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Characters / Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country

Edit locked, for characters who debuted in star trek: the original series , see characters.star trek the original series.

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Enterprise Crew

Lieutenant valeris.

Played by: Kim Cattrall

Dubbed in french by: laurence crouzet.

• Famous for Being First : She was the first Vulcan to graduate at the top of her class at Starfleet Academy.
• Knight Templar : She thinks she's saving the Federation by sabotaging peace talks.
• Meaningful Name : Her name is derived from Eris, the Ancient Greek goddess of strife.
• The Paragon Always Rebels : Being Spock's protégé and valedictorian of her class would certainly be admirable, if not for her turning traitor and joining a conspiracy to instigate a full-scale war between the Federation and the Klingons.
• Remember the New Guy? : Because Gene Roddenbery wouldn't have Saavik as evil.
• Sucksessor : A variation, since aside from the whole bit about being a traitor and a murderer she's actually an extremely competent officer.
• Suspiciously Similar Substitute : For Lt. Saavik from films II-IV, plus Commander Xon from the unmade Star Trek: Phase II TV series, in that they're both Vulcans who are set up to succeed Spock.
• Tempting Fate : She suggests serving Romulan Ale during the meal with the Klingons, which given the underlying tensions between the two peoples and the extreme strength of Romulan Ale, goes over about as well as you'd expect. Of course, this is part of a Xanatos Gambit to make it later look like Kirk attacked Gorkon's ship in a moment of drunken rage.

Yeomen Burke and Samno

Played by: bj davis and alan marcus.

• Fantastic Racism : Freely expressed when the main cast are out of earshot.
• Gas Mask Mooks : They wear engineering suits complete with face-concealing masked helmets when they board Kronos One for the assassination.
• Those Two Guys : Who assassinate Chancellor Gorkon.
• You Have Outlived Your Usefulness : Found dead after the assassination. Kirk: First rule of assassinations: kill the assassins.

Crewman Dax

Played by: michael snyder.

• Bizarre Alien Biology : Nice feet, buddy!
• Fall Guy : One of the missing mag-boots was hidden in his locker to make him look like the killer. Too bad it won't fit on those feet of his.
• One-Steve Limit : No relation to any of the hosts of Dax over from Star Trek: Deep Space Nine .

General Chang

Played by: Christopher Plummer

Dubbed in french by: gabriel cattand.

"Now be honest, Captain, warrior to warrior. You do prefer it this way, don't you, as it was meant to be? No peace in our time."

• Affably Evil : He is a Klingon officer vehemently against Starfleet and the architect of a conspiracy, but he respects Kirk for his valor.
• Bald of Evil : He was supposed to have long hair, but Christopher Plummer had liked his bald appearance, so Chang became bald.
• Big Bad : He fills the role of the film's main bad guy, but he's really part of a Big Bad Ensemble including Admiral Cartwright, Colonel West and the Romulan Ambassador.
• Cultured Warrior : He is quite knowledgeable of Earth culture with a particularly fondness for Shakespeare, even quoting the bard's plays to his enemies during battle.
• Evil Counterpart : A bald starship commander who quotes Shakespeare? Never heard that one before.
• Eyepatch of Power : Bolted onto his skull, no less.
• Face Death with Dignity : Upon seeing the modified torpedo approaching his ship, he quietly says "To be, or not to be..."
• Incoming Ham : He has an impossible to detect ship. Rather than simply unload on the Enterprise he decides to open a channel and announce himself.
• In the Original Klingon : While it is Gorkon that names the trope, and references connecting the Klingons to Shakespeare have existed as far back as Wrath of Khan , Chang is certainly the Trope Codifier . Most of his Large Ham moments are direct quotes from some of the more brutal Shakespeare works, including Hamlet , Julius Caesar , and Henry V .
• Invisibility Flicker : His Bird-Of-Prey briefly appears while firing its torpedoes.
• I Shall Taunt You : Chang: I can see you, Kirk... Can you see me?
• Large Ham : He quotes Shakespeare as a battle taunt. Chang: I am constant as the northern star! McCoy : I'd give real money if he'd shut up.
• A Nazi by Any Other Name : While dining with the Enterprise crew, he says that the Klingons need "breathing room" to survive, with Kirk immediately likening it to Adolf Hitler's calls for lebensraum prior to World War II. Chang gets the reference and is offended and only Gorkon's kindly intervention prevents an escalation.
• Obi-Wan Moment : When he realizes that Enterprise's torpedo is homing in on his ship, he simply waits for it while quoting Shakespeare.
• Treacherous Advisor : To Chancellor Gorkon.
• Well-Intentioned Extremist : The Star Trek: Klingon Academy video game gives a better, more detailed look at his motives; basically, he's an honorable conservative who genuinely fears Gorkon's moderate policies will lead their race to their doom.
• Worthy Opponent : Despite all his efforts to have Kirk framed and killed, he makes it clear that he holds him in the highest regards as a skilled and accomplished warrior. And when he gets the chance to fight Kirk in an actual battle, he finds this much better than if everything had gone according to the original plan.
• Xanatos Speed Chess : Kirk has the Enterprise surrender instead of defending himself when Kronos One threatens to fire at them, and he and McCoy beam aboard Kronos One to offer aid? Chang has them arrested and stand trial for the chancellor's death and prosecutes them himself. The sentence of death is commuted because of Colonel Worf's earnest defense in what was otherwise a show trial ? He arranges for them to be killed while trying to escape the penal colony of Rura Penthe. Kirk still manages to escape prison? He flies his prototype Bird-Of-Prey over to the meeting location to intercept the Enterprise . Chang is nothing if not adaptable.

Chancellor Gorkon

Played by: David Warner

Dubbed in french by: jean pierre moulin.

" If there is to be a brave new world, our generation is going to have the hardest time living in it."

• Classy Cane : He uses the thigh bone of an animal he'd hunted as his walking stick .
• Due to the Dead : Star Trek: The Next Generation reveals that Starfleet named an Excelsior -class ship in his honor.
• Honor Before Reason : Many of his fellow Klingons were against his decision to present an olive branch to the Federation. It cost him his life.
• The Idealist : According to Azetbur, his countrymen saw him as this. Not that they were wrong.
• In the Original Klingon : The Trope Namer .
• Our Presidents Are Different : Chancellor Target and Chancellor Personable.
• The Pollyanna : He summarizes the disastrous state dinner aboard the Enterprise as saying that the two sides "have a long way to go". He doesn't take Kirk's distrust personally and sympathizes with Kirk over their generation's difficulty with the prospect of peace. And in his dying breath, he begs the same distrustful Kirk to save the peace process. His last plea succeeded, as Kirk was shaken out of his old hatred and was the final instrument to achieve peace between the Federation and Klingon Empire.
• Reasonable Authority Figure : While his hand was largely forced by the explosion of Praxis, Klingon Academy shows that he had wanted peace with the Federation before he originally became Chancellor. He also doesn't take Kirk's lack of trust personally. Gorkon: You don't trust me, do you? I don't blame you. If there is to be a brave new world , our generation is going to have the hardest time living in it.
• Small Role, Big Impact : He's killed off in the first act, but his actions get the film's main plot moving.

Chancellor Azetbur

Played by: Rosanna DeSoto

"We are a proud race, and we are here because we intend to go on being proud."

• Jerkass Has a Point : While her delivery is much harsher than neccesary (part of the discussion in general breaking down), her criticisms of the Federation during dinner are spot-on. Other than the president and a small minority of Starfleet officers the leadership of this supposedly multi-ethnic Federation (as shown in this movie) might as well be a human empire.
• Reasonable Authority Figure : Refuses to invade the Federation or cancel the peace talks in response to her father's assassination and in spite of her earlier tensions with the Federation before the aforementioned tragedy, considering it sufficient to put the alleged assassins on trial. And when Captain Kirk, the man she believes to be the mastermind behind her father's assassination thwarts a second hit that would have destroyed the prospect for detente and then makes a heartfelt plea for peace, she states that Kirk "restored her father's faith".
• What the Hell, Hero? : However, everything is on her terms, and refuses to bend her knee at the Federation. Azetbur: "In alien able human rights." Why the very name is racist .

Brigadier Kerla

Played by: paul rossilli.

• Adaptational Villainy : In the film he's a fairly anonymous flunky to Gorkon and then Azetbur, to whom he remains loyal. In the official novelization of the film and other spin-off media he's actually in on the conspiracy, and after the destruction of Chang's ship is left as its highest-ranking member, which leads to a very nasty case of Death by Adaptation .
• Blood Knight : Tries to persuade Azetbur to declare war against the Federation.
• Undying Loyalty : He is dedicated to Gorkon. He is also just as loyal to Azetbur and as much as he really wants a war to avenge his beloved Chancellor, he respects her authority enough to back down and keep his Blood Knight tendencies in check.

Colonel Worf

Played by: michael dorn, dubbed in french by: benoit allemane.

"I wish to note, for the record, that the evidence against my client is entirely circumstantial. I beg the court to consider this when pronouncing its sentence."

• Klingon Scientists Get No Respect : Averted. Colonel Worf is portrayed as a dedicated legal advocate, but does not seem in his limited time on screen to be treated any differently because of it. This might seem unusual compared to how Klingons generally come across, until in one of the later seasons of DS9 , where another Klingon lawyer is seen and gives the perspective that a legal proceeding is just combat of another form.
• Only Sane Man : During the trial, he is one of the true reasonable Klingons and does his best to defend his clients.
• Reasonable Authority Figure : He retains the rank of Colonel and is a level-headed attorney whose ego is not attached to the trial unlike his fellow comrades.
• Spanner in the Works : During Kirk and McCoy 's trial, he manages to poke many conspicuous holes in a lot of Chang's accusatory evidence, makes an inquiry that piques Spock's interest as he remotely watches the trial, and persuades the judge to sentence them to exile on Rura Penthe rather than giving them the death penalty. It's subtle, but you can see that Chang is not pleased by this development, and it allows Kirk to escape and foil the conspiracy.

Commandant Koth

Played by: w. morgan sheppard, dubbed in french by: jean violette.

"Work well, and you will be treated well. Work badly, and you will die!"

• All There in the Manual : His name comes from the CCG.
• Cool and Unusual Punishment : Literally; his favored method of executing rebellious or lazy prisoners is to have them stripped naked and thrown out onto the surface of Rura Penthe, where they freeze to death in less time than it takes for him to give his big speech to the new arrivals. It's implied that he makes a point of making a demonstration of this every time new inmates arrive.
• The film's novelization shows that Chang intends to have him executed for allowing Kirk and McCoy to escape, though leaves it ambiguous as to whether or not Chang actually gets around to putting this in motion before he himself is killed. In the movie he just angrily hangs up on him.
• His counterpart in the Star Trek (2009) timeline ends up predeceasing his prime reality counterpart by at least three decades, dying during Nero's escape from Rura Penthe.
• His Name Is... : Done word-for-word, just as Kirk and McCoy are beamed away .
• Just Between You and Me : Decides that since he's about to kill Kirk and McCoy , he can afford to give away the identity of the mastermind behind the conspiracy. In a subversion, he actually gets prevented from doing this by the Enterprise crew, who beam their crew-mates aboard before he can spill the beans.
• Leave No Witnesses : He gives this as his reason for killing Martia despite their deal, and is about to do the same to Kirk and McCoy before they get rescued.

Other Characters

President ra-ghoratreii, played by: kurtwood smith, dubbed in french by: philippe peythieu.

• All There in the Manual : As with his predecessor , his name comes from source materials and not the film's dialogue. These sources also identify his species as Efrosian, who were once subjects of the Klingon Empire. In fact, it's considered significant that an Efrosian is willing to come to the Klingons' aid. In addition, he's supposed to be blind; the weird glasses he sometimes wears are actually an earlier version of Geordi LaForge 's VISOR .
• Blind People Wear Sunglasses : Word of God says that the Federation President is blind, and that's why he wears pince-nez-style sunglasses. Word of God says that these glasses let him see akin to Geordi's VISOR on TNG later. invoked
• The Fettered : He recognizes that Kirk and McCoy are being railroaded, but he won't break the law or start a war to save them. Partly because it's the only way to save the peace process. "This president is not above the law."
• Reasonable Authority Figure : He flatly refuses to go to war over Kirk and McCoy and proclaims that he is not above the law.
• Unexpected Successor : Expanded Universe books have revealed that he won a special election to succeed Hiram Roth after Roth died in office from overwork after the Probe Crisis.

Played by: Iman (female form); Tom Morga (brute form); Katie Jane Johnston (young girl form); William Shatner (Kirk form)

• A Form You Are Comfortable With : She initially greets Kirk and McCoy as an alien woman in order to gain their trust, seducing Kirk into the bargain. It's unclear what her Shapeshifter Default Form is, or whether she even has one.
• Compact Infiltrator : Transforms into a child in order to shrink out of her restraints during the prison break.
• Identity Impersonator : Despite her shapeshifting ability, the only time she actually impersonates a known individual is when she shifts into Kirk's form, shortly before she's killed.
• Rewarded as a Traitor Deserves : Despite her being offered (and accepting) a full pardon in exchange for luring Kirk and McCoy to their deaths, the commandant vaporizes her anyway.
• Spot the Imposter : Is unwittingly forced into this situation when a Klingon search party catches up with her, Kirk, and McCoy just when she happens to have shifted into Kirk's form. Unfortunately for her (and fortunately for Kirk) the commandant never had any intention of taking her alive, and he vaporizes her simply for speaking up at the wrong time.
• Translator Buddy : She has to play this role to Kirk and McCoy in the Rura Penthe mines, as their universal translators have been confiscated.
• Voluntary Shapeshifting : She can transform into seemingly any type of humanoid, even when they're much bigger (as with the "brute" form) or much smaller (with her form as a young girl) than the female form she initially poses as.
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Tv/streaming, collections, great movies, chaz's journal, contributors, star trek vi: the undiscovered country.

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At the end their signatures are written large across the screen: William Shatner , Leonard Nimoy , DeForest Kelley and the others who have been playing the crew of the Starship Enterprise for the past 25 years. The implication is that the original voyage of “ Star Trek ” has come to an end--that the characters and players of the first television series and the six “Star Trek” movies will now go where no “Star Trek” actor has gone before, into retirement, and that if there is another “Star Trek” movie it will star, perhaps, the cast of TV’s “Star Trek” The Next Generation.”

I am not so sure, however. This sixth “Star Trek” film has so much more life and interest than the dreary “Star Trek V: The Final Frontier” that perhaps it will tempt Paramount into still another story for Captain Kirk and his crew (perhaps a training voyage for the new generation?). “Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country” begins, as so many “Star Trek” stories do, with a story set in the future but parallel to contemporary developments. In this case, as the Klingon empire begins to self-destruct after a Chernoble-type explosion on one of its moons, the obvious reference is to the disintegration of the Russian empire.

As the Klingons sue for peace, the Enterprise is assigned to go out to the edges of Federation space and negotiate with them. Captain Kirk is bitterly reluctant; he doesn’t believe the Klingons can be trusted, ever. But Mr. Spock informs him of an alleged ancient Vulcan proverb: “Only Nixon can go to China.”

There are a lot of lines like that in the script by Nicholas Meyer and Denny Martin Flinn, and a lot of lines by Shakespeare, too, who supplies not only the movie’s subtitle but also many references from “Hamlet” and elsewhere (“He is better in the original Klingon,” one of the enemy snorts.) At one point two of the supporting actors, the distinguished Shakespearians David Warner and Christopher Plummer , seem to be trading familiar quotations instead of dialog, but the strange thing is, it’s effective; in its pop-culture way, “Star Trek” has taken on a kind of epic quality over the years, and such references help establish the notion that the story really does take place in a future that remembers the past.

If the dialog is from Shakespeare, the plot seems borrowed more from an old British country house mystery; one or more disloyal members of the Enterprise crew fire on a Klingon star cruiser and then port themselves on board to murder those who have come to ask for peace. Through plot complications that would have made Agatha Christie proud, the clues to the identify of the killers depend on bloody boots and bootprints, and figuring out who was where, and when.

“Star Trek” has always been more allegory than science fiction. There is a kind of integrity, indeed, in the deliberately low-tech sets; the movies have always remained true to the klutzy art direction of the TV series, and in a post-”2001” and “Star Wars” age the bridge of the Enterprise still looks as if it were made out of old Captain Video props and a 1950s housewares show.

It doesn’t matter, because the movies aren’t really based on sets, or even much on action; they’re about ideas and relationships and here we see the old friendships of the Enterprise tested, and hear new versions of the same old jokes about how Vulcans don’t understand jokes. It’s entertaining, and reassuring.

Why on earth (or anywhere else) would Paramount want to retire this crew, which is as familiar and comforting as old family friends, and which does its job with the effortless grace of long familiarity? In Shakespeare, the “undiscovered country” is death. And elsewhere trhe bard refers to one who dies as being like an actor who goes off to “study a long silence.” I don’t know if that will work here. I doubt frankly that the crew of the Enterprise can stop talking long enough to die.

Roger Ebert

Roger Ebert was the film critic of the Chicago Sun-Times from 1967 until his death in 2013. In 1975, he won the Pulitzer Prize for distinguished criticism.

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Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country (1991)

113 minutes

William Shatner as Capt.Kirk

Leonard Nimoy as Mr. Spock

Walter Koenig as Chekov

Nichelle Nichols as Commander Uhura

Produced by

• Steven-Charles Jaffe
• Ralph Winter
• Cliff Eidelman
• Nicholas Meyer

Photographed by

• Hiro Narita
• Ronald Roose

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Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country

Where to watch.

Watch Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country with a subscription on Max, rent on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, Apple TV, or buy on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, Apple TV.

What to Know

The Undiscovered Country is a strong cinematic send-off for the original Trek crew, featuring some remarkable visuals and an intriguing, character-driven mystery plot.

Audience Reviews

Cast & crew.

Nicholas Meyer

William Shatner

Captain James Tiberius Kirk

Leonard Nimoy

Captain Spock

DeForest Kelley

Commander Leonard H. McCoy, M.D.

James Doohan

Captain Montgomery 'Scotty' Scott

Walter Koenig

Commander Pavel Andreievich Chekov

Movie Clips

Best movies to stream at home, movie news & guides, this movie is featured in the following articles., critics reviews.

Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country (1991)

Kim cattrall: lt. valeris.

• Photos (28)
• Quotes (16)

Photos 

Quotes 

Captain Spock : [to Lt. Valeris]  Lieutenant, the torpedo hit, once again, please.

[Valeris replays video] 

Captain Spock : Hold.

[replay pauses] 

Commander Pavel Andreievich Chekov : It *is* Enterprise. *We* fired.

Captain Montgomery 'Scotty' Scott : That is *not* possible! All weapons *visually* accounted for,

[to Spock] 

Captain Montgomery 'Scotty' Scott : sir.

Captain Spock : An ancestor of mine maintained that if you eliminated the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth.

Cmdr. Nyota Uhura : What, exactly, does *that* mean?

Captain Spock : It means that we can not have fired those torpedoes, someone else did.

Captain Montgomery 'Scotty' Scott : Well, they dinna fire on themselves, and there were no the ships present.

Captain Spock : There was an enormous neutron energy surge.

Captain Montgomery 'Scotty' Scott : Not from us!

Commander Pavel Andreievich Chekov : A neutron surge that big could only be produced by another ship.

Cmdr. Nyota Uhura : Kronos One?

Captain Spock : Too far away. Very near *us*. Possibly *beneath* us.

Captain Montgomery 'Scotty' Scott : If there were a ship beneath us, the Klingons would have seen her.

Captain Spock : [pause]  Would they?

Lieutenant Valeris : A bird-of-prey.

Captain Spock : A bird-of-prey.

Commander Pavel Andreievich Chekov : *Cloaked?*

Captain Montgomery 'Scotty' Scott : A bird-of-prey cannot fire when she's cloaked.

Captain Spock : All things being equal, Mr. Scott, I would agree. However, things are not equal. This one *can*.

Lieutenant Valeris : We must inform Starfleet Command.

Captain Montgomery 'Scotty' Scott : Inform them of what? A new weapon that is invisible? Raving lunatics, that's what they'll call us. They'll say we're so desperate to exonerate the Captain, we'll say *anything*.

Captain Spock : And they would be correct. We have no evidence, only a theory which happens to fit the facts.

Cmdr. Nyota Uhura : Assuming you're right, Mr. Spock, why would they fire on their own president?

Captain Spock : Indeed.

Captain James T. Kirk : Valeris, know anything about a radiation surge?

Lieutenant Valeris : Sir?

Captain James T. Kirk : Chekov?

Commander Pavel Chekov : Only the size of my head.

Captain James T. Kirk : [to himself]  I know what you mean.

Captain James T. Kirk : Names, Lieutenant!

Lieutenant Valeris : I do not remember.

Captain Spock : A lie?

Lieutenant Valeris : A choice.

Captain James T. Kirk : Spock?

[Valeris recoils as he tries to mind-meld, but he restrains her] 

Lieutenant Valeris , Captain Spock : Admiral... Cartwright.

Chekov : From Starfleet?

Captain James T. Kirk : Who else?

Lieutenant Valeris , Captain Spock : General... Chang.

Lieutenant Valeris , Captain Spock : Romulan... ambassador... Nanclus.

Captain James T. Kirk : Where is the peace conference? Where is the peace conference?

[as Valeris gasps in pain, Spock lets her go] 

Captain Spock : She does not know.

Scotty : Then we're dead.

Captain Spock : I've been dead before. Contact Excelsior. She'll have the coordinates.

Captain Spock : The lieutenant was the first Vulcan to be graduated at the top of her class at the Academy.

Captain James T. Kirk : You must be very proud.

Lieutenant Valeris : I don't believe so, sir.

Commander Leonard 'Bones' McCoy, M.D. : She's a Vulcan, all right.

Lieutenant Valeris : We must inform Starfleet Command...

Captain Montgomery 'Scotty' Scott : Inform them of what? A new weapon that's invisible? Raving lunatics, that's what they'll call us! They'll say we're so desperate to exonerate the captain that we'll say anything.

Captain Montgomery 'Scotty' Scott : [referring to Gorkon's daughter, whom he believed killed Gorkon]  That Klingon bitch killed her father.

Captain Spock : Her own father?

Lieutenant Valeris : It is an old story, sir.

Captain Montgomery 'Scotty' Scott : They don't place the same value on life as we do, Spock. You know that. Mark my word, she did not shed one bloody tear.

Captain Spock : Hardly conclusive, Mr. Scott, since Klingons have no tear ducts.

Captain James T. Kirk : [Valeris has just engaged thrusters to take Enterprise out of Spacedock]  Thank you Lieutenant, ahead one quarter impulse power

Lieutenant Valeris : [spins in chair to face Kirk]  Captain, may I remind you that regulations specify thrusters only whilst in spacedock.

Commander Leonard 'Bones' McCoy, M.D. : [the bridge crew cough loudly, Chekov shakes his head, Uhura tuts softly. McCoy leans in to tease Spock]  Jim?

Captain James T. Kirk : You heard the order, Lieutenant...

Lieutenant Valeris : Aye, sir!

Captain Spock : This ship will be searched from bow to stern, Lieutenant Valeris, you'll be in charge.

Lieutenant Valeris : Aye, sir.

Commander Pavel Andreievich Chekov : I do not understand. If there *was* a ship underneath us, surely the assassins beamed aboard from *that* vessel, not Enterprise.

Captain Spock : You're forgetting something, Mr. Chekov. According to out databanks, this ship fired those torpedoes. If we *did*, the killers are here. If we did *not*, whoever altered the databanks is here. In either case, what we are looking for *is* here.

Commander Pavel Andreievich Chekov : What *are* we looking for, sir?

Captain Spock : Lieutenant?

Lieutenant Valeris : Two pairs of gravity boots.

Lieutenant Valeris : I did not fire. You cannot prove anything.

Captain James T. Kirk : Yes, I can. At my trial, my personal log was used against me. How long did you wait outside my quarters before I noticed you?

Lieutenant Valeris : [to Spock]  You knew? I tried to tell you, but you would not listen.

Captain Spock : Neither of us was hearing very well that night, Lieutenant. There were things I tried to tell you about having faith.

Lieutenant Valeris : You have betrayed the Federation... all of you.

Commander Leonard 'Bones' McCoy, M.D. : And what do you think you've been doing?

Lieutenant Valeris : Saving Starfleet. Klingons cannot be trusted. Sir... you said so yourself. They killed your son. Did you not wish Gorkon dead? "Let them die," you said. Did I misinterpret you? And you were right. They conspired with us to assassinate their own chancellor. How trustworthy can they be?

Commander Leonard 'Bones' McCoy, M.D. : Klingons and Federation members conspiring together?

Captain James T. Kirk : Who is "us"?

Lieutenant Valeris : Everyone who stands to lose from peace.

Lieutenant Valeris : A Bird-of-Prey?

Captain Spock : A Bird-of-Prey.

Commander Pavel Chekov : Cloaked?

Captain Montgomery 'Scotty' Scott : A Bird-of-Prey cannot open fire when she's cloaked!

Captain Spock : All things being equal, Mr. Scott, I would agree with you. However, all things are not equal. This one can.

Lieutenant Valeris : Do you not recognize that a turning point has been reached in the affairs of the Federation?

Captain Spock : Mmm. History is replete with turning points, Lieutenant. You must have faith.

Lieutenant Valeris : Faith?

Captain Spock : That the universe will unfold as it should.

Captain James T. Kirk : Where is the peace conference? They're going to attempt another assassination.

Captain Hikaru Sulu : The conference is at Camp Khitomer, near the Romulan border. I'm sending the exact coordinates on a coded frequency.

Captain James T. Kirk : I'm afraid we're gonna need more than that. There's a Bird of Prey on the lookout for us, and she can fire while cloaked.

Captain Hikaru Sulu : Surely not.

Captain James T. Kirk : Hold on. How many of those things are there? Come on, Lieutenant.

Lieutenant Valeris : Just the prototype.

Captain James T. Kirk : You hear that?

Captain Hikaru Sulu : I'm getting underway now, but we're now in Alpha quadrant. The chances of our reaching the conference in time are slim.

Captain James T. Kirk : When does this conference start?

Captain Hikaru Sulu : According to my information, today.

Captain James T. Kirk : Thank you, Captain Sulu.

Captain Hikaru Sulu : Don't mention it, Captain Kirk.

Chekov : [Kirk and Bones have been arrested by the Klingons]  Mr. Spock, we've got to do something.

Captain Spock : I assume command of this ship as of 0230 hours. Commander Uhura, please notify Starfleet headquarters. Tell them precisely what has taken place and request instructions.

Cmdr. Nyota Uhura : Aye, sir.

Lieutenant Valeris : We cannot allow them to be taken back to Kronos as prisoners.

Captain Spock : What do you suggest, Lieutenant? Opening fire will not retrieve them. And an armed conflict is precisely what the captain wished to avoid. We will be able to follow the captain's movements.

Lieutenant Valeris : How did you achieve this, sir?

Captain Spock : Time is precious, Lieutenant. We must endeavor to piece together what happened here tonight. According to our data bank, this ship fired those torpedoes.

Captain Montgomery 'Scotty' Scott : No way!

Captain Spock : I sympathize, Mr. Scott, but we need evidence. Please accompany me.

Chekov : And if we cannot piece together what happened? What then, sir?

Captain Spock : In that case, Mr. Chekov, it resides in the purview of the diplomats.

Captain Spock : You've done well, Valeris. As your sponsor at the Academy, I have followed your career with satisfaction. And as a Vulcan, you've exceeded my expectations.

Lieutenant Valeris : [looking at a painting on the wall]  I do not understand this representation.

Captain Spock : It is a depiction from ancient Earth mythology: the expulsion from paradise.

Lieutenant Valeris : Why keep it in your quarters?

Captain Spock : It is a reminder to me that all things end.

Uhuru : We're to report back at once.

Chekov : We cannot abandon Captain Kirk and Dr. McCoy.

Uhuru : Of course not.

Lieutenant Valeris : 400 years ago on the planet Earth, workers who felt their livelihood threatened by automation flung their wooden shoes called sabots into the machines to stop them. Hence the word "sabotage."

Uhuru : [getting the point]  We are experiencing technical malfunction. All backup systems inoperative.

Chekov : Excellent. Uh, I-I mean... too bad.

Captain Spock : Any progress?

Lieutenant Valeris : None. We have a crew of 300 turning their own quarters inside out, but the killers may still be among them. Surely they've disposed of these boots by now. Would it not have been logical to have left them on Gorkon's ship?

Captain Spock : Even logic must give way to physics. Gravity had not been restored by the time they escaped. Without the boots, they would have floated off the Klingon transporter pads.

Chekov : Why not simply vaporize them?

Lieutenant Valeris : [taking a phaser out of a cabinet]  Like this?

[as she fires it at a cooking pot, an alarm sounds] 

Lieutenant Valeris : [turning it off]  At ease. As you know, Commander Chekov, no one can fire an unauthorized phaser aboard a starship. Suppose when they returned, they threw the boots into the refuse?

Captain Spock : I'm having the refuse searched. If my surmise is correct, those boots will cling to the killers' necks like a pair of Tiberian bats. They could not make their escape without them, nor can they simply throw them out the window for all to see. Those boots are here somewhere.

Uhuru : [entering]  Did someone fire off a phaser?

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Roddenberry was right: why star trek 6 switched saavik for another vulcan.

Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country created the treacherous Lt. Valeris after Gene Roddenberry objected to the plan to turn Saavik into a traitor.

• Gene Roddenberry objected to the initial idea of turning Lt. Saavik into a traitor in Star Trek VI, and he was right. Saavik was a beloved character and it wouldn't have been fitting for her to commit treason.
• Lt. Valeris was created as a new character for Star Trek VI to replace Saavik. This decision allowed the story to unfold properly without compromising Saavik's established character.
• Money was also a factor in the decision to create Valeris. Kirstie Alley, who played Saavik in Star Trek II, was the highest-paid actress on television at the time and Star Trek couldn't afford her. Kim Cattrall was cast as Valeris and she was excited to join Star Trek as a new character.

Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry was right to object to Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country 's initial idea to turn Lt. Saavik (Kirstie Alley/Robin Curtis) into a traitor, which resulted in the film creating a new character, Lt. Valeris (Kim Cattrall). In Star Trek VI , Valeris conspired with rogue Klingons, Romulans, and Starfleet Officers to prevent peace between the Klingon Empire and the United Federation of Planets. From her position aboard the USS Enterprise, Valeris enabled the conspiracy to frame Captain James T. Kirk (William Shatner) for the assassination of Klingon Chancellor Gorkon (David Warner).

During the production of Star Trek VI in 1991, a very ill Gene Roddenberry was still executive consultant of the Star Trek movies as well as exective producer of Star Trek: The Next Generation. Although Roddenberry had long since lost any real say in the movie franchise's decision-making, he was still kept in the loop about Star Trek VI 's development, and he was made aware of every element of the film's story, including the initial plan to cast Lt. Saavik in the role of the Starfleet traitor. Roddenberry was reportedly furious at the idea of Saavik committing treason against the Federation, and especially betraying Captain Spock (Leonard Nimoy). And Star Trek 's creator was correct.

Star Trek: The Original Series Cast & Character Guide

Roddenberry’s objection saved saavik from being star trek vi’s vulcan traitor.

Gene Roddenberry fought against Star Trek VI 's director Nicholas Meyer's plan to make Saavik Star Trek VI 's Vulcan traitor, and he objected on the grounds that Saavik had achieved "beloved character" status. Meyer argued that Saavik was a character he created for Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan , and since she was not a Gene Roddenberry creation, he had every right to turn Saavik traitor if that's what the movie's story called for. However, Roddenberry got his way, and Saavik was saved. It turned out much better that Valeris was created for Star Trek VI because a character created from whole cloth allowed Meyer to have Valeris act as the story required, and it wouldn't be "out of character", as turning traitor would have been for Saavik.

There were other factors that led to Lt. Valeris replacing Lt. Saavik in Star Trek VI, however, and the most prevalent was money. In 1991, Kirstie Alley was the star of Cheers, and she was the highest-paid actress on television. Frankly, Star Trek VI couldn't afford Alley reprising Saavik. Nicholas Meyer and producer Leonard Nimoy also didn't want to recast the role of Saavik a third time after Alley and Robin Curtis played the Vulcan, so creating Valeris instead was logical. This also allowed Meyer to cast Kim Cattrall as Valeris; the future Sex and the City star was actually Meyer's original choice to play Saavik in Star Trek II but Cattrall was unavailable. As Valeris, Cattralll was excited to finally join Star Trek and play a new character. Kim would have turned the movie down if she'd been asked to be the third actress to play Saavik.

Why Roddenberry Was Right About Saavik In Star Trek VI

Although Saavik only made three canonical appearances in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, Star Trek III: The Search for Spock , and Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home, Gene Roddenberry was right that Lt. Saavik was a character who was embraced and beloved. Star Trek fans likely would have rejected seeing Saavik turn traitor out of a misguided sense she was "protecting the Federation." In turn, Lt. Valeris made a huge impact as a protégé of Spock who betrayed him, and even though Star Trek VI was her lone appearance, Valeris remains influential. Star Trek: Lower Decks ' heroic Vulcan Lt. T'Lyn's (Gabrielle Ruiz) look is based, in part, on Valeris' hairstyle and signature headband.

Star Trek: Picard gave Saavik her due 37 years after she was last seen in Star Trek IV . Canonical backstory setting up Picard season 3 on Instagram revealed that Saavik was promoted to Captain in 2293, and the Vulcan was, in fact, the first Captain of the USS Titan. Further, the Titan was briefly the flagship of the Federation. This essentially made Saavik one of the most important Starfleet Captains of the late 23rd century era, thanks to Gene Roddenberry fighting to keep Saavik from going down in Star Trek history as a traitor.

‘Star Trek’: All 39 Classic TV Main Characters Ranked, From Spock to Wesley (Photos)

A look back at the TV franchise’s many memorable classic characters before the explosion of streaming shows like “Discovery”…and its handful of duds

In its half-century history, “Star Trek” has challenged us to boldly go where no one has gone before. The best characters have often encouraged vigorous debate among Trekkies, as they are compared by their rank and species and evaluated for differences in their flaws and virtues. The worst — we’re looking at you, “Voyager” and “Enterprise” — leave fans wondering if there’s a point to their existence. 

A quick note, to keep the list manageable, we’re restricting the list to the main cast of the five “Trek” TV shows before the recent explosion of streaming series like “Discovery” and “Lower Decks.” That means you won’t be seeing movie villains like Khan or recurring characters like Q. But let it be said that if we did include him, Q would top the list by several light years.

39. Wesley Crusher (The Next Generation) By far the most hated character in “Trek” history. A super-genius kid who would on more than one occasion save the Enterprise while others with infinitely more experience struggled. Even the man who played him, Wil Wheaton , hated him.

38. Travis Mayweather (Enterprise) No backstory, no fears, no desires. No “Trek” crew member was more pointless and two-dimensional than Mayweather, except perhaps for …

37. Hoshi Sato (Enterprise)   … a poor man’s Uhura whose sole purpose was to serve as a translator for the crew since the technology for the Universal Translator hadn’t been invented yet. Like many of the characters at the bottom of this list, Rick Berman and Brannon Braga were unable to flesh Sato out beyond her basic premise.

36. Neelix (Voyager) And now for the “Voyager” portion of our list, starting with the ship’s mohawked chef. He never fit into the show’s plots, leaving him to spout dumb food jokes and platitudes of optimism to the weary crew.

35. B’Elanna Torres (Voyager) Next we have the Human/Klingon hybrid lieutenant, whose entire personality too often boiled down to her being a hothead. In truth, she seemed to be designed as a mix of Worf and Tasha, but failed to even come close to being as memorable as either of them.

34. Chakotay (Voyager) Another character that the writers ran out of material for. At best, Captain Janeway’s right hand man was a dull character. At worst, the attempts to honor Gene Roddenberry ‘s dedication to diversity by delving into Chakotay’s Native American background came off as too stereotypical.

33. Tom Paris (Voyager) A slightly better character who had more defined relationships with other crew members, but many of the episodes that focused on him were just variations on him being the stereotypical hotshot pilot looking for a thrill.

32. Harry Kim (Voyager) His friendship with Paris and awkward conversations with Seven-of-Nine were enjoyable to watch, but other than that he tended to be just a stiff ensign who spouted technobabble.

31. Malcolm Reed (Enterprise) The inventor of the “red alert” system. Unlike Sato and Mayweather, Reed had a bit of a character arc as he spent his time on the Enterprise coming out of his shell, but this didn’t result in Reed becoming much more than a generally affable but nondescript character.

30. Deanna Troi (TNG) Take a shot every time this Betazoid started a sentence with the words “I sense …” Troi spent several seasons in low-neckline outfits, serving as a counselor on a ship that rarely had any real conflict. Eventually, she was given a uniform like the others and allowed to play a role in missions, but only at a very late point in the series.

29. Jonathan Archer (Enterprise) When “Enterprise” started, Archer was an interesting captain. As Starfleet’s first man in charge, he was bound to make mistakes, and viewers enjoying seeing how he got out of them. Unfortunately, the struggle got stale quick, as he became the “prototype” captain instead of developing into a leader in his own right.

28. T’Pol (Enterprise) Though Jolene Blalock’s acting could sometimes be as ridiculous as her fanservice outfits, the first Vulcan Starfleet officer’s slow embrace of her illogical humans was interesting to watch, as was her struggle to cope with a disease that dissolved control over her emotions. 

27. Phlox (Enterprise) Armed with a massive grin and years of medical experience, NX-01’s Denobulan doctor is what Neelix could have been, providing both regular humor and the basis for episodes that explored his values and relationship with a human race still getting used to interacting with aliens. 

26. Jadzia Dax (Deep Space Nine) An interesting blend of previous personalities. Over the course of six seasons, Dax showed Worf’s intensity, Kirk’s swagger, and Spock’s curiosity. Part of this is due to the fact that she’s bonded with a symbiont that has the memories of countless past lives. It’s also due to inconsistent writing, particularly after she hooked up with Worf in Season 4.

25. Quark (DS9) The Ferengi started as the Alpha Quadrant’s amoral mafia, but DS9 began to show their capacity for courage and compassion, though they would be loath to admit it. In spite of his insistence that he’s nothing but a cowardly smuggler — and he can be that — Quark proves to be a valuable ally to Sisko when the chips are down.

24. Tasha Yar (TNG) Oh, where to start with Tasha. She was a rather polarizing figure, with some people appreciating her status as a more involved woman on the bridge, while others thought she was rather obnoxious. She was killed off near the end of season 1, but was brought back in the episode “Yesterday’s Enterprise,” which was praised for showing Tasha’s true potential as a character while giving her a better send-off.

23. Tuvok (Voyager) This is where the characters really get good, starting with the Voyager’s resident Vulcan. Tim Russ proved to be a worthy successor to Leonard Nimoy , portraying Tuvok as a loyal friend to Janeway and a Vulcan with a dark side beneath all the discipline and repressed emotions.

22. Doctor (Voyager) Easily the most popular character in the “Voyager” cast, this sarcastic, overworked medical hologram won fans over with his exasperated jokes and quest for respect from the rest of the Voyager crew. His non-organic status also allowed him to bond with Seven-of-Nine

21. Pavel Chekov (Star Trek) Several members of the original Enterprise crew were not fleshed out on paper, but became beloved thanks to brilliant acting and natural chemistry between the cast. Take Chekov, who became a fan favorite because of his loyalty to Mother Russia as well as the blood samples he was constantly asked to provide.

20. Nyota Uhura (Trek) Though she was vastly underutilized, Uhura’s presence on the Enterprise was a big step forward for African-American women in television. After being skipped on the chain of command for years, Uhura finally got to take charge of the Enterprise during a rescue mission in the animated series.

19. Hikaru Sulu (Trek) Like Chekhov’s Walt Koenig and Uhura’s Nichelle Nichols, the two-dimensional Sulu became legendary thanks to George Takei . For a long time, Sulu was known for being a cultured gentleman and a bare-chested fencer , but he got his big moment in the movie “Star Trek VI” as captain of the Excelsior.

18. Seven of Nine (Voyager)   Like Uhura, Troi, and T’Pol, Seven of Nine was the fanservice character of her series, but her introduction to “Voyager” is an episode for the ages. As a former Borg unit brought to Janeway’s side, Seven continued the tradition of rounding out alien races that were once bitter Federation enemies by showing just why someone would want to be assimilated.

17. Miles O’Brien (TNG/DS9) Midway through “TNG,” the writers realized there was value in fleshing out the Chekovs in their cast. Miles started as a seen-but-rarely-heard recurring character who eventually became a star on “DS9” thanks to episodes that transformed him into Starfleet’s quintessential everyman.

16.  Charles “Trip” Tucker III (Enterprise) Perhaps Trip’s ranked too high, but let’s throw “Enterprise” a bone. He was the most interesting character on the show, serving as a right hand man to Archer, a lover to T’Pol, a fighter, a scholar, and ultimately, a martyr to the Federation.

15. Julian Bashir (DS9) One of the more strongly-defined character arcs in the “Trek” canon. Bashir started the series as a cocky but inexperienced crew member who eventually developed into a mature member of the crew as the Dominion War raged on.

14. Beverly Crusher (TNG) Unlike her son, Dr. Crusher was a popular “TNG” cast member. Not only was she a compassionate medic, she was a capable fighter and leader who even got to take command of the bridge on a couple of occasions.

13. Kathryn Janeway (Voyager) The Voyager’s captain has become the basis for much debate among Trekkies. In addition to her character swinging from mother figure to ruthless general depending on the writer, Janeway threw away the Federation rulebook in ways that even Kirk would be shocked by as she tried to guide the Voyager back home. Say what you will, but Janeway is an interesting figure in the “Trek” canon, which is why she’s ranked so high. 

12. Montgomery “Scotty” Scott (Trek) The miracle worker of the Enterprise treated his ship like a beloved daughter. Whether it was attacked by Romulans or Tribbles, Scotty would always make sure that his beloved ship would make it out in one piece. Unfortunately, as the new movie “Star Trek Beyond” shows, Scotty’s counterpart in the reboot universe can’t say the same about his Enterprise.

11. Geordi La Forge (TNG) The Enterprise-D’s sweet engineer would often insist that some engineering marvel that would save the day is impossible, only to do it in minutes when pressed. His finest moments as a character came when he helped Data learn how to be more human, often to mixed results.

10. Kira Nerys (DS9) While “Trek” tackled many philosophical topics, religion was not one of them for a long time. Kira changed that, along with many other things. A firm believer in the Prophets and in terror tactics, Kira’s tough past on Bajor caused her to lock horns with the lofty ideals of the Federation members she had to work with on DS9.

9. Worf (TNG/DS9) The Klingon lieutenant started the trend of turning enemies from past series into complex characters who became vital Starfleet crew members despite cultural differences. Worf has had more appearances and story arcs than almost any other “Trek” character, including rising through Starfleet’s ranks, joining the DS9 crew, becoming a father, and preventing a civil war on his homeworld.

8. Odo (DS9) One of the most powerful twists for any “Trek” character came in “DS9,” when Odo discovered that he was a member of the race that leads the Dominion. Sisko’s number one was forced to choose a side: his race or the people they wished to exterminate. In the end, there’s only one reason he stays with the Federation: his deep love for Kira.

7. Benjamin Sisko (DS9) Commander of Deep Space Nine, Captain of the Defiant, and one of the most conflicted characters in “Trek” history. Sisko proved to be a truly fearsome captain, but gained that reputation through brutal actions that compromised his ideals. His internal conflict was a driving component behind DS9’s deconstruction of Gene Roddenberry ‘s utopia through war and racial conflict.

6. Leonard “Bones” McCoy (Trek) While he wasn’t as fleshed out as Kirk or Spock, Bones didn’t need to be. DeForest Kelley’s sardonic delivery worked perfectly with both the Captain and the Vulcan, as he served as the voice of reason to keep them both level.

5. William Riker (TNG) Number One started out as a rehash of Kirk, right down to the cocky smirk. Then came the beard, and with it a fierce sense of duty and undying loyalty to Picard. Both were put to the ultimate test in “Best of Both Worlds,” when he uttered the words that became one of the most famous cliffhangers in TV history: “Mr. Worf … FIRE.”

4. Data (TNG) The funniest and most thought-provoking supporting crew member ever. Data’s overly analytical approach to human minutae made him a charming android, and his status as a sentient A.I. gave birth to “Measure of a Man,” one of the franchise’s most important contributions to sci-fi.

3. James T. Kirk (Trek) The original captain, whose appeal hasn’t waned in the slightest over the past five decades. Kirk is the perfect mix of geek and space cowboy, serving as a sort of John Wayne figure for the sci-fi crowd. 

2. Spock (Trek) “Trek” has built its legacy on alien outsiders making observations about the human race. That began with Spock, whose Vulcan blood put him outside of our species while his human blood kept him tethered to it. From his pointy ears came endless ruminations on the nature of humanity and whether we will overcome our differences and reach the stars together.

1. Jean-Luc Picard (“TNG”) Yep, we’re planting our flag firmly in the Frenchman’s territory when it comes to the “Best Captain” debate. If Spock began the “Trek” philosophizing, Picard perfected it. He is a diplomat and a scholar, and remains so despite suffering torture and countless near-death situations. He is the embodiment of the intellect-over-brutality ideal that “Star Trek” built its legacy on.

Star Trek Let Kim Cattrall Design Her Undiscovered Country Character From Scratch

In Nicholas Meyer's 1991 film "Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country," the usual crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise-A was joined by a new member of the senior staff, Lieutenant Valeris (Kim Cattrall). Valeris, Trekkies will be able to tell you, was initially meant to be the character of Saavik, played by Kirstie Alley in "Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan" and by Robin Curtis in "Star Trek III: The Search for Spock" and "Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home." According to a DVD commentary track provided by longtime "Star Trek" designer Mike Okuda, Saavik was changed into a new character when show creator Gene Roddenberry objected to the character's unexpected turn to villainy. Valeris proves to be in league with some of the villains of "Star Trek VI," you see, and Roddenberry couldn't abide a turncoat. 

Additionally, Cattrall didn't like the idea of being the third actress to play the same role. The character was changed to please everyone. 

Valeris was far more assured and comfortable a character than Saavik. Indeed, Cattrall brings a notable, enjoyably smug energy to the role, allowing Valeris to stand up to characters like Spock (Leonard Nimoy) and Captain Kirk (William Shatner). She was meant to be a protégé of Spock, poised to take over the Enterprise's science station when Spock retired. According to the book "The Fifty-Year Mission: The Complete, Uncensored, Unauthorized Oral History of Star Trek: The First 25 Years," edited by Mark A. Altman and Edward Gross, Cattrall claimed she was allowed to invent her character pretty much from the ground up. She chose Valeris' unusual hairdo and color. She even said she chose the character's name (with some input from Nicholas Meyer). 

Eris, the goddess of Discord

The name "Valeris," it seems, was a portmanteau, combining the name of a Greek deity with some Vulcan gibberish that Meyer came up with. Cattrall said:

"I took the name 'Valeris' from the Greek god Eris, the god of strife. And we dropped the vowel because it sounded more Vulcan. I felt it was very much my own. I don't think she's like the other women in 'Star Trek.' In the sixties, they were mostly beautiful women in great-looking, tight outfits with fabulous makeup and hairdos, more set decoration than real motivators in the mechanics of the plot." 

In many ways, the original "Star Trek" was a very progressive show, but it inarguably had a sexist streak a mile wide. There were a lot of female characters who clearly existed as sex objects for Roddenberry's vivid fantasies. Cattrall had a point. It wouldn't be for many years that "Star Trek" would take on a more feminist bent. Cattrall also said elswhere in "The Fifty-Year Mission," however, that despite Valeris being stronger and more capable than the "eye candy" women of the 1960s, she also kind of wished she got to wear a traditional "Star Trek" miniskirt.

Kim Cattrall also says she was the one who suggested her Vulcan hair to Nicholas Meyer. It seems that Cattrall wanted to find a look that was similar to Spock, while still being her own. Hence the dark hair (like Spock) and a cut that would accentuate her pointed Vulcan ears.

And she really did it, too

If anyone doubts that Cattrall didn't actually dye her hair or shave her head — for those who think she wore a wig — I encourage you to seek out the 1992 Rutger Hauer monster cheapie "Split Second." Clearly, that film was shot around the same time as "Star Trek VI," as Cattrall still has the same shaved-sideburns hairdo. See the picture above for evidence. 

Of her Valeris hair, Cattrall said: 

"I wanted a very definitive Vulcan woman. I was a warrior. I wanted a bold look to make it very different from what had come before. I came in to Nick after everything was settled and I said I want to have traces of Leonard, so I dyed my hair black and had it done very sixties and shaved my sideburns, because I felt my ears would look much stronger. I was a revolutionary and I wanted my appearance to reflect that. The great thing about the hairdo was the way I could sort of surreptitiously put it behind my ear and that was really fun."

Of course, Cattrall's performance was the more intriguing aspect of Valeris, and her natural assurance on camera informed her character. Her seeming professional defiance also proved to be a bluff, as the plot would dictate that she be involved in a secret plot. Cattrall's presence made Valeris an invaluable addition to the film. 

Although "Star Trek" makeup is usually carefully guarded, Cattrall said she got to keep some of hers after shooting wrapped. "I've kept all my ears," she said. "It's a wonderful memory of having done the movie." 

THEN AND NOW: How 19 characters from 'Star Trek: The Original Series' have evolved over 56 years

• "Star Trek" premiered on September 8, 1966.
• Almost 57 years later, "Trek" is still going strong and finding ways to reinvent old characters.
• Here's how 19 characters from " The Original Series " have evolved over almost six decades.

Captain James T. Kirk was originally played by William Shatner.

Shatner played the first (and arguably most iconic) captain of the Enterprise for for all three seasons of "The Original Series" ("TOS") which aired from 1966 to 1969, before getting canceled.

He returned to voice the character in " Star Trek: The Animated Series " from 1973 to 1974.

Kirk remains many people's favorite captain of the Enterprise and "Trek" captain in general, as he set the blueprint for the next 57 years (and counting) of storytelling. Every "Trek" captain is measured against Kirk and Shatner's portrayal of him.

Shatner was last seen in the 1994 film "Star Trek Generations."

Shatner and the rest of the original crew starred in six movies starring the cast of "TOS" from 1979 to 1991 ("Star Trek: The Motion Picture," "Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan," "Star Trek III: The Search for Spock," "Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home," "Star Trek V: The Final Frontier," and "Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country").

However, to bridge the gap between " TOS " and "The Next Generation" ("TNG"), which aired from 1987 to 1994, Shatner reprised his role as Kirk in " Star Trek Generations ," the first movie starring the cast of " TNG ." In it, he teams up with the captain of the Enterprise 100 years in the future, Captain Jean-Luc Picard, to defeat a madman called Soran.

Spoilers for a 29-year-old movie, but Captain Kirk dies at the end of the film after helping to take down Soran, simply stating "It was fun. Oh my,"  before closing his eyes.

Additionally, archival footage and audio of Shatner has been used in "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine" ("DS9") in 1996, "Star Trek: Enterprise" in 2005, and "Star Trek: Short Treks" in 2019.

In 2009, Chris Pine took over the role. He played Kirk for three films, and counting?

In 2009, director JJ Abrams rebooted " Star Trek " by creating an alternate timeline (called the Kelvin timeline by fans) and re-casting an entirely new crew of the Enterprise, led by a bolder, brasher, and younger version of Kirk played by Pine.

Pine's version of Kirk started as a bar-fighting 25-year-old living Iowa, and by the end of "Star Trek Beyond" in 2016, he was a decorated captain and was newly dedicated to his mission to explore strange new worlds, seek out new life and new civilizations, and boldly go where no one has gone before.

Surprise news of a fourth Kelvin movie was reported in 2021 by Deadline, directed by "WandaVision's" Matt Shakman.

But in 2022, Shakman left the project to direct Marvel's "Fantastic Four," leaving Paramount looking for a new director to handle "Star Trek 4," according to a statement from the studio reported by Deadline.

In the latest "Trek" series, "Strange New Worlds," the Kirk torch was passed to "Vampire Diaries" vet Paul Wesley.

In "Trek's" latest show, " Strange New Worlds ," which is a prequel to the '60s series, audiences got their first glimpse at yet another version of Kirk, this time played by "The Vampire Diaries" star Wesley , in 2022.

"Strange New Worlds" focuses on the captain of the Enterprise  before  Kirk, Captain Christopher Pike, who is fated to be brutally disfigured in the future. In an attempt to avoid his fate in the season one finale, Pike is transported to a different timeline where he survives, which is where he meets Kirk, now the captain of a ship called the Farragut. Eventually, Pike is returned to his normal timeline.

In season two, audiences met  another  alternate version of Kirk in the third episode, before finally getting to meet the future captain for real in the sixth episode, where he met his future first officer, Spock.

Kirk's best friend and first officer Spock was originally played by Leonard Nimoy.

Spock, an alien race in the "Trek" universe known as a Vulcan, was known for being extremely logical (to a sometimes frustrating extent), and was frequently bewildered by his human crew, even though he was actually half-human himself.

Spock, and his Vulcan hand greeting accompanied by the phrase "Live long and prosper," is one of the most enduring symbols of "Trek" as a whole.

Nimoy played Spock for all three seasons of the '60s series, and voiced him in "The Animated Series" as well.

His last appearance in the role was the 2013 film "Star Trek Into Darkness."

Nimoy appeared in all six movies as the unflappable Vulcan (though he does die at the end of " Star Trek II " and is subsequently resurrected in " Star Trek III "), and even directed the third and fourth movies.

After that, Nimoy reprised his role as Spock in a season five episode of "TNG" called "Unification" in 1991, which saw him 100 years after the events of "TOS" as a Vulcan ambassador. He also appeared in episodes of "DS9," "Discovery," and the animated series "Star Trek: Prodigy" through archival footage and audio throughout the '90s and 2000s.

Nimoy was the only cast member of the original "Trek" to appear in the Kelvin timeline movies — in it, his version of Spock was pulled into this universe by a vengeful Romulan (another alien) to see the destruction of his home planet. He appeared in the 2009 film and its 2013 sequel.

Nimoy died in February 2015 at the age of 83.

He co-starred in the 2009 reboot and its 2013 sequel with a younger version of his character played by Zachary Quinto.

As Nimoy played the  original  Spock, Quinto played the Kelvin timeline's Spock. This version of the character is earlier along in his journey towards understanding humanity, and clashes with Kirk, instead of acting like best friends as they are in the original show.

Quinto appeared in all three films as Spock, and even got to try his hand at the iconic "Khan" scream in "Into Darkness."

In "Star Trek: Discovery" and "Star Trek: Strange New Worlds," Ethan Peck now plays the logical Vulcan.

Peck first played an even younger  version of Spock in the Paramount+ series "Discovery" in 2019, where he interacted with never-before-known-about half-sister Michael Burnham (Sonequa Martin-Green). He then became a series regular on "Strange New Worlds" as Captain Pike's science officer and friend in 2022.

Spock is one of the few people aboard the Enterprise who knows about Pike's eventual fate, showing how close he was to his first commanding officer even before Kirk.

Kirk's other best friend and the Enterprise's chief medical officer Leonard "Bones" McCoy was originally played by DeForest Kelley.

Bones, as Kirk called him, represented the total opposite of Spock. Where Spock was ruled by reason and logic, McCoy was prone to passionate outbursts and was always concerned for Kirk and his friends.

And, famously, he was quick to remind everyone on board that he was just a doctor, not anything else.

Kelley, like his cast-mates, appeared in all three seasons of "TOS" and both seasons of "The Animated Series."

His last appearance in the role was the 1991 film "Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country."

Kelley appeared in the six movies starring the cast of "TOS," ending with his appearance in "Star Trek VI" in 1991. This was also his last on-screen film role, as he died eight years later in 1999.

In 1987, Kelley was on hand to bless the cast of "TNG" by appearing in that show's pilot episode as Admiral McCoy, a much older version of the character (137 years old, to be exact). He speaks with Data about how the Enterprise will always bring you home.

Kelley died at age 79 in June 1999 , according to an obituary in The Washington Post.

Karl Urban played the good doctor in the reboot trilogy, beginning in 2009.

The 2009 film showed the meeting of Kirk and his future best friend on board a ship to Starfleet Academy — and explains how he got his nickname: He split from wife and his ex got everything in the divorce, leaving him with just his "bones."

Urban appeared in all three films of the Kelvin trilogy.

Nichelle Nichols played the Enterprise's communications officer, Nyota Uhura.

Nichols became a Black pop culture icon when she began playing Uhura, a communications officer, in the 1960s. She was one of the first Black women on TV to hold a high-ranking job, and was part of the first televised interracial kiss .

In fact, she was going to quit, but none other than Martin Luther King Jr. told Nichols she couldn't leave. "You have the first non-stereotypical, non-menial role on television. You have created strength and beauty and intelligence. For the first time, the world sees us as we should be seen. It's what we're marching for. You're a role model and whether you like it or not, you belong to history now," Nichols said he told her during an interview with the New York Post in 2011.

Nichols appeared in all three seasons of "TOS" and in " The Animated Series."

Her last appearance was also "The Undiscovered Country."

Along with her fellow cast-mates, Nichols appeared in all six "TOS" movies, wrapping up Uhura's experience in "Star Trek VI."

Nichols' face and voice also popped up in a 1996 episode of "DS9" and a 2022 episode of "Prodigy" via archival footage and audio.

Nichols died in July 2022. She was 89.

In the 2009 reboot, Zoe Saldaña played Uhura.

Saldaña played a version of Uhura straight out of the Academy, just like Kirk. She was a lot feistier than her '60s counterpart, and was one of the high points of the Kelvin trilogy.

Her character was also in a relationship with Spock, which was a marked departure from "TOS" and its movies.

In "Strange New Worlds," Celia Rose Gooding plays a younger version of Uhura who is still an ensign.

In "Strange New Worlds," fans learned that Uhura was actually on the Enterprise before Kirk, McCoy, Scotty, Chekov or Sulu, as a cadet under the leadership of Captain Pike.

Throughout the first season, we learned more about Uhura than we ever did in the '60s, including that she joined Starfleet after the death of her parents on Earth and was trying to escape how lonely she was on her home planet.

While she thought about leaving the Enterprise at the end of season one, in season two we learned she stuck around and was even promoted to ensign. Fans also learned that she was the one who inititally introduced Kirk and Spock.

Chief engineering officer Montgomery "Scotty" Scott was played by James Doohan.

Even if you've never seen "Trek," chances are you've heard the phrase "Beam me up, Scotty" (although it's never actually said on the show).

Doohan, who is actually American, played the Enterprise's trusty Scottish chief of engineering for all three seasons of "TOS" and the two seasons of "The Animated Series."

His last appearance was a small role in the 1994 film "Star Trek Generations."

Before " Generations ," Doohan played Scotty in the first six "Trek" films. He also appeared in a fan-favorite episode of "TNG" in 1992 called "Relics," which saw Scotty return to the Enterprise after 100 years of being stuck in the transporter (classic "Trek" science).

But his last on-screen appearance as Scotty was in the first couple scenes of 1994's "Generations" when he, Kirk, and Chekov are brought on board the Enterprise-B to help christen it. In classic Scotty fashion, he's able to help save the day, though he does witness the apparent death of his friend Kirk who was actually pulled into an alternate dimension called the Nexus. It's complicated.

Doohan is also seen in archival footage and heard in archival audio in episodes of "DS9" in 1996 and "Prodigy" in 2022.

Doohan died in July 2005 at age 85 , NPR reported.

A new generation of fans got to know Scotty through Simon Pegg's performance.

Pegg, who also co-wrote 2016's "Star Trek Beyond," first debuted in the 2009 film as a member of Starfleet banished to a remote, icy base with a new small alien friend named Keenser. He meets Kirk and the two bond as they make a break for the Enterprise. Pegg reprised his role in the two sequels.

And, in "Trek" tradition, he also wasn't actually Scottish.

We first saw Scotty's hand and and heard his voice in the season one finale of "Strange New Worlds."

As previously explained, the 2022 season one finale of "Strange New Worlds" saw Pike transported to an alternate future aboard the Enterprise. In one scene, we see Spock attempt to repair the damaged ship, and he's assisted by an unseen engineer with a very  familiar red shirt and Scottish accent.

However, in "Strange New Worlds'" primary timeline, the chief engineering officer was first an alien named Hemmer who (spoiler) dies in the penultimate episode of season one. He was then replaced by Pelia, another alien, in season two.

But still, fans who know that Scotty is coming to the Enterprise were excited to hear him, if just for a few moments.

In season two of "Strange New Worlds," a Scottish actor finally got to play Scotty: Martin Quinn. It only took 57 years.

Scotty was first teased in season one with a voice cameo, but fans got to meet him for real in the 2023 season two finale, "Hegemony." And now, he's finally played by someone who's actually from  Scotland, an actor named Martin Quinn, as Polygon reported .

While it may be a new actor, this Scotty has the same resourcefulness as both Doohan and Pegg's versions of the character.

Hopefully, we'll see more of him in season three.

Hikaru Sulu, as played by George Takei, appeared through the original series as the ship's helmsman.

Takei played Sulu, the senior helmsman of the Enterprise for all three seasons of "TOS" and voiced the character in "The Animated Series."

Sulu, as portrayed by Asian-American Takei, was a large step forward in terms of Asian representation — at the time, many Asian actors were forced to play untrustworthy people or straight-up villains. Or, indeed, many Asian parts were played by American actors in yellow face (see "Breakfast at Tiffany's").

Sulu, by contrast, was shown to always be an upstanding member of the crew.

Takei's last appearance as Sulu was in a 1996 episode of "Star Trek: Voyager" entitled "Flashback."

By the time of Sulu's last appearance in "Star Trek," he had become a captain of a starship himself, the Excelsior, as seen in both "Star Trek VI" in 1991 and his final on-screen appearance as Sulu in an episode of "Voyager" five years later called "Flashback."

"Flashback" is, fittingly, a flashback to the events of "Star Trek VI" as seen by a member of the crew, Tuvok, who was apparently serving on board the Excelsior at the time.

Takei's voice can also be heard during a 2019 episode of "Short Treks" via archival audio. He also reprised his role one more time during a season three episode of the animated series "Lower Decks" in 2022.

While not Takei himself, Sulu's daughter Demora has a small role in "Generations" as an ensign on the Enterprise-B, played by Jacqueline Kim.

John Cho played Sulu in the rebooted film series, and gave the character a new back story.

To honor Takei's real-life sexuality, Sulu was revealed to have a husband during the events of "Beyond" in 2016. His daughter, presumably Demora, is also seen in the film. Takei, however, didn't approve of making Sulu gay , he told The Hollywood Reporter in 2016.

Cho was also in 2009's "Star Trek" and 2013's "Into Darkness." He even got to nod to the character's love of fencing on "TOS" during a scene in the 2009 film.

Walter Koenig played Russian ensign Pavel Chekov. He joined in the second season of the original series.

Koenig didn't join the crew of the Enterprise until season two, when creator Gene Roddenberry decided that they needed a younger character who could appeal to teenage audiences. So, they slapped a Davy Jones wig on Koenig, and there was Chekov.

At the time, it was a huge deal to have a Russian hero on an American TV show during the Cold War, as History outlined.

Koenig appeared in the second and third seasons of "TOS," but due to budgetary restrictions, was not in "The Animated Series." Koenig did, however, write one episode of the show called "The Infinite Vulcan."

His last appearance as the character was in "Star Trek Generations" in 1994.

Koenig appeared in the first six "Trek" films with the cast of "TOS." Then, three years after "Star Trek VI" in 1991, Koenig, along with James Doohan and William Shatner, appeared in "Generations" to christen the Enterprise-B.

Besides that, Chekov is also seen in archival footage during an episode of "DS9," and was heard during the finale of "Star Trek: Picard" in 2023.

The late Anton Yelchin took over as Chekov from 2009 to 2016.

Yelchin was part of the main cast of the 2009 reboot and its two sequels. He died in June 2016 at the age of 27 in a freak accident.

The final Kelvin film (as of now), "Beyond," was released in July 2016, just a few weeks after his death. As Bustle reported, the film was subsequently dedicated to both Yelchin and Leonard Nimoy , who died in 2015.

If a fourth Kelvin film  does  come to fruition, the creative team confirmed to The Wrap that Chekov would not be recast.

Fans of the franchise who watched "Star Trek: Picard" know that, as a nod to Yelchin, it was revealed that Chekov's son, Anton Chekov, is the president of the Federation — and he was voiced by Koenig himself.

Christine Chapel, played by Majel Barrett, worked under Dr. McCoy as a nurse.

As we'll see later, Chapel wasn't the first character Barrett played in "Trek." In the original (un-aired) pilot, Barrett played Number One, the first officer to Captain Christopher Pike.

But, when the show was taken in a different direction, Barrett was re-cast as Nurse Chapel, a nurse with a little bit of a crush on Spock.

Chapel appeared in all three seasons of "TOS" and in both seasons of "The Animated Series."

In 1969, after "TOS" was canceled, Barrett wed "Trek" creator Gene Roddenberry.

Barrett returned for the films "Star Trek: The Motion Picture" (1979) and "Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home" (1986).

Chapel only appeared in two of the "TOS" films: in the first as part of the main crew in 1979 and in the fourth in a small, cameo-like appearance in 1986.

Although Chapel never appeared in any of the "Trek" spin-off shows, Barrett did. She had a recurring role on "TNG" as Lwaxana Troi, the mother of the Enterprise's counselor Deanna Troi. Lwaxana was in five episodes.

Barrett could also be  heard  on three of the spin-offs: Her voice was used as the ship's computer in "TNG," "DS9," and "Voyager" for hundreds of episodes altogether.  Her voice is also the computer in "Generations," "Star Trek: First Contact," "Star Trek: Insurrection," "Star Trek: Nemesis," and posthumously in the 2009 reboot film and "Star Trek: Picard."

Barrett died in December 2008. She was 76 , The New York Times reported.

Nurse Chapel is only mentioned in the reboot trilogy, but she has a main role in "Strange New Worlds," played by Jess Bush.

Chapel gets a passing mention in both "Star Trek" and "Into Darkness" as an ex of Kirk's, but is never seen. By the time Bush began playing a younger version of her in "Strange New Worlds" in 2022, Chapel had been missing from our screens for 36 years.

Bush's portrayal of the character is instantly iconic. She's super-smart, capable, sassy, and altogether a lot of fun. Fans are also learning more about the relationship between Spock and Chapel's relationship, which is only hinted at during "TOS."

Yeoman Janice Rand, played by Grace Lee Whitney, only appeared in the first season of the original series.

Whitney played Yeoman Rand in just the first season of "TOS." Decades later, Whitney claimed she was written off the show after she was sexually assaulted by a producer , which The Washington Post reported in Whitney's obituary.

Her character seemingly had a relationship with Kirk, but it was never truly discussed.

Whitney made her last appearance in the "Trek" universe in "Flashback," a 1996 episode of "Voyager."

Whitney, after a dedicated effort by the Trekkies, was brought back for the first, fourth, and sixth "Trek" films in 1979, 1986, and 1991 respectively, though in a small role. In the sixth movie, specifically, she was seen as part of Captain Sulu's crew on the Excelsior.

Her last appearance as Rand was in the 1996 "Voyager" episode "Flashback," which flashes back to the events of the sixth "Trek" movie, "The Undiscovered Country."

Rand has yet to appear in neither in the Kelvin timeline films nor any of the Paramount+ series.

Whitney died in May 2015 at the age of 85 , reported The Washington Post.

Bibi Besch made her debut as Carol Marcus, an old flame of Kirk's, in "Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan" in 1982.

Besch only appeared in one "Trek" movie, but her role as Marcus was significant. In it, viewers found out that Kirk had had a significant relationship with her, and had even unknowingly fathered a son with her, David.

Ultimately, Besch never reprised her role as Marcus, although David went on to appear in "Star Trek III."

However, Marcus did get a passing mention in the season two finale of "Strange New Worlds" in 2023 as just Kirk's pregnant girlfriend Carol.

She died in September 1996 at the age of 54 , according to The New York Times.

Alice Eve played a version of the character in the 2011 film "Star Trek Into Darkness."

In "Into Darkness," Eve took on the role of Marcus, and we see Kirk and Marcus meet, although there's definitely  not  a romantic relationship happening at that time.

During the movie, it's revealed that Marcus' father is a Starfleet admiral (and war hawk) who is secretly preparing for a war with the Klingons.

Marcus didn't appear in "Beyond" because, according to screenwriter Simon Pegg, there simply wasn't enough for her to do , he said on an episode of "Engage: The Official 'Star Trek' Podcast" in 2016.

Booker Bradshaw played Dr. Joseph M'Benga, another doctor aboard the Enterprise, in two episodes of the original series.

Bradshaw played another doctor aboard the Enterprise for two episodes: the season two episode "A Private Little War" and the season three episode "That Which Survives."

That was it for Bradshaw, and we never got to learn more about the character.

Bradshaw died in April 2003 at the age of 62 , according to the British Film Institute.

Babs Olusanmokun has a starring role in "Strange New Worlds" as a younger version of the character.

When the cast list of "Strange New Worlds" was announced in 2021 , you might have been surprised (and excited) to see that the Enterprise's chief medical officer wouldn't be Dr. McCoy, but instead Dr. M'Benga.

Over the course of the first season, we learned that M'Benga is a widower and has a daughter, Rukiya, who has an incurable, degenerative disease. We also learn that he's just as capable as Bones ever was.

In season two, we learned even more about M'Begna, including his past experiences as a soldier in the Klingon-Federation War.

Jeffrey Hunter and Sean Kenney played two different versions of Captain Christopher Pike, the captain of the Enterprise before Kirk.

Originally, "Star Trek" was supposed to be the story of Captain Pike aboard the starship Enterprise, played by Hunter. He starred in a pilot, called "The Cage," that was rejected by the network, which is how we ended up with our beloved Captain Kirk and William Shatner.

But instead of letting that footage go to waste, it was repurposed for a "TOS" episode called "The Menagerie," which sees a severely disfigured and disabled Pike (now played by Kenney) return to a planet called Talos IV, where he can live out the rest of his life under the illusion he's been cured, with the help of Spock.

Kenney played two other characters during "TOS" in the episodes "Arena" and "A Taste of Armageddon."

According to The New York Times, Hunter died in 1969 at the age of 42.

Bruce Greenwood played an altered version of the character in 2009's "Star Trek" and 2011's "Star Trek Into Darkness."

In the 2009 reboot and its immediate sequel, Greenwood plays a version of Pike pre-horrible accident, who convinces Kirk to enlist in Starfleet and mentors the young captain.

His fate in "Into Darkness" (read: his death at the hands of Benedict Cumberbatch's character), is very different than his TV counterpart's.

Anson Mount first appeared in "Star Trek: Discovery" as Captain Pike in 2019, and his portrayal was so popular that he received his own spin-off, "Strange New Worlds."

Mount made his debut as Captain Pike in season two of " Discovery " in 2019 as the temporary captain of the Discovery while the Enterprise was disabled. This appearance is at least five years after the events of "The Cage," the unaired "Trek" pilot from the '60s.

During one episode of "Discovery," he reunites with a character from "The Cage," Vina (more on her later), and in another, he sees a vision of the terrible accident in his future that causes his disfigurement.

He departed at the end of season two to resume command of the Enterprise and to star in his own spin-off, "Strange New Worlds," which began airing in 2022.

Mount reprised his role on "Short Treks," also in 2019.

Captain Pike's first officer, Una Chin-Riley, or Number One, was originally portrayed by Majel Barrett.

Before Barrett dyed her hair blonde and played Nurse Chapel, she played the first officer, known only as Number One, in the un-aired pilot of "Star Trek" called "The Cage," which was later repurposed into "The Menagerie."

The character wasn't seen again for over 50 years.

Rebecca Romijn now plays Number One in "Strange New Worlds." She also appeared in "Discovery" alongside Mount.

Fifty-six years after Number One was cut from "TOS," Romijn brought new life to the character when she appeared in "Discovery" alongside Anson Mount as Captain Pike in 2019.

She then began starring on "Strange New Worlds" in 2022, during which it was revealed that Number One is actually a genetically modified alien known as an Illyrian. We then learned that Illyrians are forbidden from joining Starfleet, leading to her arrest in the season one finale of "Strange New Worlds."

Thankfully, she was back on the Enterprise before long in season two.

Romijn also appeared in "Short Treks" in 2019.

Mark Lenard played Spock's father Sarek beginning in 1967.

Lenard makes his first appearance as Spock's estranged Vulcan father in the season two episode of "TOS" called "Journey to Babel." He subsequently voiced the character in an episode of "The Animated Series," as well.

In addition to Sarek, Lenard played a Romulan in another episode of "TOS," "Balance of Terror."

His last filmed appearance as the character was the 1991 film "The Undiscovered Country," though he appeared in an episode of "Star Trek: The Next Generation" that same year.

Lenard reprised the role of Sarek in the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth "Trek" movies in 1982, 1986, 1989, and 1991 respectively, playing a pivotal role in the third movie where he convinces Kirk to retrieve Spock's body in order to reunite it with Spock's soul during a Vulcan ritual.

Lenard appeared in the first "Trek" movie too in 1979, though not as Sarek. Instead, he played an unnamed Klingon commander.

Sarek also appeared in two episodes of "TNG" in 1990 and 1991, one of which was named after him. In it, he develops a close friendship with Captain Picard. His next appearance, "Unification" in 1991, saw him reunite with his on-screen son, Spock. Sarek dies during this two-part episode.

Lenard died in November 1996 when he was 68 years old , according to The Washington Post.

Ben Cross played Sarek in the 2009 reboot.

During a brief scene in the beginning of the 2009 film, and then during a scene where Spock returns to Vulcan, his father Sarek is played by Cross. He did not reprise the role for "Into Darkness" or "Beyond."

Cross died in August 2020 at age 72 , Deadline reported.

Sarek has most recently appeared in "Discovery," as played by James Frain, starting in 2017.

Sarek has a relatively important role in "Discovery," as he's both the father of Spock (who pops up in season two) and the adopted father of the show's main character, Michael Burnham.

It was confirmed in the second season of "Strange New Worlds" that Spock and his father are not on good terms.

Spock's human mother Amanda Grayson was first played by Jane Wyatt in the original series.

Wyatt played Spock's human mother Grayson in one episode of "TOS," the same one that Sarek made his debut in: "Journey to Babel."

Majel Barrett also voiced her in an animated episode, "Yesteryear."

Wyatt reprised the role for the 1986 film "The Voyage Home."

After Spock is resurrected during the events of "Star Trek III," his mother, played by Wyatt, returned for "Star Trek IV" to encourage her son to reconnect with his humanity.

Wyatt died in October 2006. She was 96 , according to The New York Times.

Winona Ryder took over the role in 2009 in "Star Trek."

Much ado was made about how Ryder was cast as the mother of Zachary Quinto, as she was only six years older than him.

But, Ryder only appears in a few minutes of the movie, donning makeup to show age, to briefly reunite with her son Spock on Vulcan before she dies during the planet's destruction.

Mia Kirshner began playing her in 2017 on "Discovery," and has since appeared on "Strange New Worlds."

Kirshner took on the role of Grayson in "Discovery," mainly as the adopted mother of Michael Burnham, though she did connect with Spock once he popped up on that show.

She returned in 2023 during an episode of season two of "Strange New Worlds" to help Spock after he was accidentally turned into a human.

Khan Noonien Singh, one of the most iconic villains in "Trek" history, debuted in an episode of the original series. He was played by Ricardo Montalban.

"Space Seed," an episode during the first season of "TOS," has been named one of the best episodes of "Trek" of all time. Lots of that credit can be given to Montalban's performance as Khan, a genetically modified super-human who tries to take over the Enterprise to bring "order" to the Federation.

At the end of the episode, Kirk chooses to sentence Khan and his people to live on a bountiful planet called Ceti Alpha V, with the intention of telling Starfleet to check in on them in 100 years.

Montalban returned for the 1982 film "Wrath of Khan."

By the events of "Star Trek II," Ceti Alpha V has become a wasteland due to the explosion of neighboring planet of Ceti Alpha VI, and Khan and his people have grown bitter and desperate.

Montalban absolutely steals the show Khan, quoting classic literature, going toe-to-toe with Kirk, and indirectly killing Spock.

But, of course, the crew of the Enterprise prevails and Khan is blown to smithereens.

While adult Khan has not shown up since "Wrath of Khan," a descendant of his, La'an Noonien-Singh (Christina Chong) is a regular on "Strange New Worlds."

The Los Angeles Times reported that Montalban died in January 2009. He was 88.

Benedict Cumberbatch (controversially) played Khan in the 2011 film "Star Trek Into Darkness."

Leading up to the release of "Into Darkness," the creative team and cast swore up and down that Cumberbatch  wasn't  playing Khan , but a different antagonist named John Harrison.

But then, fans watched as it was revealed that John Harrison was a fake name and Cumberbatch was indeed playing Kirk's most famous nemesis, Khan.

This choice generated some controversy , as Khan was described as a person of Indian descent and Montalban himself was Mexican — and Cumberbatch is white, as Screen Rant's Dusty Stowe wrote.

A young Khan from an alternate universe played by Desmond Sivan showed up in season two of "Strange New Worlds" in 2023.

During the episode, called "Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow," La'an is sent back in time to an alternate past in order to save the world, but she doesn't know what event she's supposed to be preventing. She's helped in this mission by an alternate Captain Kirk.

In a cruel twist of fate, La'an is forced to save a young Khan's life, because his death in the 21st century would set off a terrible future — and the alternate Kirk unknowingly sacrifices himself for the person who will one day kill his friend.

Arlene Martel played Spock's betrothed, T'Pring, in a 1967 episode.

During a famous episode of "TOS'" first season, "Amok Time," viewers were introduced to T'Pring, Spock's previously unmentioned fiancée. During the episode, it becomes clear that T'Pring doesn't not actually want to marry Spock, and instead loves a Vulcan named Stonn. After this episode, she's never mentioned again.

Martel died in August 2014 at age 78 , according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Gia Sandhu now plays T'Pring in a recurring role on "Strange New Worlds."

"Strange New Worlds" picks up years before "Amok Time," and, as such, T'Pring and Spock were at first very much in love and each dedicated to making their relationship work, despite their differences.

Sandhu appeared throughout the first season in a recurring role, but after her and Spock's relationship was put on pause in season two, we don't know how much more of her we'll see in the future.

Roger C. Carmel's Harry Mudd is another "Trek" antagonist who has lasted through the decades, appearing in two episodes of the original series and two episodes of the animated series.

Harry Mudd, or Harcourt Fenton Mudd if you prefer, appeared in four episodes across "TOS" and "The Animated Series," always trying to get one over on the crew of the Enterprise, looking for the best angle, and perpetually scamming those around him.

Carmel died in November 1986 at age 54 , according to The Los Angeles Times.

"The Office" star Rainn Wilson put his own spin on Mudd in "Discovery" and "Short Treks."

Wilson brought Mudd into the 21st century when he played the famed scammer in two episodes of "Discovery" in 2017 and in an episode of "Short Treks" in 2019 which he also directed.

In 2021, Wilson was campaigning to bring Mudd back into the fold and have him appear in "Strange New Worlds" at a fan convention, according to "Trek" fansite Trek Movie. Maybe in season three!

Susan Oliver played the lone survivor of a ship crash named Vina in an episode of "Star Trek."

Technically, Oliver as Vina was part of the un-aired pilot "The Cage." Vina was a woman living on Talos VI after a ship crash left her stranded there.

Her plight was then shown in the "TOS" episode "The Menagerie," which told the tale of Vina's first meeting with Captain Pike. The two fell in love while Pike was being held captive on the planet, but when the Talosians realized that humans can't be enslaved, they let Pike and his crew go.

While Pike wants Vina to come with him, she reveals she was heavily injured and disfigured during her crash, and the Talosians have used their powers of illusion to make her appear young and beautiful. She must stay behind in order to keep her appearance as is.

According to The New York Times, Oliver died in May 1990 at age 61 .

Vina appeared in "Discovery" too, as played by Melissa George.

Some time after their encounter in "The Cage," Pike and Vina became telepathically linked to communicate once more after some years apart.

Vina, now played by George in a 2019 episode of "Discovery," reveals to Pike that the Talosians have allowed her to live out her days with an illusionary version of Pike to keep her company.

What neither of them knows, yet, is that after Pike has his accident, he will reunite with Vina on Talos VI so they can both live their own "happy" illusions , as seen in "The Menagerie."

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List of Star Trek Characters

Embark on an intriguing exploration of the beloved Star Trek constellation of characters, seamlessly woven in our specially curated list. From Captain Kirk's indomitable spirit to Spock's logical brilliance, absorb the enthralling essence of these timeless personalities from one of science fiction's most enduring enterprises.

Diving beyond the surface, our list traces the intricate pathways of each character's narrative journey. Grasp the transformational arcs and pivotal roles of these fascinating individuals who have defied space and time and entered the panorama of popular culture.

Our meticulous, well-researched explorations are founded on extensive knowledge providing a broad-view perspective of their strengths, weaknesses, and alliances, as well as the antagonistic relationships within the Starfleet universe. Immensely engaging, this list will satisfy the curiosity of those seeking depth and perspective into their favorite characters while tracing the cherished legacy of Star Trek.

However, this engaging exploration isn’t just a monologue. We want our opinion. Are you fascinated by the stoicism of Jean-Luc Picard or intrigued by the duality of Data? Here, your opinion matters. Cast your vote for your favorite character and become a part of an enriching, collective conversation on this beloved franchise.

Commence your celestial journey with us as you dig deeper into the intricacies and marvels of the Star Trek universe. Participate, discover, and contribute to the shared passion for one of sci-fi’s greatest phenoms. 

James T. Kirk

Captain James T. Kirk, the iconic protagonist of the Star Trek universe, is a highly innovative and passionate leader who never shies away from taking risks. Known for his unwavering dedication to his crew and the ideals of the United Federation of Planets, Kirk's cunning mind, strategic thinking, and exceptional diplomatic skills set him apart from other Starfleet captains. His ability to think outside the box and make split-second decisions in critical situations solidifies his reputation as one of the most legendary characters in the Star Trek franchise.

The half-human, half-Vulcan First Officer of the USS Enterprise, Spock represents the epitome of stoicism, logic, and reason. Often struggling with the dichotomy between his Vulcan and human heritage, he brings an unparalleled level of intellect and curiosity to the crew while grappling with his emotions. His unwavering loyalty and deep understanding of both cultures make Spock not only a vital asset to the crew but also a symbol of unity and harmony between two seemingly disparate worlds. His unique upbringing and commitment to logic have made Spock one of the most beloved and enduring characters in the Star Trek universe.

Montgomery Scott

Affectionately known as "Scotty," Montgomery Scott is the brilliant and resourceful Chief Engineer of the USS Enterprise. With his unmistakable Scottish accent, wit, and humor, Scotty consistently saves the day by performing seemingly impossible engineering miracles. His uncanny ability to push the boundaries of the ship's systems, coupled with his unwavering loyalty to Captain Kirk and the rest of the crew, makes him an indispensable member of the Enterprise. Scotty's optimistic attitude and steadfast dedication to his work have endeared him to Star Trek fans throughout the years.

Nyota Uhura

A groundbreaking character for her time, Lieutenant Nyota Uhura serves as the Communications Officer aboard the USS Enterprise. Her linguistic and interpersonal skills play a significant role in fostering understanding between different races and cultures. As one of the first Black women to hold a central role in a major television series, Uhura broke barriers and shattered stereotypes during the height of the Civil Rights Movement. Her poise, intelligence, and strength continue to serve as an inspiration for women and people of color in the science fiction genre and beyond.

Hikaru Sulu

As the talented Helmsman of the USS Enterprise, Hikaru Sulu is known for his calm demeanor and exceptional piloting abilities. His passion for botany, fencing, and astrophysics showcases his well-rounded personality and diverse interests outside of his Starfleet duties. Sulu's portrayal as a competent Asian character during a time of Hollywood whitewashing broke racial barriers, paving the way for greater representation and diversity onscreen. His quiet confidence, strong moral compass, and ability to navigate complex situations make Sulu a fan favorite and a staple of the Star Trek universe.

Leonard McCoy

Gruff yet compassionate, Dr. Leonard "Bones" McCoy serves as the Enterprise's Chief Medical Officer. A skilled physician with a penchant for metaphors, Bones is often the voice of reason and humanity on the crew, reminding them of the ethical implications of their actions. His tumultuous yet endearing friendship with Spock provides a unique balance between logic and emotion that is rarely seen on television. Despite his grumbles and sharp wit, McCoy's unwavering concern for the wellbeing of his patients and crewmates solidifies him as a beloved and integral character.

Pavel Chekov

The young and enthusiastic Russian navigator of the Enterprise, Ensign Pavel Chekov brings a vibrant energy and eagerness to the crew. With his thick accent and unwavering patriotism, Chekov often serves as comic relief while providing valuable insights and ingenuity in critical situations. His youthful perspective and relentless loyalty to the crew, coupled with his exceptional problem-solving abilities, make him an indispensable and charismatic addition to the Star Trek universe.

Christopher Pike

Captain Christopher Pike, the original captain of the USS Enterprise before James T. Kirk, is a thoughtful and decisive leader with a strong moral compass. Known for his keen ability to judge character and motivate his crew, Pike serves as a mentor and guiding force for the younger members of Starfleet. His willingness to take risks for the greater good and unwavering dedication to the Starfleet ideals set an inspiring precedent for future captains. With his calm demeanor and tactical prowess, Captain Pike remains a revered and influential figure in the Star Trek universe.

A prominent Vulcan ambassador and Spock's father, Sarek embodies the intellect and stoicism characteristic of his race. Though he struggles with the emotional consequences of marrying a human woman, Amanda Grayson, his commitment to diplomacy and the pursuit of knowledge remains steadfast. Sarek's influence on Spock's upbringing is evident in his son's sense of honor and dedication to reason, making him an essential figure in shaping one of the franchise's most enduring characters. Despite his cool exterior, Sarek's complicated relationship with his family adds depth and complexity to his persona, solidifying his status as a beloved Star Trek character.

Amanda Grayson

The human wife of Sarek and mother of Spock, Amanda Grayson is a symbol of the potential for unity and understanding between different species and cultures. Her compassion, empathy, and love for her family serve as a powerful contrast to the Vulcan detachment and logic that often surrounds her. Amanda's influence on Spock is evident in his emotional growth throughout the series, as she encourages him to embrace his humanity and become a more well-rounded individual. Her quiet strength and unwavering love for her son make Amanda Grayson an essential and compelling character within the Star Trek universe.

Starfleet Computer

The Starfleet Computer is an indispensable component of the USS Enterprise, providing crucial information and analysis to the crew in their various missions and adventures. Capable of processing vast amounts of data in mere seconds, this advanced artificial intelligence (AI) system exemplifies the technological prowess of the Star Trek universe. With its neutral yet authoritative voice, the Starfleet Computer serves as a reliable source of knowledge and guidance for the crew, often assisting them in navigating complex situations and overcoming challenges. While not a typical character in the traditional sense, the Starfleet Computer is an iconic presence that greatly contributes to the distinctiveness of the franchise.

George Samuel Kirk, Sr.

The father of James T. Kirk, George Samuel Kirk, Sr., plays a pivotal role in shaping his son's character and values, even though his presence in the series is brief. As the First Officer of the USS Kelvin, George demonstrates bravery, self-sacrifice, and dedication to his crew by staying behind during the evacuation to save countless lives, including his wife and newborn son. His heroic actions leave a lasting impression on Kirk, inspiring him to follow in his father's footsteps and join Starfleet. The legacy of George Samuel Kirk establishes a strong foundation for the protagonist's journey, making him a significant figure within the Star Trek canon.

The Romulans, an enigmatic and cunning race, serve as one of the most formidable adversaries in the Star Trek universe. Characterized by their pointed ears, sharp eyebrows, and militaristic society, Romulans are driven by a desire for power and territorial expansion, often employing deception and subterfuge to achieve their goals. Despite their antagonistic role, the complex and nuanced portrayal of individual Romulans, such as Commander Sela and Senator Vreenak, adds depth and intrigue to the franchise. Ultimately, the Romulans represent the darker side of ambition and secrecy, albeit with glimmers of hope for peace and understanding.

Nero, a Romulan mining ship captain turned vengeful villain in Star Trek (2009) , serves as a testament to the devastating influence of grief and loss on an individual's actions. Driven by the destruction of his home planet and the death of his family, Nero's quest for vengeance against Spock and the Federation leads him down a path of ruthless destruction. His single-minded obsession and disregard for the lives of others makes him a formidable antagonist. However, the emotional backstory underlying his actions also highlights the complexities inherent in all beings, regardless of their race or allegiance.

Nero's wife

Although her presence is brief and mostly in flashbacks, Nero's wife Amandine plays a vital role in the development of Star Trek (2009)'s primary antagonist. Her tragic death during Romulus's destruction serves as the catalyst for her husband's descent into madness and vengeance, fueling his desire to punish the world he sees as responsible. The deep love and devotion Nero feels for his wife are testaments to the character's humanity, providing a glimpse of vulnerability beneath his hardened exterior. As such, Amandine serves as a symbol of the transformative power of love and heartbreak within the Star Trek universe.

Vulcan Bully #1

Appearing in Star Trek (2009) , the character of the Vulcan Bully illustrates the challenges faced by young Spock in his formative years, highlighting his struggle to reconcile his dual heritage. Despite the common perception that Vulcans are solely driven by logic and devoid of emotion, the bullies reveal that even this seemingly stoic race can fall prey to more base instincts such as prejudice and cruelty. The actions of the Vulcan Bully push Spock to explore his human side and ultimately become the multifaceted character we know and love. The presence of this character underscores the complexities that lie beneath the surface of the Vulcan race.

Captain Robau

Though his time onscreen is brief, Captain Richard Robau of the USS Kelvin plays a crucial role in the opening moments of Star Trek (2009) . When faced with the threat of Nero's ship, Captain Robau demonstrates bravery and selflessness by agreeing to leave his crew and board the enemy vessel in an attempt to negotiate peace. His unflinching dedication to his command and willingness to sacrifice himself for the safety of others serve as a prime example of the leadership qualities that define Starfleet captains. Robau's actions set a tone of heroism and duty that resonates throughout the film and the franchise as a whole.

Barracks Leader

The Barracks Leader in Star Trek (2009) serves as an authoritative figure within the Starfleet Academy, responsible for maintaining order and discipline among the cadets. While his role may be minimal, his presence establishes the structured environment and expectations placed upon those training to join the ranks of Starfleet officers. As a supportive figure, the Barracks Leader helps to guide young cadets like James T. Kirk on their paths to becoming the leaders and heroes of the future. His role underscores the importance of mentorship and guidance in the development of the franchise's beloved characters.

Winona Kirk

As the mother of James T. Kirk, Winona Kirk's influence on her son's life cannot be overstated. In the face of tragedy and loss, Winona demonstrates resilience and courage, raising Kirk and his brother in the aftermath of their father's death. Her strength and fortitude in the face of adversity inspire Kirk's own determination and drive to succeed in Starfleet. Although her appearance in the series is limited, Winona Kirk stands as a testament to the power of maternal love and endurance in shaping the lives of her children.

Gaila, an Orion woman attending Starfleet Academy in Star Trek (2009) , is a minor character who adds an element of intrigue to the film. As the roommate of Uhura, Gaila represents the diversity of species and cultures present within the Star Trek universe, particularly within the ranks of Starfleet. Her brief interactions with Kirk and Uhura also serve to showcase her intelligence and ambition, traits essential for success in the demanding environment of the Academy. Gaila's presence, though fleeting, highlights Star Trek's commitment to inclusivity and the celebration of unique individuals from all walks of life.

Admiral Richard Barnett

As the Superintendent of Starfleet Academy, Admiral Richard Barnett serves as an imposing presence and symbol of authority in Star Trek (2009) . His stern demeanor and high expectations for new recruits showcase the level of dedication required for a successful career in Starfleet. Additionally, his ability to recognize potential in cadets, such as Kirk, speaks to his keen understanding of the qualities necessary for leadership. Admiral Barnett's role is essential in reinforcing the discipline, commitment, and determination that define the Star Trek universe's most respected officers.

The Wrong Orion

The Wrong Orion, played by Rachel Nichols in Star Trek (2009), is an intriguing character who serves as an essential catalyst for the film's events, making her one of the best Star Trek characters to date. As the enigmatic and exotic green-skinned beauty, Nichols expertly captures the allure associated with the Orion race. However, she also brings a sense of vulnerability and depth to her character, highlighting the fact that she is more than just a stereotype. The Wrong Orion's presence on-screen not only adds intrigue and excitement to the plot but also challenges our preconceived notions of the Orions, enabling her character to leave an indelible mark on the Star Trek universe.

Ayel, Nero's second-in-command in Star Trek (2009) , serves as a loyal and ruthless supporter of his captain's quest for vengeance. The unwavering devotion he displays toward Nero's cause, even in the face of destruction, speaks to the strong bonds formed among Romulan comrades in their militaristic society. Ayel's fierce fighting skills and cunning tactics make him a dangerous adversary for the Enterprise crew. This character's blind loyalty serves as a stark contrast to the more nuanced relationships and moral compasses exhibited by the protagonists, emphasizing the complexities of friendship and allegiance within the Star Trek universe.

In Star Trek (2009) , Johnny is a childhood friend of James T. Kirk, providing insight into the protagonist's early life and experiences. Growing up in rural Iowa, Johnny's rebellious nature and youthful antics are mirrored by Kirk, offering glimpses of the future captain's defiant spirit and daring attitude. This character serves as a reminder that even legendary figures like Kirk have humble origins, highlighting the potential for growth and development in anyone. Although a minor character, Johnny's role in shaping Kirk's formative years adds depth to the franchise's beloved protagonist.

Kelvin Doctor

The Kelvin Doctor, portrayed by Sonita Henry in Star Trek (2009), is a fantastic character who proves that even small roles can have a significant impact. As the chief medical officer aboard the USS Kelvin, her character represents the compassionate and capable nature of Starfleet medical officers, despite the chaos unfolding around them. Henry's powerful portrayal of the Kelvin Doctor in the opening scenes provides the audience with an incredibly intense and emotional introduction to the rebooted Star Trek universe. This incredible performance cements the Kelvin Doctor as a standout character among the pantheon of Star Trek greats.  

The Iowa Cop in Star Trek (2009) represents authority and law on Earth, contrasting with the interstellar focus of most characters in the series. Encountering a young James T. Kirk during one of his more reckless moments, the interaction between the two showcases Kirk's defiance and struggle to find his path in life before joining Starfleet. The Iowa Cop's presence emphasizes the importance of choices and consequences in shaping one's future, a theme that resonates throughout the Star Trek universe. Though a minor character, his brief appearance reminds audiences that even Earth-bound concerns play a role in the larger narrative of the series.

Med Evac Pilot

In Star Trek (2009) , the Med Evac Pilot's role is small but significant, as he helps transport an injured George Samuel Kirk, Sr. to safety. Despite the chaos and uncertainty of their circumstances, the pilot demonstrates courage and professionalism under pressure. His actions contribute to the foundations of the Kirk family saga and the heroics that would define James T. Kirk's life. In the grand tapestry of the Star Trek universe, characters like the Med Evac Pilot emphasize the importance of teamwork and bravery in the face of adversity.

Lew the Bartender

Lew the Bartender, played by the late Jeremy Roberts in Star Trek: Voyager, is a unique addition to the long list of memorable Star Trek personalities. Providing a human touch within the heart of the Delta Quadrant, Lew's character exemplifies the idea that despite being lightyears away from home, some things remain constant - like a friendly face tending the bar. The engaging storytelling nature of his character manages to create a profound connection between the crew and the audience. Through Lew the Bartender's warm demeanor and quick wit, Roberts brings a sense of warmth and familiarity to the otherwise unpredictable and often hostile environment of the Delta Quadrant.  

Kelvin Helmsman

Kelvin Helmsman, portrayed by Greg Ellis in Star Trek (2009), is an exceptional character you can't help but appreciate. As the helmsman aboard the USS Kelvin, his character showcases a combination of unwavering loyalty and dedication to duty, even in the face of imminent danger. In what could have been a minor role, Ellis manages to imbue the character with a sense of purpose and skill that makes him stand out among the crew. Furthermore, the Kelvin Helmsman's actions under pressure leave an indelible mark on the audience, reinforcing his position as one of the best Star Trek characters of all time.  

Romulan Helmsman

The Romulan Helmsman serves as an integral member of Nero's crew in Star Trek (2009) , expertly navigating the villain's formidable ship through challenging situations. Although not a primary focus of the story, his contributions to Nero's destructive mission hint at the skills and cunning of the Romulan race. As a loyal supporter of his captain's cause, the Romulan Helmsman's role showcases the strength of the bond between comrades in the face of adversity. His presence offers yet another dimension to the complexity and depth of the Star Trek universe.

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Kim Cattrall's Star Trek VI Character Wasn't Created By The Movie's Writers

B efore S** and The City , Kim Cattrall was involved in espionage on the Enterprise. The actress played Lieutenant Valeris in Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country , a role that she had an unprecedented amount of control over shaping. A new oral history of Star Trek reveals, among other things, that Kim Cattrall was free to make up the character of Valeris from scratch-including the Vulcan's "interesting" haircut.

In fact, everything about the character's hair was Kim Cattrall's idea. The actress wanted to dye it black to match Leonard Nimoy's Spock, and that Supercuts do was apparently to better display her signature pointy Vulcan ears. Cattrall even got to name her Star Trek VI character-with some input from director Nicholas Meyer, of course.

If that sounds odd, the role being cast without a name for the character, there's a good reason for that. Another piece of trivia from the book The Fifty-Year Mission: The Complete, Uncensored, Unauthorized Oral History of Star Trek: The First 25 Years is that Valeris was originally supposed to be Saavik.

Star Trek fans will remember Saavik as the Vulcan character originated by Kirstie Alley in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan -also directed by Meyer. Alley failed to return for Star Trek III: The Search for Spock , and the role of Saavik was instead given to Robin Curtis.

When the 6th Trek movie rolled around, it seemed like a no-brainer to have the story's female Vulcan and Spock's protege continue to be Saavik. However, original Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry put the kibosh on Kim Cattrall's character being Saavik, once he found out about her planned heel turn.

In Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country, Cattrall's character becomes a villain after falling in with a crowd of Klingon-hating Federation patriots. In addition to Roddenberry's issue with making one of Trek's heroes into a villain, Cattrall didn't want to be the third actress to play the same character. She preferred instead to craft a completely new character. Enter Valeris.

Kim Cattrall recalls that the name Valeris came from the Greek god Eris, with Meyers adding the "Val" to make it sound more Vulcan. "I felt it was very much my own." Cattrall said of the moniker. The former Police Academy star went on to say that Valeris wasn't, "Like the other women in Star Trek ," and described the women that were on the show in the '60s as "beautiful women in great-looking, tight outfits with fabulous makeup and hairdos."

On the flip side, Kim Cattrall wanted her character to be "a very definitive Vulcan woman" and "a warrior." This is apparently where the infamous "haircut" came from. "I dyed my hair black and had it done very sixties and shaved my sideburns because I felt my ears would look much stronger," said Cattrall. "I was a revolutionary, and I wanted my appearance to reflect that."

The actress was presumably referring to the fact that her character ends up being a saboteur who, along with members of the Klingon and Romulan empires, is attempting to thwart peace talks between the Federation and the Klingons. They, of course, fail, paving the way for an uneasy alliance between the two powers that culminates in the Enterprise D having a Klingon Starfleet officer onboard during the Star Trek: The Next Generation era.

Perhaps the most scandalous revelation involving Kim Cattrall on the Star Trek VI set ( aside from her infamous on-set photoshoot ) is that the actress pocketed a bunch of her prosthetic ears from the shoot. "I've kept all my ears," Cattrall said. "It's a wonderful memory of having done the movie." What would Samantha say?

The post Kim Cattrall's Star Trek VI Character Wasn't Created By The Movie's Writers appeared first on GIANT FREAKIN ROBOT .

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