Children of Time "
• " Blaze of Glory "
• " Empok Nor "
• " In the Cards "
• " Call to Arms "
• " A Time to Stand "
• " Rocks and Shoals "
• " Sons and Daughters "
• " Behind the Lines "
• " Favor the Bold "
• " Sacrifice of Angels "
• " You Are Cordially Invited "
• " Resurrection "
• " Statistical Probabilities "
• " The Magnificent Ferengi "
• " Who Mourns for Morn? "
• " Far Beyond the Stars "
• " One Little Ship "
• " Honor Among Thieves "
• " Change of Heart "
• " Wrongs Darker Than Death or Night "
• " Inquisition "
• " In the Pale Moonlight "
• " His Way "
• " The Reckoning "
• " Valiant "
• " Profit and Lace "
• " Time's Orphan "
• " The Sound of Her Voice "
• " Tears of the Prophets "
• " Image in the Sand "
• " Shadows and Symbols "
• " Afterimage "
• " Take Me Out to the Holosuite "
• " Chrysalis "
• " Treachery, Faith and the Great River "
• " Once More Unto the Breach "
• " The Siege of AR-558 "
• " Covenant "
• " It's Only a Paper Moon "
• " Prodigal Daughter "
• " The Emperor's New Cloak "
• " Field of Fire "
• " Chimera "
• " Badda-Bing, Badda-Bang "
• " Inter Arma Enim Silent Leges "
• " Penumbra "
• " 'Til Death Do Us Part "
• " Strange Bedfellows "
• " The Changing Face of Evil "
• " When It Rains... "
• " Tacking Into the Wind "
• " Extreme Measures "
• " The Dogs of War "
• " What You Leave Behind "

Background information [ ]

Julian Bashir was played by Alexander Siddig .

In March 2015, Executive Producer Rick Berman related on his Twitter account, " When I first saw Siddig on film I wanted him as Sisko. Then I learned he was in his 20s (couldn't have a teenage son) so he became the doc. " [1] Another actor who auditioned for the role was Edward Rawle Hicks . [2] Siddig commented: " This doctor who was gonna be called Amoros, who was gonna be from Central America, ended up being me . [3]

Julian Bashir was originally called "Julian Amoros", and his name was only changed at the last minute prior to the filming of " Emissary ". In the "DS9 Bible", while most of the characters had several pages describing their back-story and giving information on their psychology, Amoros' description was simply, "a Human male in his mid-twenties; may have an accent depending on casting." In the first draft script of "Emissary", Amoros was described as "Human, male, mid-twenties, wide shouldered with a boyish face, trying to appear confident." The character was described in much the same way in the final draft of the "Emissary" script, though his surname was changed to "Bashir" by then and the latter statement of the initial description was now altered to refer to him as "cocky with a little too much confidence." As Alexander Siddig pointed out in 2002, " He was a completely blank canvas, no one knew anything about him ." He believes that the only reason the character was created was because the producers knew there had to be a doctor on the show, but beyond the fact that he was a doctor, "they were all scratching their heads." ( Crew Dossier: Julian Bashir , DS9 Season 6 DVD special features)

In " Emissary ", it was stated that Bashir was twenty-seven, which would make his birth date late in the year of 2341 or early in 2342 . This is confirmed by the mention of his birth date in 2341 in " Distant Voices ".

According to Michael Piller , " We wanted to do something that very rarely happens on Star Trek ; we wanted to create an imperfect character, we wanted to create the tenderfoot in the old western town, somebody who's ready to go out to the great unknown, but isn't quite ready for it. We saw the potential of having the character grow into his role as a hero ." ( New Frontiers: The Story of Deep Space Nine , DS9 Season 2 DVD special features) Ira Behr elaborates on this, " Doctor Bashir began as probably the least liked character on the series by the fans, tremendous resistance to Dr. Bashir for some reason. They felt he was too green, too arrogant, too wet-behind-the-ears, too fumbling. And we said 'We are going to make this character great, because Sid is a great actor, and we are going to make this character great.' And again, over the years, this character has grown by leaps and bounds ." ( Crew Dossier: Julian Bashir , DS9 Season 6 DVD special Features)

Speaking in 1992 , shortly after filming had begun on " Emissary ", Siddig El Fadil said of Bashir, " He's a brilliant medic, knows very much how to apply himself, and cares very much about being a doctor, and people, and general things in that sense. But there's a chink there, something that makes him lose his concentration a little bit, and it's his zealousness, his enthusiasm for things. But he also has a romantic vision of what he's capable of, which might get him into an awful lot of trouble ." (Hidden File 08, DS9 Season 1 DVD special features)

Ronald D. Moore commented " In my mind, Julian was of Sudanese (like Sid), Indian, or Pakistani extraction, but that the family's roots were probably in England, hence the accents. " ( AOL chat , 1997 )

Making Bashir genetically engineered in " Doctor Bashir, I Presume " was a last-minute decision. As Ira Steven Behr explains, " at the time we were working on " In Purgatory's Shadow " and " By Inferno's Light ", we had no idea that Bashir would turn out to be genetically engineered… even though it was the very next episode… " In Jimmy Diggs ' original version of " Doctor Bashir, I Presume ", the Bashir/ Zimmerman plot was the B-story. The producers were uninterested in the A-story, but they loved the idea of Zimmerman using Bashir as the model for the LMH and decided that it was worthy of being an A-story in and of itself. However, they were aware that a comedy show dealing with holographic doctors would not be enough to sustain an entire episode, and they decided that to make things more interesting, Zimmerman would have to discover some dark secret from Bashir's past. As René Echevarria says of Ronald D. Moore , " his instinct was that there needed to be some big secret that Zimmerman uncovers, but we couldn't, for the life of us, think what it would be ." According to Moore, " I kept saying 'What's the secret of Bashir's past? What's the thing that this guy Zimmerman is going to find that's so interesting?' I remember that René and I started talking about genetics, and René pointed out that genetic engineering is one of the things that is oddly missing in the Star Trek universe. It's a concept that's very much out there in science fiction, and even in the real world of science, but in Star Trek , it's virtually never discussed, aside from the fact that there was this thing called the Eugenics Wars at some point, and Khan came out of it ." That conversation ultimately led Moore to come up with the idea that Bashir was genetically enhanced. ( Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Companion  (p. 430-431)) Alexander Siddig was not happy about this sudden development in his character: " I didn't know about it on Tuesday, and on Thursday the script arrived – we started shooting on Friday. I was so shocked. You know you get the impression that maybe the producers sit down and talk about strategies and character arcs with actors but this thing came out of the blue and pissed me off so royally. " Siddig interpreted the change as an attempt to turn his character into Data , a tendency which he fought against by deliberately playing any "Data-esque" lines badly. [4] Siddig did enjoy the episode: " I think 'Doctor Bashir, I Presume' was probably the best one I got to do. It was a really good idea for an episode, and it had some interesting elements in it. Bob Picardo was great. The guy is a blast, a lot of fun. I'd known him before doing the show, but only on an acquaintance level. We'd met at a convention in Australia and in a couple of other places. He's really good. He can come back again if he wants to – I'd hire him! I also liked in that episode they finally gave Bashir parents, because we hardly knew anything about his family before then. And on top of that they have me parents who'd given me a tricky life. The whole genetic engineering issue, I thought, was an interesting double whammy. I went from getting Bashir ready to become this wonderful holographic doctor to realizing that he was actually a fraud. That's really good stuff ". ("A Truly Model Doctor", Star Trek Monthly  issue 30 )

• Despite claims that the decision to make Bashir genetically engineered was last-minute, the so-called "Shatnerverse" novel The Return hints at Bashir's enhanced abilities (Bashir is operating on Kirk when a proximity alarm goes off and Data - observing the operation - instinctively holds his arm up to block the expected spray of blood from Bashir being caught off guard. However, Bashir manages to keep his surgical hand perfectly still). The novel was published 10 months before this episode first aired.

The relationship built up between O'Brien and Bashir was very important to all of the writers, as well as both actors. According to Ronald D. Moore , after the scene where they sing " Jerusalem " together in " Explorers ", all of the staff writers wanted to write scenes involving their friendship. According to Alexander Siddig , " it's been said, by even the producers, that O'Brien and Bashir are the only real friendship that's ever happened on Star Trek . These two really are friends. It's not like some kind of odd couple scenario, like Spock and Kirk . It's a real friendship. These people talk about inane things, and I think that's been really refreshing ." Robert Hewitt Wolfe elaborates, " It was just great. There was just great chemistry between the two actors, great chemistry between the two characters. It was brilliant of Michael and Rick to create these two characters as foils for each other. And to then see this relationship develop over the years till they're best friends, till Miles actually likes Bashir kind of almost better than his wife some days, which is very real, I mean there's days that everybody, you know, it's easier to be friends with a friend than with your wife some days ." ( Crew Dossier: Miles O'Brien , DS9 Season 5 DVD , Special Features) Ira Behr goes even further, and cites it as his favorite relationship in all of Star Trek ; " The relationship between Bashir and O'Brien is the best relationship, the best friendship, in the history of the franchise. Spock and Kirk were still about the captain and his number one. This is a friendship with two equals, two guys. It's a wonderful thing to watch how this relationship has grown ." ( Crew Dossier: Julian Bashir , DS9 Season 6 DVD special features)

Early in the run of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine , Michael McGreevey pitched a story to the writers that featured Jadzia and Bashir falling in love. McGreevey commented " It was a love story, a simple concept. I don't know why they didn't want to do it. The symbiont inside Dax becomes ill, making her ill, and Dr. Bashir must separate them in order to treat the symbiont. We would come to see the personality of Jadzia , which of course is different from Dax. Bashir falls in love with her, and she feels for him, too. But the most important thing in life is to be joined with the symbiont. Bashir realizes that the only way to save the symbiont is to put it back into Jadzia, and thereby lose the girl he loves ". ( The Official Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Magazine  issue 8 )

Bashir, Quark , Morn , Admiral Chekote , and Gul Evek are the only characters to appear in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine prior to appearing in Star Trek: The Next Generation .

Bashir is one of the few regular characters to be referenced in an episode name. The other similarly-honored regulars are Spock , Data , Deanna Troi , Jadzia Dax , Quark , Brad Boimler and Tom Paris . While Jean-Luc Picard does not have an episode title referencing him, he has in fact an entire series named after him.

Apocrypha [ ]

According to the video game Star Trek: Starship Creator , Bashir was born in London. The cover art for the Section 31 Novel Control states his date of birth to be August 29, 2341 (though this date of birth is never confirmed officially).

The novel The Siege establishes that Bashir was on Earth attending the Academy during the impending Borg attack of 2367 .

In the DS9 relaunch novels, Bashir and Ezri break up when Ezri began to pursue a more command-based career path after incorporating her past hosts into her personality. Ezri went on to receive a battlefield promotion to Captain of the USS Aventine when most of the ship's senior staff were killed and remained as its commanding officer.

In Zero Sum Game , Bashir reunited with Sarina Douglas and renewed their relationship during a mission to sabotage a Breen shipyard. Bashir contemplated a transfer to Starfleet Intelligence as he now felt more like just another Starfleet doctor without the opportunities for "frontier medicine" he had originally come to the station to practice, as well as the fact that almost all of his old friends in the station's command structure had left the station. However, Bashir eventually decided to remain on Deep Space 9 in Plagues of Night .

As a result of his work to save the Andorians from extinction (by providing them with extremely classified information concerning a meta-genome) in A Ceremony of Losses , Bashir was court-martialed by Starfleet and dishonorably discharged. However, due to a pardon from the newly-elected Andorian Federation President, the discharge was changed to an honorable one in Disavowed .

Bashir and Douglas continued their quest to destroy Section 31. Ultimately, in Control , he discovered that Section 31 was being run by an artificial intelligence called Uraei, also known as " Control ", which had its origins in the 22nd century . With Data 's help, he managed to eliminate Uraei, but in the process, Douglas died and Bashir himself was rendered catatonic. Section 31 was exposed to the public and dismantled but unknown to anyone, the Control persona survived independently of Uraei and went into hiding. Bashir, still catatonic, was taken to Cardassia where, as of Enigma Tales , he remains under the care of Castellan Garak's staff.

Bashir appears in the "Victory is Life" expansion of Star Trek Online , played once more by Alexander Siddig. Set over 30 years after the events of DS9, Bashir had retired from Starfleet to run a private practice on Trill but was asked to return to Starfleet by now-Kai Kira and Captain Ezri Dax due to the Hur'q threat. Despite the promotional materials showing him with the rank of Captain, he appears in game at the lower rank of Lieutenant Commander. During the campaign in the Gamma Quadrant, Bashir accompanies Kira and the player character to the moon where Kai Opaka had been marooned four decades before (" Battle Lines ") and administers a cure for the microbes that keep Opaka and the now-peaceful Ennis and Nol-Ennis prisoners trapped on the surface, allowing them to leave. When Quark and his Ferengi team recover the Sword of Kahless from an Iconian dreadnought, Bashir is able to determine that its blade was created from a four-thousand-year-old Hur'q carapace, originally from the planet Havas-Kul in the Gamma Quadrant. In the mission "Home", Bashir and the Vorta Loriss work to introduce a ketracel-based compound into the Hur'q's organic computer system in order to restore their cognitive function, an effort that is successful due to the sacrifice of the Jem'Hadar Elder Dukan'Rex . At the mission's end on DS9, he mentions that he will be deployed to Havas-Kul aboard the USS Aventine , and that he is also married to the ship's captain (confirmed, like in the DS9 relaunch novels, to be Ezri Dax in the STO fiction blog "Spores", which links to the "Age of Discovery" expansion; "Home" also establishes that they have multiple children). Bashir also replaces the Andorian doctor Ghee P'Trell in the earlier mission "The Ultimate Klingon", dealing with a mad scientist working to create Klingon Augments .

Julian Bashir of the alternate reality

The alternate reality version of Julian Bashir appears in the third issue of the Star Trek: Ongoing story arc The Q Gambit where he serves as a doctor at a Dominion labor camp on Bajor . When the sciences division officers of the USS Enterprise are taken prisoner and brought to the camp, he meets Spock and Dr. Leonard McCoy after saving McCoy from be brutalized by a Cardassian overseer. They explain to Bashir that they were brought over a hundred years into the future by Q and he explains to them that the Federation no longer exists. He then eagerly offers to help them by paying Quark off to smuggle Spock and McCoy off-world in cargo containers and pass the Vorta supervisors in exchange for Romulan ale .

External links [ ]

• Julian Bashir at StarTrek.com
• Julian Bashir at Memory Beta , the wiki for licensed Star Trek works
• Julian Bashir at Wikipedia
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Deep Space Nine star Alexander Siddig discusses his time on Star Trek, the future of conventions and his new film Skylines

Alexander Siddig , who played Dr. Julian Bashir on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine for seven seasons, has stayed busy with a multitude of projects since wrapping up on the series 22 years ago. With work in television and feature films, ranging from 24 , Game of Thrones , and Gotham , to Kingdom of Heaven , Hannibal and Clash of the Titans , the seasoned actor shows no signs of slowing down. His latest project Skylines , the third and final installment in the Skyline film series, harkens back to his science fiction roots on DS9 with the character General Radford. Siddig recently sat down with TrekNews.net to discuss his time on Deep Space Nine , appearing at conventions, a possible return to Star Trek, and compares Bashir to Radford.

Hi, Alexander. Thank you for taking the time to chat with us today! Let’s kick things off with a couple of Star Trek questions:

Deep Space Nine has had a major resurgence in popularity in recent years — due in part to the release of Ira Steven Behr’s What We Left Behind documentary, along with the series’ availability on DVD and multiple streaming services. Being such a major part of the show, as Dr. Bashir, how do you look back on DS9?

I look back on the series with great affection. I remember that as soon as it finished, I was relieved that it was over because I was itching to get on with life and was feeling out of place in Los Angeles among all the glamorous people there jostling for attention, but as my fledgling career started to take shape and I could achieve some sense of perspective, I realized how ridiculously lucky I was to have been part of such a noble enterprise.

“Would he have quit the Federation altogether and become a professor? Maybe he wound up in command? Goodness only knows.”

In the documentary, a hypothetical eighth season was discussed in some detail. What would have you liked to have seen happen to Bashir if the series had continued?

Bashir had been recruited by Section 31 by the end of the seventh season. It would have been really interesting to see how the sometimes antithetical elements of that shady life might have caused real problems for him as a man of medicine. Also, his genetic enhancement and the internal struggles he may have had once that secret was out might have interesting to explore.

There’s been rumors and some vocal desire to see the series remastered and released in high definition. Have you heard anything about DS9 in HD and do you think we’ll eventually see that happen?

I don’t know anything about that. I remember that we switched to filming the show in an HD-ready format during the run of the show.

[Read our interview with Robert Meyer Burnett discussing some of the complications in releasing Deep Space Nine and Voyager in HD.]

Prior to the pandemic, you attended quite a few Star Trek conventions over the years and got to see first-hand the appreciation fans still have for DS9. Have you had any memorable experiences at conventions and is attending them something you miss?

I had so many memorable experiences, some life-affirming, others, not so much: stalkers, lurkers… I kind of worry for some of the vulnerable people I met and shared a laugh and hugs with so many others. The fans make Star Trek what it is.

What do you think Bashir would be doing now, more than two decades after leaving space station Deep Space Nine (following the events of the series finale “What We Leave Behind”)?

The mind boggles! Would Section 31 have finally compromised his ethics? Would he have quit the Federation altogether and become a professor? Maybe he wound up in command? Goodness only knows.

“I kind of like being slightly wicked.”

Do you keep up with Star Trek in its current form ( Discovery , Picard , and Lower Decks )? If so, what are your thoughts?

I’m sorry to say that I don’t — I watched a few excellent episodes of Discovery when it made its debut — but we have an embargo in my household on the ever-expanding list of channel subscriptions. We just had to draw a line once we realized that we were spending more on TV than food!

Would you have any interest in appearing as Bashir again — maybe in Star Trek: Picard or the announced Section 31 series with Michelle Yeoh?

Of course but I’m not sure I’d feel like stepping back into Bashir’s shoes again for a cameo, a disposable tidbit to move the action along in. I’d certainly be interested in a good in-depth look at him and where he’s at though.

Let’s switch gears a little and discuss one of your most recent projects, Skylines, where you play General Radford. For those who aren’t familiar, the film is the third and final installment of the Skyline series. What can you tell us about the movie and your character?

It’s a wonderful, old school film. Entirely entertaining and great COVID time relief. I play a general who gets a crack group together to go millions of light-years away from earth to deal with an alien species that threaten to destroy our home. It’s familiar and strange at the same time and that’s the right combination for good, honest entertainment. I highly recommend it if you like high octane sci-fi.

Both being sci-fi characters, how would you compare Radford to Bashir?

They are completely different. Radford could more easily compare to a mirror universe Bashir though!

Do you have any new year’s resolutions?

None. I don’t have the resolve or strength of purpose to see anything worthwhile to the bitter end in the name of self-betterment. I’m totally riddled with vices, I’m sure, but I kind of like being slightly wicked.

Alexander, thank you so much for joining us!

My pleasure!

Skylines is now available on YouTube , Amazon Prime and Vudu .

Check out the trailer below.

Stay tuned to TrekNews.net for all the latest news on Star Trek: Discovery , Star Trek: Strange New Worlds , Star Trek: Picard , Star Trek: Lower Decks , Star Trek: Prodigy , and more.

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Founded TrekNews.net in 2011. UX, visual designer, and published photographer based in the Boston area. Connoisseur of Star Trek, sci-fi, '80s horror, synthwave sounds, and tacos. You can follow Brian on Twitter @brianwilkins .

January 19, 2021 at 2:51 am

The question or status of DS9’s HD remaster was resolved years ago. TNG’s Blu Ray release underperformed in the market. That put the brakes on any talk about remastering DS9 or Voyager. CBS/Paramount isn’t going to foot the bill for it, and none of the streaming platforms have offered either. Upscaling is a nice notion, but as of today, nothing will look as good as scanning the original negatives.

January 19, 2021 at 9:52 am

I’m still holding out hope that it happens. The interest level in DS9 and to a lesser extent VOY seems to rise every day. Fingers crossed.

Dusty Ayres

February 4, 2021 at 3:28 pm

You’ll be keeping them crossed forever, MK2900, because it will still never happen . Time to face reality and deal.

February 4, 2021 at 3:23 pm

My sentiments exactly, E, and I also tried to tell others in the comments section of the article about why said remastering would never happen, only to be accused of having a stick up my ass and of ‘being a liberal’, whatever that meant. Looks like people need to be reminded why, again.

Joanna Durkin

January 19, 2021 at 9:50 am

I would love to see Bashir return in Discovery (through time travel) or if that Section 31 series ever gets off the ground. Make it happen CBS!

January 19, 2021 at 10:14 am

We need more Bashir! More Sisko, Quark, Kira, Worf, O’Brien and Dax too!

May 8, 2023 at 9:09 am

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Star Trek: Deep Space Nine: When Was Julian Bashir Replaced by a Changeling?

One of the enduring mysteries of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine is when exactly Dr. Julian Bashir was replaced with a changeling imposter in Season 5.

• Star Trek: Deep Space Nine introduced the Changelings, characters who could mimic the appearance of other humanoids, including Dr. Julian Bashir.
• At some point in Deep Space Nine Season 4, Dr. Bashir was replaced with a Changeling working against the Federation.
• While it's not explicit, fans can still reasonably surmise when Dr. Bashir was replaced by his Changeling doppelgänger.

Despite running for seven seasons, there are plenty of unanswered questions from Star Trek: Deep Space Nine . This is likely just how the storytellers wanted it, since the series was meant to be different from its predecessors. The biggest change was the introduction of serialization, and the larger story about war with the Dominion. Founded by Changelings who could mimic any person, Dr. Julian Bashir was the first central character to be replaced by this new enemy. But when did it happen?

The first Changeling on the show was Odo, a mysterious but heroic character on the station who didn't know his origins. When he finally found his people, he discovered one of Star Trek 's greatest villains. The idea of shapeshifters replacing Starfleet personnel was an excellent dramatic problem. So much so, the species was revived for the third season of Star Trek: Picard . In Season 5, the Federation's cold war with the Dominion was heating up. One of the greatest shocks in the season was when Worf and Garak discovered Dr. Bashir in a prisoner of war camp.

When DS9 Revealed Dr. Julian Bashir Was Replaced by a Changeling

Deep Space Nine Shows How Star Trek Does Religion

The most crucial detail in Deep Space Nine when Dr. Bashir is revealed to be a Changeling is the real Julian is still wearing the "old" Starfleet uniforms. Both Deep Space Nine and Star Trek: Voyager featured their respective crews in different uniforms than those worn by the characters on The Next Generation . The new uniforms had their defining color over the shoulders, while the rest of the space suit was black. This was the reverse of The Next Generation's look , though the USS Enterprise-D crew never switched over to the new style. Deep Space Nine changed those uniforms to match the new ones introduced in Star Trek: First Contact midway through Season 5.

The episode, "In Purgatory's Shadow," features Worf and Garak on a mission to Dominion space, looking for the latter character's father, Tain. He was presumed lost in an ill-fated attempt to attack the Changelings. The two are quickly taken prisoner, where they discover Julian Bashir and the high-ranking Klingon General Martok. Meanwhile, on the station, the crew prepares for a Dominion attack, and the phony Bashir sabotages their efforts. Instead of an attack, the Changeling Bashir was going to sacrifice himself with a sci-fi bomb that would destroy Bajor's sun .

The resulting supernova would've decimated the planet and the space station, leaving the wormhole to Dominion space unguarded. The Changeling Bashir is killed in the attempt, while the real Julian returns to station Deep Space Nine with Worf, Garak and the other rescued prisoners. In the episode, Bashir doesn't have much information about how he was replaced by the Changeling. He tells Worf that he went to sleep one night and awoke in the prison. In reality, actor Alexander Siddig didn't know he wasn't playing the real Bashir until "In Purgatory's Shadow" began filming, according to Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Companion by Terry J. Erdmann with Paula M. Block.

When Was Julian Bashir Actually Replaced by the Changeling Infiltrator?

Deep Space Nine's Jake Sisko Can Help Evolve Star Trek Storytelling

In both "In Purgatory's Shadow" and a later Deep Space Nine episode, Dr. Bashir says he was held captive by the Changelings for around five weeks. Since he was wearing the old Starfleet uniform, this is meant to signify he was replaced before the Season 5 episode "Rapture," when the new uniforms made their TV debut. The episode before it, "Ascent," only involves Dr. Bashir near the end when Odo and Quark are rescued from an inhospitable planet. As this is the last time Julian is seen in the old uniform, it's reasonable for fans to think it's still actually Dr. Bashir . But it might not be.

The Changeling Dr. Bashir may already be in place during Season 5, Episode 8, "Things Past." The crew are struck by a sci-fi affliction that traps them in one of Odo's memories. During the episode, Dr. Bashir asks the computer for diagnoses and information more often than he usually does. The problem afflicting the crew was theretofore unknown, which may be why he needed the help. However, it could retroactively be seen as a signifier the Changeling had already replaced Julian and simply didn't have the same skill as a doctor.

It does seem fairly clear that Julian is himself in Season 5, Episodes 6, "Trials and Tribble-ations," where the crew is sent back in time. The crew witnesses the events of Star Trek: The Original Series ' famous "The Trouble with Tribbles" episode. Julian knows both Starfleet history, and his own family background in a way the Changeling imposter wouldn't. Season 5, Episode 7, "Let He Who Is Without Sin" has Julian engaged in a Bajoran break-up ritual with his then-girlfriend Leeta. Changelings don't understand humanoid relationships, so it's unlikely the imposter could've faked his way through that.

The Deep Space Nine Timeline Doesn't Always Make Sense

Lower Decks Could Finally Tell the Riker Story Deep Space Nine Left Unfinished

On the second-wave Star Trek series, time passed in indeterminate ways . For shows like The Next Generation or Voyager , this didn't really matter since there was little serialization. Deep Space Nine was a different story. It stretches credulity the events that unfold on the series between "Rapture" and "In Purgatory's Shadow" all take place within the "37 days" Julian says he's been captured. Dialogue in these intervening episodes suggest about six weeks pass for the characters. Since Siddig was unaware of this twist, there aren't even subtle performance differences to give the audience clues.

The pace of writing a show like Deep Space Nine was intense, even more so with the added element of serialization. Since the writers were on different pages, this means there is no exact canonical answer. It's up to the audience to decide for themselves when Dr. Bashir was replaced by the Changeling. They have to accept this imposter did things like save Captain Sisko's life by performing brain surgery or delivered Kirayoshi O'Brien, Miles and Keiko's child carried by Kira (to explain Nana Vistor's real-life pregnancy).

As far as Julian giving his time in captivity as 37 days, that can be explained as a mistake on his part. The uniform is more difficult to explain. Unless Dr. Bashir wore the old uniform for some reason, the likeliest bet is he was replaced by the Changeling imposter around the time of "Ascent," either before the events of the episode or shortly after. Yet, this is one of those Star Trek mysteries fans can answer based on their own preference. Since the writers weren't able to properly foreshadow it, it's up to the viewers to fill in the gaps.

STARFLEET DATABASE

Personnel File

Agent julian bashir.

Agent Overview

In late 2374, Bashir was selected by Luther Sloan, a member of the covert Federation intelligence group, Section 31, as a potential operative. While the crew of DS9 believed he was attending a medical conference on Casperia Prime, he was abducted by the group and placed in a holographic simulation to determine his potential of being a Section 31 operative. Although offered a position as part of their organisation, he turned down the offer. ( DS9 : " Inquisition ")

A year later, Bashir was contacted by Sloan to serve as an operative for Section 31 during Bashir's trip to lecture at a conference on Romulus. Sloan led Bashir to believe that he was planning to assassinate the chairman of the Tal Shiar, Koval. In reality, it was an operation to prevent Kimara Cretak from ascending to a position on the Continuing Committee. ( DS9 : " Inter Arma Enim Silent Leges ")

Several months later, Bashir and O'Brien realized that Section 31 was responsible for the morphogenic virus that was killing the Founders of the Dominion, as well as their friend Odo. Bashir sent a false message to Starfleet Medical, informing them that he had found a "cure". Sloan traveled to Deep Space 9 with the intent of destroying the cure. Bashir and O'Brien were successful in restraining him and, using Romulan mind probes, were successful in extracting the cure from Sloan's mind before he died. ( DS9 : " Extreme Measures ")

Assignments

Appearances.

Star Trek: Deep Space Nine: Recurring Character

Section 31 Episodes:

• Season 6, Episode 18 " Inquisition "  (First appearance)
• Season 7, Episode 16 " Inter Arma Enim Silent Leges "
• Season 7, Episode 23 " Extreme Measures "

Star Trek: Julian Bashir's Tale of Genetic Engineering and the Complexity of Parental Acceptance

Dr. Bashir's Star Trek journey challenges viewers to navigate moral ambiguity, the quest for perfection, and the beauty of human imperfection.

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Julian bashir: a brilliant healer with a genetic secret, the moral quandary of acceptance, lessons in imperfection.

Dr. Julian Bashir, the brilliant and compassionate chief medical officer aboard Deep Space Nine, carries a secret encoded in his very DNA — a tale of genetic engineering born out of parental concern and the desire for a brighter future. As Star Trek delves into Dr. Bashir's backstory, fans uncover the genesis of his genetic modification.

Dr. Richard Bashir and Amsha Bashir, faced with the challenges of their son's early struggles, embarked on a controversial path. Young Julian grappled with academic and social hurdles, prompting his parents to make a life-altering decision — to genetically enhance their child.

RELATED: Star Trek: What Is Spock's Biggest Flaw?

This move was no small feat, especially in a future Star Trek society that had unequivocally banned genetic engineering on humans. The decision to tread into forbidden territory reflected the desperation of parents who wanted nothing but the best for their son, even if it meant challenging the very fabric of Federation principles.

Born on Earth in the mid-24th century, Dr. Julian Bashir's life story is a fascinating exploration of genetic engineering, moral dilemmas, and the unyielding spirit of resilience. From an early age, Julian exhibited an insatiable curiosity and intelligence that set him apart. However, this precociousness was coupled with challenges that manifested in academic and social struggles during his formative years. As he navigated these difficulties, little did Bashir know that his parents harbored a secret solution to ensure his success and well-being.

Fast forward to Star Trek: Deep Space Nine , where Dr. Bashir has grown into a respected and accomplished Starfleet officer. The revelation of his genetic enhancements becomes a poignant plot point, unfurling a tapestry of ethical questions and societal dilemmas. How does the Federation, an organization built on principles of equality and justice, respond to a man who has been genetically altered against its very laws?

Bashir's tale also casts a spotlight on the darker corners of the Federation's utopian vision . The potential for discrimination against those who undergo genetic enhancements looms large. In a society that prides itself on diversity and inclusion, how does one reconcile with the notion that some individuals might be inherently superior due to genetic augmentation?

Beyond the legal and societal implications lies a deeper moral dilemma — that of acceptance between parents and children. The Bashir family saga prompts us to reflect on the lengths to which parents might go to secure a prosperous future for their progeny. Are there limits to the sacrifices a parent should make for their child's success? And conversely, what are the consequences of discovering that one's success is rooted in a clandestine act of genetic manipulation ?

Dr. Richard Bashir and Amsha Bashir's decision to genetically enhance their son was born out of a desperation familiar to any parent who has watched their child struggle. The desire for Julian to flourish academically and socially led them to defy Federation laws, illustrating the lengths parents are willing to go to secure their child's well-being. This act raises a poignant question: Can we fault parents who, faced with the limitations of their child's natural abilities, resort to extraordinary measures in pursuit of a better life?

The revelation of Julian's genetic enhancements on Deep Space Nine becomes a crucible for acceptance. How does a son reconcile the knowledge that his very essence has been altered without his consent? Dr. Bashir's journey is not merely one of personal discovery but also a narrative on parental acceptance. In learning the truth, he confronts the complex emotions tied to his parents' decisions, and they, in turn, grapple with the consequences of their choices.

The moral predicament extends beyond the personal realm into the broader context of societal expectations. While the Federation frowns upon genetic engineering, does this condemnation extend to familial relationships ? The Bashir family saga forces us to confront the potential discrimination that may arise even within the most intimate unit — the family.

In the Federation's pursuit of perfection and equality, the Bashir family's story reminds fans that imperfection is an intrinsic part of the human experience. The moral quandary of acceptance challenges humanity to reevaluate societal norms and the expectations we place on ourselves and others. Does the pursuit of an idealized version of humanity risk overshadowing the beauty found in our flaws and uniqueness?

Acceptance, in this context, is not a one-time act but a continuous process of understanding, forgiveness, and redemption. Julian Bashir's journey is not about absolving his parents or the Federation of their actions but about finding a path forward. It explores whether acceptance, even in the face of grave mistakes, can lead to personal growth, reconciliation, and a deeper understanding of what it truly means to be a family.

In navigating the ethical dilemma of acceptance, Star Trek offers us a mirror to reflect on our own societal norms, familial relationships, and the intricacies of the human spirit. The legacy of Dr. Bashir challenges us not just to question the ethics of genetic engineering but to embrace the imperfections that make us undeniably human. It is a call to arms for empathy, understanding, and the enduring power of acceptance in the face of profound moral complexity.

Star Trek is a space exploration franchise originally created by Gene Roddenberry. The series has spanned shows like The Original Series, The Next Generation, and Voyager. More recently, developer Scopely came out with Star Trek Fleet Command, a mobile title where you get to be captain of your own ship.

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• Cast & crew
• User reviews

Our Man Bashir

• Episode aired Nov 27, 1995

When a transporter emergency turns the command crew into holosuite characters, Bashir's James Bond fantasy takes on a deadly reality. When a transporter emergency turns the command crew into holosuite characters, Bashir's James Bond fantasy takes on a deadly reality. When a transporter emergency turns the command crew into holosuite characters, Bashir's James Bond fantasy takes on a deadly reality.

• Winrich Kolbe
• Gene Roddenberry
• Rick Berman
• Michael Piller
• Avery Brooks
• Rene Auberjonois
• Michael Dorn
• 12 User reviews
• 4 Critic reviews

• Captain Benjamin 'Ben' Sisko …

• Constable Odo

• Lt. Cmdr. Worf …

• Lt. Cmdr. Jadzia Dax …

• (credit only)

• Chief Miles O'Brien …

• Doctor Julian Bashir

• Major Kira Nerys …

• Michael Eddington
• (as Kenneth Marshall)

• Mona Luvsitt

• Falcon's Henchman
• (uncredited)
• Cardassian Computer
• Go-Go Dancer
• All cast & crew
• Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

Did you know

• Trivia MGM Studios, owners of the James Bond movie franchise, were said to be unhappy with the episode, which they felt crossed the line from parody to infringement. Studio officials sent a letter to DS9 series producers, expressing their displeasure, which resulted in the cancellation of a planned sequel episode about Agent Bashir's further adventures. (Agent Bashir was then limited to cameos within a few episodes of the series.) This was similar to the controversy which happened when TNG attempted to spoof Sherlock Holmes in Elementary, Dear Data (1988) and Ship in a Bottle (1993) .
• Goofs Dr. Bashir states that it is illegal to enter into a holosuite while it is in use. This is often believed to be contradicted by the many instances of this happening throughout Star Trek: Voyager (1995) and Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987) ; however, those shows take place on Federation starships, and would therefore be subject to Starfleet regulations. This incident takes place aboard a Bajoran space station, however, and would therefore be subject to Bajoran law, not Starfleet regulations. Therefore, it may well be illegal on DS9 for someone to enter into a holosuite in use, while the same behavior is overlooked, or even allowed, onboard Starfleet vessels.

Dr. Julian Bashir : I work for one of the nation states of this era, Great Britain, which is battling various other nations in what is called the Cold War. This apartment, my clothes, weapons, even my valet were provided to me by my government.

Garak : I think I joined the wrong intelligence service.

• Connections Featured in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine: What You Leave Behind (1999)
• Soundtracks Star Trek: Deep Space Nine - Main Title (uncredited) Written by Dennis McCarthy Performed by Dennis McCarthy

User reviews 12

• planktonrules
• Dec 28, 2014
• November 27, 1995 (United States)
• United States
• Official Site
• Paramount Studios - 5555 Melrose Avenue, Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, USA (Studio)
• Paramount Television
• See more company credits at IMDbPro

Technical specs

• Runtime 46 minutes

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Star Trek: Deep Space Nine | Dr. Bashir, I Presume Beam Me Up: A Star Trek Podcast

Dr Lewis Zimmerman has come to Deep Space Nine to use Dr. Bashir as the model for the new LongTerm Medical Holographic program, but while researching his subject, he stumbles on to a long held Bashir family secret that could get Julian discharged from the service.  It's an episode that fundamentally changes Dr. Bashir, but is it for the better or the worse?  And what does our first time watcher think of the mother of all retcons?  Let's find out. If you're watching with us, the next episode will be on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine | Soldiers of the Empire Contact the show: email: [email protected] Twitter: @beammeuppod Instagram: @beammeuppod Website: beammeuppod.com Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/beammeuppod) Head over to beammeupgiveaway.com to be entered into our giveaway for this month.  Right now, you can enter a Super Cool prize.  We would love to own it.  But we can't, so you might as well.  You can enter multiple ways every day. So be sure to come back frequently. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/beammeuppod) About the Show: Matt doesn't know anything about Star Trek.  Brent has been a Trekkie for over 20 years, having watched every episode and movie multiple times. Join Matt as he explores for the first time why is Trek the Cultural Phenomenon that it is today.  Relive all those early moment when you first watched Trek.  But since there are over 760+ hours of Star Trek, Brent's task will be to find the best 150 or so that best represent what Star Trek is, the story of Star Trek, and paint Gene Roddenberry's vision of the Future.  Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/beammeuppod) Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/beammeuppod) Support the show

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Published Nov 28, 2021

Julian Bashir Helped Me Make Trek My Own

For some fans, Bashir serves as a metaphor for the trans experience.

StarTrek.com

This article was originally published on June 24, 2020.

You can’t discuss LGBTQ+ representation in Star Trek without mentioning Elim Garak and Dr. Julian Bashir of Deep Space Nine . I knew that much going into my first viewing of the series last year, having finally reached the end of my rope when it came to not understanding the lengthy discussions on the show between my friends on social media. While one of my friends rightly predicted Bashir and Garak’s relationship would immediately grab me, I couldn’t anticipate how important Bashir by himself would become. He was already an early favorite, but as the series unfolded, I recognized my experiences and anxieties as a transmasculine person in how Bashir navigated his genetic enhancement. The specific language and stigmas surrounding Augments in Star Trek ’s society were so familiar that once I began connecting the dots, I couldn’t easily see Bashir as anything other than a transgender man.

The metaphor connecting genetic enhancement and Augments to the transgender experience is admittedly messy, given the former’s central role in wars which killed over half a billion people, and the dark history of eugenics in our real world. Additionally, three hundred years removed from these conflicts, Jack, Lauren, Patrick, and Sarina — the four institutionalized Augments first introduced to Bashir in season six —  would themselves benefit from a lens of disability more than queerness. It is in the greater context of Bashir’s character arc where the multiple angles are clearer; what is specifically involved in genetic enhancement and the ethical implications surrounding it, while not unimportant, are less the focus here than how it functions for Bashir himself and within the narrative as a whole.

When Bashir’s status as an Augment is first revealed in “Doctor Bashir, I Presume,” the concern is not war, but rather how Khan’s legacy has translated into a severe societal stigma. At the beginning of the episode (and, retroactively, in previous seasons) he is effectively closeted to Starfleet and the station as a whole; he is allowed to exist unencumbered as he does because he can pass as normal.

The closet, as it relates to sexuality and gender identity, is a familiar space for queer people, and passing is a prevalent concept among trans people -— a trans man is said to “pass” when strangers assume he is a cisgender man. While Bashir’s closeting is more generally queer-coded, genetic enhancement has more parallels with a post-transition transgender experience. Both change one’s physical body as a means to a specific end, and it is those changes which he is hiding. The DNA of Augments has been resequenced in order to grant higher levels brain function, stamina, and coordination; trans people who opt to transition physically use hormones and surgery to effect changes aligning with their gender.

This means that both an Augment and trans people’s bodies are non-normative and evoke accusations of fraud or being unnatural, as Bashir calls himself in a conversation with O’Brien. The intellect that allowed him to rise in prominence as a doctor was not present at his birth, therefore he is a fraud. The gender of a trans man was not the one assigned at his birth, therefore he is not a real man. The internalized weight of those stigmas speak the same refrains.

The consequences of Bashir being outed as an Augment further parallel common trans experiences. Having this known about him could upend and completely ruin the life he built for himself — stripped of his position in Starfleet and his medical license, he would lose his livelihood, potentially his residence on Deep Space Nine, and the support network of his colleagues. For trans people, that risk is all too familiar. In the United States, less than half of states count gender identity as a protected class, so coming out publicly carries a real risk of job loss and eviction alongside being ostracized by loved ones, even with June’s Supreme Court ruling on LGBTQ+ civil rights. The forces keeping Bashir and trans people in the closet foster a sharp disconnect between the life one is living and the truth of who one is.

That disconnect, of not being able to share such an integral part of oneself for fear of reprisal, can also create a deep sense of loneliness. “Statistical Probabilities,” the episode that first introduces the group of Augments from the institution, opens on a scene that underscores the loneliness in Bashir’s life. He tries to find a friend to spend time with at Quark’s or the holosuites and they are all busy with partners and families, neither of which Bashir has. His first meeting with Jack, Lauren, Patrick, and Sarina takes place soon afterward, and it doesn’t take long for them to accept that Bashir is one of their own —and Bashir thrives off it and their burgeoning camaraderie. In his “coming out” conversation with O’Brien in season five, Bashir disparaged himself as a “freak” or “monster” because of his genetic enhancements; but when he presents the Augments’ wartime intelligence analysis to Sisko, his enthusiasm is barely contained as he eagerly includes himself among their ranks, making liberal use of “we” and “people like us.” For the first time, he is able to find joy in a part of himself because he has found community, a circumstance not foreign to the queer experience.

Community and pride in one’s difference still doesn’t negate the isolation arising from it. The dinner Bashir shares with the station crew in “Statistical Probabilities” is a textbook example of microaggressions. O’Brien even trots out a classic “what about the children” argument about parents feeling pressured to genetically enhance their children if Augments were allowed to participate in society, shifting his earlier personal anxiety (“Makes us all look bad!”) into a more acceptable concern for the vulnerable. This tactic is widely used in transphobic discourse as well; it’s never that someone hates trans people,  they just don’t want a trans woman using the same restroom as their young daughter, or they’re concerned that overeager parents will pressure their children to transition. It’s never explicitly about their own prejudices— it’s more difficult to argue against a point framed as benefiting the welfare of children.

Interestingly, most of the discussion the crew has doesn’t touch on Khan or WWIII, rather focusing on how societal norms would be disrupted without the laws that keep those like Jack and Lauren institutionalized. They’re as concerned about maintaining their order of the world as transphobes are about the inflexibility of binary gender. The insistence that neither of these groups can cohesively integrate into larger society creates a self-fulfilling prophecy.

When the Augments impersonate Starfleet personnel in season seven in order to board the station, Sisko is livid about their “flagrant disregard for the rules society lives by” — rules which, Bashir reminds him, belong to a society they are not allowed to live in. Already institutionalized, an Augment like Jack might not see any reason to care about the consequences of impersonating an officer. Similarly, a 2015 study found nearly 70% of trans sex workers entered the trade after transphobia pushed them out of legal means of employment. Trans people and Augments are punished for daring to exist at all, then punished further for continuing to do so with as little respect for mores as society paid them in the first place. Yet all this does not readily apply to Bashir. After all, as Worf insists at dinner, Bashir is the exception. Bashir is allowed to live a “normal life” among his peers. Bashir can pass.

Even before the genetic enhancement plot debuted, Bashir’s trans loneliness could be said to have manifested in other ways, specifically in how relentlessly he pursued Dax in earlier seasons. Already upheld by fans as a landmark of queer representation for the same-sex kiss in season four’s “Rejoined,” Dax also canonically exists as a genderfluid character due to the nature of the Trill. In Deep Space Nine’s premiere, Dax’s host shifts from Curzon to Jadzia, a transition of physical bodies and also of gender. This colors her interactions with those who knew Curzon before: Sisko affectionately calls Jadzia “old man,” and Curzon’s Klingon friends call upon her to help fulfill his blood oath. Jadzia and Curzon are treated simultaneously as the same yet different people, tracing the through-line connecting them while recognizing their discrete identities, just as one might with a trans person who has transitioned.

In the earlier seasons, with his need to stay closeted and the repressed self-loathing later revealed to O’Brien, Bashir is undoubtedly under intense internal strain. It’s then when he meets Jadzia, who outwardly displays all the confidence in the quadrant. On the surface his dogged flirting comes across as a generic expression of heterosexual desire, but reading Bashir as a trans man through his Augment status complicates this. While of course he could be drawn based on physical attraction, he could also be searching for connection based on shared experience, or even a search for guidance. Jadzia, being the eighth Dax host, has gone through significant changes of self many times already, transitioning genders in half of them.

Bashir’s pre and post-transition senses of self lie in the child he was versus the man he is now. He even arguably has what the trans community calls a deadname, a birth name that is no longer used in favor of a chosen name that better reflects someone’s gender. In an argument with his parents in season five, Bashir reveals he stopped going by the nickname his parents used, Jules, as a teenager after he learned he was an Augment. When his parents finally address him as Julian, it’s framed as a healing moment where they finally see Bashir for who he says he is instead of who they wished he would be. The reconciliation of different identities that Dax is adept in solving comes much later and with much more difficulty for Bashir, and he perceives her self-assurance as a beacon.

While he never does enter into a romantic relationship with Jadzia, these connections crop up again in two other of his relationships down the line. In season seven’s “Chrysalis,” Bashir’s short-lived whirlwind romance with fellow Augment Sarina is based entirely in the joy of being seen for who he is without having to explain himself. He tells O’Brien that it’s something he has long fantasized about, being with someone like himself and living a normal life, and he is devastated when he moves too fast and they are forced to break it off. There is a sense of inopportune timing in both relationships regarding where each of them is in their lives: the “trans elder” Jadzia is not at all the right match for a closeted Bashir, nor is a Bashir that has been out for a few years a good fit for Sarina, who is just learning how to live outside an institution.

With Ezri Dax, everything aligns more evenly. The slapdash changing of hosts upon Jadzia’s death meant that Ezri was not prepared to take on the Dax symbiont, and as a result, she has visible trouble keeping track of all of the personalities in her head and which memories belong to her or them. At times, this extends to the gender she senses herself to be— combined with her androgynous presentation, Ezri is more explicitly genderfluid than Jadzia or any other Trill onscreen. The manifestation of her gender alongside the isolation that came with being the new Dax among a crew still actively mourning Jadzia puts her on a similar state of uneven footing with Bashir. Both alone due to aspects of who they are and both, in this reading, trans, their relationship is far from a staple heterosexual romance, finding solace in their shared margins.

Very little of this can be called textual — it is not the explicit kind of representation found in Discovery or Picard , but seeing oneself in a character even when that reading was unintended can be just as important. There is a special kind of power in seeing something that was not made for you, and still pointing at it saying, “This is mine now.” It is forcibly making space where there was none, and it is not the type of space that can be taken away. Sorting out my gender has been a years-long process, never quite landing in any one spot for too long. But by the time I finished Deep Space Nine ’s series finale, what had once been a foreboding question mark hanging over my head started to solidify into something legible. While I cannot say Bashir is the sole reason for that, he certainly played a role, if only by allowing me the space to start to define it myself.

Haden Cross (he/they) is a writer based in the Washington, DC area who has never learned how to love things by halves.

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Star Trek: Deep Space Nine – Doctor Julian Bashir by EXO-6

By Joe Moore on March 13, 2024 at 8:10 am under Star Trek Toy News

EXO-6 has updated with pre-orders for their latest Star Trek figure. They have revealed the upcoming Star Trek: Deep Space Nine – Doctor Julian Bashir 1/6 Scale Figure . The Doctor Bashir figure will stand at 11.8″ tall, with 30 points of articulation, and a detailed fabric Starfleet uniform. The figure includes multipel interchangeable hands, a Type II hand phaser, Hypospray, a Medical Tricorder, a PADD, and a display stand.

Doctor Bashir is priced at $195.99 plush shipping. It’s scheduled to ship to customers in the Third Quarter of 2024. You can see pre-order links, images, and full product details below.

Pre-Order Links: Entertainment Earth • Big Bad Toy Store

Star Trek: Deep Space Nine – Doctor Julian Bashir 1:6 Scale Articulated Figure “I prefer to confront mortality, rather than hide from it” Introducing the EXO-6 Dr. Julian Bashir 1/6 Scale Museum Quality Figure – a meticulously crafted tribute to one of Star Trek’s most beloved characters. As the chief medical officer aboard Deep Space 9, Dr. Julian Bashir’s charm, intelligence, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of his fellow crew members have made him an iconic figure in the Star Trek universe. Now, you can bring the essence of this remarkable character into your collection with our exquisite 1/6 scale figure, capturing every detail of Bashir’s distinctive features and Starfleet uniform. This 1:6-scale figure re-creates this iconic character in exquisite 1:6 detail. Standing approximately 12 inches tall, no detail was spared in reproducing his outfit and accessories as authentically as possible. Crafted with a keen eye for detail, this figure stands at 12 inches tall and features over 30 points of articulation, allowing you to pose Dr. Bashir in a multitude of lifelike positions. The included accessories, such as his medical tricorder and hypo spray, further enhance the figure’s authenticity, bringing to life those memorable moments from Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. The EXO-6 Doctor Bashir 1:6 Scale Articulated Figure includes: Fully Articulated Body: More than 30 points of articulation allow the figure to be displayed in multiple dynamic poses, approximately 30 cm tall. Realistic Portrait: The portrait sculpt of Alexander Siddig as Julian Bashir is beautifully sculpted with an authentic likeness. It is specially hand-painted. Starfleet Duty Uniform: Meticulously researched, this duty uniform matches the pattern and color of the original costume as seen from season 5 on, recreated in sixth scale. Lieutenant pips are permanently attached to the collar and a non-removeable DS9 com badge is affixed to the chest.  Magnets are sewn into the jumpsuit so the holsters for the tricorder and phaser can be attached. Boots: Soft plastic boots sculpted to match the cut and style of the original footwear. Hands: A total of seven interchangeable hands are included so he can be displayed holding his accessories. Display Base: A hexagonal display base featuring the transporter pad will provide additional support for the figure. Two different inserts for the floor of the base can represent the transporter pad or the center of the transporter array. Autograph card: An informational card that can be used to get an autograph from the performer and displayed with your figure. Equipment Lt. Bashir is outfitted with everything needed for a Star Fleet medical officer. He comes equipped with: Type II hand phaser. The phaser can be worn in a black holster that magnetically attaches to his jumpsuit. Hypospray: Includes 3 differently colored vials. Medical Tricorder: This tricorder includes a removeable scanner that fits in the back of the tricorder. It can be folded up and worn in a holster. PADD (Personal Access Display Device): the data display device used onboard Deep Space 9. EXO-6’s commitment to the variety and number of characters in Star Trek is unparalleled. Never before and never again will fans be able to own such high-end collectible figures covering such a wide expanse of the Star Trek universe. Act now to ensure you have the ultimate Star Trek collectibles before they disappear, never to return.

EXO 6 Star Trek DS9 Dr. Bashir 001

EXO 6 Star Trek DS9 Dr. Bashir 002

EXO 6 Star Trek DS9 Dr. Bashir 003

EXO 6 Star Trek DS9 Dr. Bashir 004

EXO 6 Star Trek DS9 Dr. Bashir 005

EXO 6 Star Trek DS9 Dr. Bashir 006

EXO 6 Star Trek DS9 Dr. Bashir 007

EXO 6 Star Trek DS9 Dr. Bashir 008

EXO 6 Star Trek DS9 Dr. Bashir 009

EXO 6 Star Trek DS9 Dr. Bashir 010

Companies EXO-6 Characters Doctor Julian Bashir Scale 1/6

Den of Geek

Star Trek Easter Egg Calls Back to a Forgotten Deep Space Nine Episode

The latest episode of Star Trek: Discovery does a less corny version of a goofy classic from Deep Space Nine.

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This Star Trek: Discovery article contains spoilers.

Star Trek: Deep Space Nine earned its position as a favorite series among fans because of its more complex take on the franchise’s themes, thrusting the United Federation of Planets into a huge war that tested its moral compass time and again. But even at the height of the Dominion War, DS9 also found time to follow Jake and Nog’s search for a baseball card and to check in on a holographic Rat Pack lounge singer.

But even within that wide range of possibilities, the season three episode “Facets” stands out as an oddball. Written by René Echevarria and directed by Cliff Bole, “Facets” introduced the Zhian’tara ritual, through which Trill hosts find closure for their symbiotes by spreading host personalities to others.

Although “Facets” isn’t exactly a “Sub Rosa” level embarrassment, it is a weird episode that mostly went unmentioned in the larger canon until Discovery reintroduced the Zhian’tara ritual in the season four episode “Choose to Live.” In that episode, the Guardians of Trill use the ritual to separate Grey from the Tal symbiote carried by Adira and into a Soong-style golem. As usual for Discovery , writer Terri Hughes Burton and director Christopher J. Byrne emphasized the emotional over the goofy, not invoking the sillier parts of the idea.

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That’s not the case for this week’s Disco season five episode “ Jinaal .” When Burnham and Book’s search for the secret of the Progenitors brings them to Trill, they find a guide in the form of Jinaal Bix, a host from 800 years ago. Through Zhian’tara, Bix allows Jinaal to embody Dr. Culber, who takes the duo to the next clue.

The stakes of “Facets” weren’t quite so high, and fittingly, neither was the episode’s tone. Jadzia sends the minds of the previous Dax hosts to Quark, Bashir, Leeta, O’Brien, Odo, Kira, and Sisko, who all take on new personalities. O’Brien becomes nervy and scared when Tobin possesses him, while the maternal Audrid softens Quark’s hard edges. The murderous Joran transforms Sisko into a Hannibal Lecter type, making malevolent observations through an invisible holding cell wall.

The most outrageous of the transformations involves, fittingly enough, the shape-shifter Odo, who takes on the identity of Jadzia’s most immediate predecessor Curzon. Although a gregarious man in his life and a close friend to Sisko and the Klingon Martok, Curzon’s joi de vivre makes him selfish, fighting to hold on to his new life. Due to his shape-changing abilities, Odo undergoes a more thorough transformation, as he and Curzon blend into a single being. This new being happens to look a lot like Odo performer René Auberjonois , giving the actor a chance to work with less make-up.

Culber’s transformation isn’t quite so dramatic. The change to Jinaal gives Culber’s actor Wilson Cruz the opportunity to be a swaggering charmer instead of the empathetic physician he usually plays, as well as the opportunity to compliment his own (admittedly very impressive) physique.

Unlike Culber, Auberjonois and Avery Brooks (Sisko) go hard into playing off-beat characters. Never one for subtlety, Brooks chews all the scenery available to him as the evil genius Joran. He never makes for a credible threat (contrast his presence to that of Brad Dourif’s killer ensign Lon Suder in Voyager ), but he is fun to watch.

Likewise, Auberjonois takes advantage of having his face freed from most of the make up he wore on DS9 to mug at every opportunity. Drawing from his many years on stage, Auberjonois exaggerates every gesture. It’s not quite as obnoxious as Brent Spiner ‘s performance in “Masks,” The Next Generation ‘s spiritual predecessor to “Facets,” but it does feel like it comes from a different show.

Which isn’t always a bad thing. Every Trek series has dabbled in other genres, from the gangster episode “A Piece of the Action” on The Original Series to the zombie thriller “Impulse” on Enterprise . Discovery continues that tradition with its current season and episodes like “Jinaal,” showing that Star Trek can handle a wide range of tones, and even get really goofy.

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Star Trek: Discovery is streaming now on Paramount+.

Joe George | @jageorgeii

Joe George’s writing has appeared at Slate, Polygon, Tor.com, and elsewhere!

Christopher Collins' 4 Star Trek Roles Explained

• Christopher Collins portrayed multiple characters in Star Trek, including Captain Kargan and Captain Grebnedlog in TNG.
• Collins' portrayal of Markalian Durg in DS9 showed his diverse acting range in the Star Trek universe.
• Despite his brief appearances, Collins made a lasting impact on the franchise with his various roles.

Actor and stand-up comedian Christopher Collins played four different Star Trek characters in episodes of Star Trek: The Next Generation and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine . In TNG's "Matter of Honor," Collins appeared as the Klingon Captain Kargan, who butted heads with his temporary First Officer, Commander William Riker (Jonathan Frakes). Collins played another Captain in TNG's "Samaritan Snare," this time a Pakled named Grebnedlog. In DS9 , Collins appeared as Markalians in both of his appearances, one of whom was a mercenary named Durg, while the other was an unnamed guard.

Christopher Collins was an actor and comedian most known for his voice-over roles in animated projects. He provided the voice for Cobra Commander in several different versions of the animated G.I. Joe series. He also voiced Starscream and numerous other characters in the first Transformers animated series. In addition to his Star Trek appearances, Collins appeared in episodes of Doogie Howser, M.D., Seinfeld, NYPD Blue, and Married... with Children . He had a few minor film roles, including appearances in Road House, True Identity, and A Stranger Among Us . Collins also had a successful career in stand-up comedy and won the San Francisco International Stand-Up Comedy Competition in 1990. Tragically, Collins passed away in 1994 at the age of 44.

Christopher Collins originated the voice of Mr. Burns on The Simpsons , but had to turn over the role to Harry Shearer after only a few episodes. Shearer modeled his performance on that of Collins.

Every Upcoming Star Trek Movie & TV Show

Captain kargan, star trek: the next generation season 2, episode 8 - "a matter of honor".

In Star Trek: The Next Generation 's "Matter of Honor," Commander Will Riker (Jonathan Frakes) participates in an officer exchange program and takes on the role of First Officer on the Klingon vessel, the Pagh. Christopher Collins portrays the Klingon commander of the Pagh, Captain Kargan, who is suspicious of Riker from the jump. When a strange bacteria is discovered on the Pagh's outer hull, Kargan suspects Captain Jean-Luc Picard (Patrick Stewart) and the USS Enterprise-D are responsible.

"A Matter of Honor" updated the Klingons for TNG and established their culture moving forward.

When Kargan refuses to listen to his temporary First Officer, Riker has Kargan beamed over to the Enterprise and takes over command of the Pagh. After the Enterprise helps repair the Pagh, Kargan returns to his ship and dismisses Riker for being insubordinate. Still, it's clear Kargan has developed a certain amount of respect for Riker, despite all of his Klingon bluster. With its depictions of life aboard a Klingon ship, "A Matter of Honor" updated the Klingons for TNG and established their culture moving forward.

Captain Grebnedlog

Star trek: the next generation season 2, episode 17 - "samaritan snare".

Christopher Collins' next Star Trek appearance came later in Star Trek: The Next Generation season 2 when he played Captain Grebnedlog, the commander of the Pakled ship Mondor. As Captain Picard heads to a nearby starbase for a medical procedure, Commander Riker is left in command of the USS Enterprise-D. The Enterprise soon receives a distress call from the Mondor, and Captain Grebnedlog tells Riker and his crew that the unintelligent Pakleds need help to make their ship go.

Commander Riker sends Lt. Geordi La Forge (LeVar Burton) over to help with repairs, but the Pakleds soon take Geordi as a hostage. While Grebnedlog and his crew may not be very intelligent, they have managed to gain technology by stealing it from other species. Riker makes some questionable decisions in "Samaritan Snare," but he does trick the Pakleds into releasing La Forge in the end.

The Pakleds did not appear on screen again until the animated Star Trek: Lower Decks , where their ridiculous but sometimes dangerous antics are a much better fit.

Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Season 1, Episode 9 - "The Passenger"

In Star Trek: Deep Space Nine’s “The Passenger,” Christopher Collins played Durg, a Markalian mercenary who met with the profit-hungry Ferengi Quark (Armin Shimerman). When a criminal Kobliad named Rao Vantika (James Harper) transfers his consciousness to Dr. Julian Bashir (Alexander Siddig), he employs Durg to help him steal a shipment of deuridium. Durg and his fellow mercenaries attack the freighter transporting the deuridium, the Norkova, killing the bridge crew and taking control of the ship.

The crew of space station Deep Space Nine then trap the Norkova with a tractor beam, but Vantika continues to try to escape. Still inhabiting the body of Dr. Bashir , Vantika orders Durg to jump to warp speed (which would destroy the freighter), but he refuses. Vantika then kills Durg, before Commander Benjamin Sisko (Avery Brooks) and Lt. Jadzia Dax (Terry Farrell) figure out a way to communicate with Bashir and resolve the situation.

Unnamed Markalian Guard

Star trek: deep space nine season 2, episode 19 - "blood oath".

Christopher Collins played another member of the Markalian species in DS9’s “Blood Oath. This Markalian served as an assistant and guard for the infamous criminal known as The Albino (Bill Bolender). Many years before, three Klingon warships were dispatched to capture the Albino, and while they managed to destroy his base, the Albino himself escaped. These three Klingon ships were led by Kor (John Colicos) , Koloth (William Campbell), and Kang (Michael Ansara). The Albino later retaliated by killing each of the Klingon’s firstborn sons, which prompted them to swear a blood oath to kill the Albino.

Kor, Koloth, and Kang all appeared as Klingons on Star Trek: The Original Series , and all three actors reprise their respective roles.

The three Klingons arrive on Deep Space Nine eighty-one years later, after Kang reveals he has discovered the Albino’s location. With the help of Jadzia Dax (whose former symbiote Curzon was godfather to Kang’s son), the three Klingons attack the Albino. After alerting the Albino to the presence of the Klingons, the guard is ultimately killed by Kang while the Albino cowers behind him. Although Kang manages to kill the Albino, he and Koloth both die from their wounds. With the three boisterous Klingons stealing the show, Collins’ Markalian guard does not make as much of an impression, but he nevertheless left his mark on the Star Trek franchise.

Star Trek: The Next Generation

Cast Michael Dorn, LeVar Burton, Brent Spiner, Wil Wheaton, Jonathan Frakes, Patrick Stewart, Marina Sirtis, Gates McFadden

Release Date September 28, 1987

Writers Jeri Taylor, Michael Piller, Rick Berman, Brannon Braga, Ronald D. Moore

Showrunner Jeri Taylor, Michael Piller, Rick Berman

Where To Watch Paramount+

Star Trek: Deep Space Nine

Cast Terry Farrell, Cirroc Lofton, Rene Auberjonois, Nicole de Boer, Michael Dorn, Andrew Robinson, Nana Visitor, Avery Brooks, Colm Meaney, Armin Shimerman, Alexander Siddig

Release Date January 3, 1993

Writers Ira Steven Behr, Michael Piller, Ronald D. Moore

Showrunner Ira Steven Behr, Michael Piller

• April 12, 2024 | Interview: Wilson Cruz On How “Jinaal” Sets Up The Rest Of The Season For Culber On ‘Star Trek: Discovery’
• April 12, 2024 | ‘Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’ Renewed For Season 4; ‘Lower Decks’ To End With Season 5
• April 12, 2024 | Podcast: All Access Goes To Trill With ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ For “Jinaal”
• April 11, 2024 | Paramount Pictures Officially Confirms Star Trek Origin Movie For Its Upcoming Film Slate
• April 11, 2024 | Recap/Review: ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ Tries Too Many Connections In “Jinaal”

Review: The EXO-6 ‘Star Trek: Deep Space Nine’ 1:6 Odo Figure Is The Shape of Things To Come

| April 9, 2024 | By: Jeff Bond 7 comments so far

Constable Odo 1/6 Scale Action Figure

Manufacturer: EXO-6 Price: $215 Grade: A+

Way back in the no-man’s land between the release of Star Trek: The Motion Picture and The Wrath of Khan , when it briefly looked like there might be no more Star Trek movies and there hadn’t been a new Star Trek TV show since the 1973 animated series, I had a weird dream one night that there was a new Star Trek series on the air and one of the actors in it was René Auberjonois. At the time I knew Auberjonois from his performances in the 1976 King Kong remake and The Eyes of Laura Mars (where he did an uncanny impression of Lloyd Bridges using only his face).

What I didn’t imagine was that Auberjonois would indeed appear in a new Star Trek show a decade or so later—but his face would be covered by a thick layer of latex makeup and he would be playing an alien shapeshifter named Odo. Like Spock, Data, and later characters like Seven of Nine and Saru, Odo was part of the Star Trek formula that dictated an alien “other” character was always needed to provide an outsider perspective on humanity. A holdover from the Cardassian’s shepherding of their space station Terok Nor, Odo retained his job as a security officer to become Deep Space Nine’s “constable”—a sheriff who keeps a close eye on the denizens that live on and visit DS9, particularly his arch nemesis, the Ferengi Quark. Odo can use his shapeshifting abilities to impersonate other beings or even disguise himself as inanimate objects—all a boon to his work maintaining law and order on the station.

René Auberjonois as Constable Odo in a Deep Space Nine publicity photo (Paramount)

Odo’s origins were initially mysterious, even to himself (in one first season episode after chasing what he’d thought to be a clue to his background, a lonely Odo gazes out into space from a runabout and ponders, “Home…where is it?”). Eventually, he discovers that he’s part of the race of the Founders, dangerous “changelings” and founders of the Dominion, a warlike confederation of races that threatens the Federation. Odo consequently finds himself torn between loyalty to his friends on DS9 and the race that gave birth to him. Auberjonois, a reliable and effective character actor, gave Odo a gruff, no-nonsense personality that set him off from DS9’s mix of hotheads, pious clerics, and very human Starfleet officers. He figured in some tremendous storylines, although I wish the show hadn’t gone in the direction of putting him and Major Kira—two of the strongest characters in the series—in a standard romance that ultimately weakened both of them.

René Auberjonois as Constable Odo in “What You Left Behind” (Paramount)

EXO-6 Odo Figure

EXO-6’s Deep Space Nine line of 12” action figures has been absolutely stellar in its quality, and Odo might just be the best release yet. One might think that capturing Odo’s deliberately featureless prosthetic makeup would be a breeze, but it actually seems more like a trap as the proportions of the character’s face come off as deliberately vague and confusing due to the makeup. Sculptor Dean Tolliver pulls off the assignment flawlessly, from Odo’s prim, downturned mouth to his piercing, deep-set eyes.

EXO-6 DS9 Odo figure

One big challenge to these characters is hair—it has to be molded into the one-piece head sculpt which often gives the entire character a plastic, doll-like sheen. Odo’s hair even in the series has an uncanny, sleek appearance that lends itself well to this kind of reproduction—there’s a very fine seam bisecting the head, something you can catch with careful examination on this and some other EXO figures, but it mostly disappears within the hair sculpture, and that’s really the only minor flaw (if you can call it that) in the figure.

Odo’s clothes are of drab and utilitarian Bajoran make, almost allowing him to disappear among the brown and bronze arches of the space station’s promenade, and the figure captures the cut of the uniform, its Bajoran insignia, belt and boots perfectly.

If you watch the series, you know that Odo doesn’t roll with standard Starfleet weaponry—he’s his own weapon, with the ability to turn his arms into whiplike tendrils or any other shape that might come in handy to subdue a scofflaw. Odo comes with the standard Starfleet PADD and a tricorder, but this figure boasts two more-character-based accessories that really set this release off and required a larger-than-normal collectors box. One accessory is Odo’s “bucket”—a metallic container that the shapeless being relaxes inside in liquid form after a hard day’s crime-fighting. EXO also includes a spectacular clear vinyl sculpture of Odo in mid-transformation, congealing upwards from a puddle on the floor, his arms folded and his distinctive features starting to take shape.

Bucket and shape-shifting accessories for EXO-6 DS9 Odo figure

These accessories make Odo’s display footprint about twice the size of a normal EXO-6 figure, but it’s worth it, especially since at $215 he’s in line with most of the other DS9 figure price points.

Odo was released today and is available now at EX0-6.com .  This is another spectacular figure release from EXO-6 and since they tend to sell out quickly, you’d be well advised to order ASAP.

The Odo figure is part of EXO-6’s Star Trek: Deep Space Nine collection. Quark and Sisko have already sold out. The Kira figure [ see TrekMovie’s review ] is still available. Dr. Julian Bashir is next in line , but the pre-order period has already sold out.

Upcoming EXO-6 Dr. Bashir figure

A closer look at Odo

Jeff Bond is a freelance writer and book author who’s addicted to plastic models and action figures. You can catch up with him on  Facebook  and  Instagram  where he posts model works in progress, and takes commissions. His latest Star Trek book is  Star Trek: The Motion Picture: The Art and Visual Effects .

Find more Star Trek merchandise news and reviews at TrekMovie.com .

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Incredible detail, the greatest representation….

Finally, an EXO sculpt that actually looks like the character.

Kind of funny that it’s the one with a deliberately featureless messed up face.

Wow. I sold my TMP Kirk and Spock due to the poor likenesses.

But this actually looks really good. Maybe….

Gotta admit, this IS a good one! 🫤 If only I had the bars of latinum… 😒💸

This looks absolutely fabulous!! 😍

Well done. These are so well done. Not surprised they keep selling out.

I sure hope Hiya Toys can give us a diverse range of Star Trek figures drawing from the entire legacy of Star Trek like Exo-6 is doing here. Playmates has certainly dropped the ball but I still have faith that a good quality line could be a success. I hope unlike Playmates, Hiya will take fan’s comments and input into consideration like Exo-6 is also doing. We fans like feeling like we have some say in the thought process of creating a line and being appreciated by the teams responsible for developing products like this and Playmates just took all our patronage for granted.

Screen Rant

How star trek: discovery's trill ritual connects to ds9's dax.

The next clue in Star Trek: Discovery season 5's treasure hunt relies on a Trill ritual connected to Jadzia Dax on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.

Warning: SPOILERS for Star Trek: Discovery season 5, episode 3 - "Jinaal"

• The latest clue in Star Trek: Discovery leads to a Trill symbiont named Jinaal Bix, creating a link to the Progenitors' life-creating technology.
• The zhian'tara ritual allows past Trill hosts to temporarily live through willing volunteers, offering insight into the nature of consciousness.
• The Trill's belief in the separation of mind and body may hold keys to understanding the Progenitors' technology and the origin of sentient life.

The search for the latest clue in Star Trek: Discovery season 5's treasure hunt involves a Trill ritual first seen with Lt. Commander Jadzia Dax (Terry Farrell) on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine . 800 years before Star Trek: Discovery 's 32nd century, Romulan scientist Dr. Vellek (Michael Copeland) laid the clues that will ultimately lead to the life-creating technology of the Progenitors. In Star Trek: Discovery season 5, episode 3, "Jinaal", written by Kyle Jarrow and Lauren Wilkinson and directed by Andi Armaganian, Vellek's latest clue leads to Trill, so that's where Captain Michael Burnham (Sonequa Martin-Green) and the USS Discovery crew hope to find the next piece of the puzzle.

Star Trek: Discovery season 5, episode 3 's clue points specifically to a 24th-century Trill symbiont host named Jinaal Bix. Fortunately, the Bix symbiont is still alive, so everything Jinaal knew lives on in Bix's current host, Kalzara Bix (Clare Coulter). The only wrinkle is that Michael Burnham, Cleveland Booker (David Ajala), and Dr. Hugh Culber (Wilson Cruz) must speak to the long-dead individual host Jinaal directly, and not the joined entity of Kalzara Bix. This seems impossible, but with the help of Dr. Culber volunteering as temporary host, there's a specific Trill ritual from Star Trek: Deep Space Nine that can actually make that happen: zhian'tara.

Star Trek: Discovery Reminds Us DS9 Made Dax Cool Because Trills Are Weird

What is zhian'tara discovery & ds9's trill ritual explained, past trill hosts can temporarily live again..

Zhian'tara is the Trill ritual which allows the consciousness of a symbiont's past hosts to be temporarily transferred into willing volunteers. DS9 's Jadzia Dax undergoes zhian'tara in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine season 3, episode 25, "Facets", with the rest of DS9 's regular cast embodying all of Dax's previous hosts . While the past hosts' minds occupy living volunteers, those memories are no longer part of the symbiont, and inaccessible to the current host. Volunteers' minds are suppressed, but still aware, since Quark (Armin Shimerman) is able to break through Audrid Dax to complain, and Dr. Culber remarks on the curious nature of being present in his own body with Jinaal.

The Trill Symbiosis Commission considers the zhian'tara ritual a mandatory part of being a joined Trill, since the symbionts are venerated as keepers of Trill history. In a typical zhian'tara, like Dax's in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine , the current Trill host is expected to meet and interact with their past hosts in order to better understand themselves and where they fall along the chain of individuals that make up a symbiont's lifetime. The concept of transferring consciousnesses via zhian'tara, and the fact the temporary hosts need not be Trill, has far reaching implications on the nature of consciousness and the mind's connection to the physical body in Star Trek .

Prior to "Jinaal", an aytpical zhian'tara was used in Star Trek: Discovery season 4, episode 3, "Choose to Live", to permanently transfer the consciousness of Gray Tal (Ian Alexander) from the Tal symbiont into a synthetic body.

The Trill Connection To Star Trek: Discovery's Progenitor Technology

The trill know something that other star trek cultures don't..

It's probably no accident that a Trill was on the team that the 24th-century Federation President tasked with uncovering the mysteries of the Progenitors' technology. At the end of Star Trek: Discovery season 5, episode 3, "Jinaal", Burnham and Culber discuss how Jinaal can possess Culber's body from a scientific perspective, and conclude that "some things are unknowable", but the Trill themselves have no such questions. It's a matter of fact in Trill culture that the mind is uncoupled from the body, and symbionts are biological storage for previous hosts' souls, while also being independently sentient. That's important when digging deep into how the origin of sentient life.

If the Progenitors' technology is capable of creating life, does it merely build the physical bodies as empty vessels awaiting the spark of life, or is Progenitor technology able to create souls from scratch, too? There must be a reason Star Trek: Discovery is using the Trill to lay the groundwork for the ultimate reveal , when similar practices exist in other Star Trek cultures, like the Vulcan ability to place one's katra with another individual. With the Progenitors behind the existence of all sentient humanoid life in Star Trek , Star Trek: Discovery may come to the conclusion that it isn't just biology that unites us, but our souls as well.

New episodes of Star Trek: Discovery stream Thursdays on Paramount+.

Star Trek: Discovery