As a long-time Trekkie, I wholeheartedly agree that both Ensign Harry Kim and Rom deserve their comebacks! While Harry Kim may have been stuck as a forever ensign, his journey from a seldom-used operations specialist to an indispensable crew member showcases the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
1966 marked the beginning of “Star Trek,” an initially modest sci-fi TV series that has since grown into an extensive fictional universe. This sprawling franchise includes movies, live-action and animated series, along with nearly 900 books written about it. Remarkably, a show that almost didn’t make it to air now boasts a vast media empire.
In essence, the captivating technology, stunning spaceship designs, and exhilarating combat scenes in the series and movies are merely the surface; what truly sustains this franchise is its deep, character-driven narratives. The Star Trek universe is teeming with a multitude of characters that span various cultures and backgrounds, making it possible for their personalities, histories, and interpersonal dynamics to be continuously delved into.
In the popular TV series Star Trek, many principal characters have been given more than usual character depth, as their journeys unfolded, we discovered complex pasts and rich personalities. Yet, some powerful figures didn’t get the attention they should have. A few had their arcs prematurely ended, while others were overlooked despite their potential, not receiving enough screen time or acknowledgement.
Not only does the Star Trek universe feature straightforward flashbacks, but it also skillfully uses time travel and different realities. These tools could provide an excellent platform to bring back these 10 Star Trek characters who are due for a return.
10 Natasha Yar
Originally Played by Denise Crosby
Character named Lieutenant Natasha Yar, often referred to as “Tasha” by her admirers and colleagues, plays a pivotal role in the first season of Star Trek: The Next Generation. As the head of security on board Enterprise-D, Tasha is known for her lively spirit, tomboyish demeanor, and fearlessness in her tactical duties. In the series’ third episode, Tasha initiates a romantic interaction with her android coworker, Lieutenant Commander Data, when the team is affected by a mind-altering virus.
Fans have speculated that Tasha’s feelings for Data became more apparent as a virus reduced her restraint, leading her to express a long-held emotion. Similarly, it was evident that Data held a particular fondness for Tasha, whose spirited personality made her highly popular among viewers. It’s no wonder fans were heartbroken when Tasha Yar met an unnecessary end at the hands of the “oil slick” creature in the 22nd episode of the series, titled “Skin of Evil,” during a mission on Vagra II.
Natasha Yar Deserves a Comeback So She Can Reignite Her Unfinished Robotic Romance with Lieutenant Commander Data
In another reality, Tasha’s tragic demise was replaced with a more valiant life in “Yesterday’s Enterprise.” Yet, her untouched relationship with Lieutenant Commander Data, a storyline of great interest, remains unresolved. Even though Brent Spiner reappeared as Data in the latest series “Star Trek: Picard,” it’s unfortunate that Tasha was not included. This leaves room for more intriguing narratives about their connection.
Revisiting the character of Tasha and her interaction with Data could provide intriguing insights into the complexities of a human-AI relationship, given their unique bond that captivated audiences. Although Data lacks emotions in theory, it seems he can develop attachments through pattern recognition within his systems. Examining Tasha’s influence on Data would be an engaging exploration of her potential to awaken this capacity and challenge Data’s mechanical limitations, drawing him nearer to the human understanding of romantic affection.
9 Tuvok
Originally Played by Tim Russ
In the fourth version of Star Trek on television, Tuvok, one of the key crew members aboard the U.S.S. Voyager, serves as a security officer. A defining aspect of Tuvok’s character is his species: he is a Vulcan. Vulcans are known for their ability to control their emotions, which can make them seem almost mechanical, like androids. However, in his youth, Tuvok struggled with emotional outbursts, leading him to be separated for training on logic and self-discipline.
In another possible reality, Tuvok finds himself institutionalized in a psychiatric facility, battling a progressive neurological disorder. Despite the odds, Tuvok’s courageous fight has earned him recognition as an advocate for mental health issues.
Tuvok Deserves a Comeback So His Mental Health Journey Can Offer Futuristic Hope About the State of Mental Healthcare
So far, mental health facilities have been frequently exploited by the entertainment industry as dramatic plot devices, often for shock value. Although mainstream media has acknowledged the inhumane conditions of traditional asylums, it has largely failed to address the ethical dilemmas arising in modern mental health institutions today. Many individuals, unless they’ve had personal experiences with it, remain oblivious to the fact that the current mental healthcare system frequently puts profit ahead of patient care, mistreating patients and even unjustly committing sane people for financial gain.
Showcasing how the 24th century, as depicted in Star Trek, overcame psychiatric financial corruption and developed a more compassionate approach for those requiring institutional care – a reflection of their progressive society – would be both relevant and enlightening.
8 Lieutenant Saavik
Originally Played by Kirstie Alley
In the 1982 film Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, we’re introduced to Saavik, a junior lieutenant with a notable background. She’s a Vulcan and was taught by Spock during her Starfleet Academy days. Later on, she served as a navigator under Admiral Kirk. To the audience, Saavik comes across as a powerful, intelligent, and competent female character that breaks the mold for how women are often depicted in cinema.
Despite being widely recognized as a prominent sex symbol during that period, Kirstie Alley’s character in Star Trek transcended her physical appearance by portraying her beauty as secondary to the storyline, rather than using it as a significant plot device.
Lieutenant Saavik Deserves a Comeback So Her Mysterious Romulan Backstory Can Be Officially Revealed
In official Star Trek productions, Saavik’s background isn’t disclosed, although it’s explored in depth in comics and novels. A cut line from the script of The Wrath of Khan suggests that Saavik, who appears to be a typical Vulcan, is actually half Romulan. She was born on a deserted Romulan colony named Hellguard. It remains unknown why this line was removed, but its hint at Saavik’s past has intrigued fans and seems to have been subtly foreshadowed throughout the film.
In Alley’s performance as Saavik, her emotional expressions, like crying at Spock’s memorial, have been recognized. Given that Vulcans are renowned for their stoicism, it appears uncommon for one to shed tears. Fans have long anticipated more insights into Saavik’s background, and revisiting the half-Romulan aspect of her character could offer an intriguing narrative and pay homage to Kirstie Alley’s acclaimed work in Star Trek.
7 Chakatoy
Originally Played by Robert Beltran
Tugok, initially a Starfleet officer, later joins the rebellious Maquis faction and serves as the First Officer under Captain Janeway on the starship Voyager in the series Star Trek: Voyager. In the animated series Star Trek: Prodigy, we find Tugok assuming the role of a Starfleet captain himself. His story with Captain Janeway begins when an unexpected catastrophe hurls both their ships – one belonging to the Maquis and the other to Starfleet – far into the Delta Quadrant, forcing them to unite and work together to find a means of returning home.
Chakatoy is designated as the First Officer due to his ability to bridge the gap between the two teams. On a more private note, Chakatoy develops a romantic relationship with fellow crew member Seven of Nine, an association that has been met with some skepticism among fans, who believe it came about too quickly and lacked genuine chemistry.
Chakatoy Deserves a Comeback So He Can Receive a More Respectful and Culturally Accurate Characterization
In the series, Chakatoy was an underappreciated character who unjustly became known as the “Native American representative.” Despite holding the second-highest position on the ship, his character development in the script was weak. Instead of showcasing a well-rounded officer, he was often depicted as a stereotypical peacekeeper, frequently uttering philosophical sayings that seemed out of context. Although Star Trek’s endeavors towards diversity and inclusivity are commendable, the handling of Chakatoy’s character was one instance where they fell short.
Chakatoy has been consistently portrayed with inauthentic and misleading Native American representations, earning him the title of one of Star Trek’s most misunderstood characters. The mistakes were so significant that a fake expert on Native American issues was unknowingly hired, who later turned out to have no genuine connection or heritage in Native American culture. More than any other character, Chakatoy deserves a fresh start. A contemporary portrayal should be backed by accurate consultation and showcase personality traits not solely defined by his ethnicity.
6 Yelgrun
Originally Played by Iggy Pop
In 1997, the rock musician Iggy Pop portrayed a guest character named Yelgrun on the television series Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Known for his dry wit and laid-back demeanor, even in serious situations, Yelgrun was a Vorta clone working for The Dominion’s faction of villains. Iggy Pop, who is not only a successful musician with numerous tribute performances and a large fanbase, but also an accomplished actor, excelled in his role as Yelgrun. During his one appearance on Star Trek, Yelgran found himself as a hostage of Starfleet after being involved in a prisoner exchange.
Yelgrun Deserves a Comeback So Fans Can Find Out if He Ever Escapes from Starfleet and Reunites with Ishka
Yelgrun’s destiny as a character remains ambiguous in “The Magnificent Ferengi.” Although he manages to survive the conflict against adversaries, he is captured by the Dominion War instead. As he is being led away, there are hints that he may be forming a friendship with Ishka, a forward-thinking Ferengi female character advocating for gender equality on Feringinar. These unresolved aspects suggest future plot possibilities and offer an opportunity for Iggy Pop to revisit his short but impactful performance.
5 Janice Rand
Originally Played by Grace Lee Whitney
Janice Rand, portrayed in the 1966 original Star Trek series, is a well-rounded character who unfortunately didn’t receive much development before being written off the show prematurely. Rand served as an assistant to the captain, or a “yeoman,” demonstrating competence and compassion. However, the series often emphasized her physical appeal and presented her as an object of male desire, which detracted from her character development. Unfortunately, several storylines involved Rand being harassed or nearly assaulted, which shed light on an important social issue but also positioned her as a recurring victim.
Janice Rand Deserves a Comeback Because She Is a Vibrant Character Who Was Removed for an Unfair Reason
In the Star Trek series, Yeoman Janice Rand was frequently depicted as having a subtle romantic undercurrent with Captain Kirk. This led network executives to urge the show’s writers to eliminate her character so that the captain, known for his charm among women, could pursue weekly romantic entanglements. However, it would have been beneficial to keep Rand on the show due to her appealing and captivating personality. Her inspiring optimism helped maintain a harmonious balance within the crew’s dynamics.
Captain Picard’s subtle, ongoing relationship with Dr. Beverly Crusher on “Star Trek: The Next Generation” and its reemergence in “Star Trek: Picard,” demonstrates that a complex dynamic can exist between Starfleet crew members without compromising the characters’ possibilities for intriguing relationships with others.
4 Ensign Gomez
Originally Played by Lycia Naff
Ensign Gomez, as portrayed in “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” was initially a shy engineering crew member aboard the Enterprise-D. She made appearances in just two episodes of the live-action series before her storyline was discontinued. However, it’s later unveiled in the animated show Star Trek: Lower Decks, which highlights the tales of lesser-known junior officers, that she eventually rose through the ranks to become a captain.
Ensign Gomez Deserves a Comeback So Fans Can Witness Her Rise to the Rank of Captain
At the outset, Ensign Sonya Gomez appears as a jittery, loquacious oddball who unfortunately makes a poor first impression by carelessly spilling hot liquid on Captain Picard during their initial encounter. However, against all odds, Gomez managed to swiftly advance through the ranks, reaching the prestigious position of captain in merely 16 years. The tale of Sonya’s unexpected metamorphosis would captivate audiences as a riveting and motivational account of personal development. It is only fair that fans have the opportunity to delve into the specifics of Sonya’s surprising transformation.
3 Legate Damar
Originally Played by Casey Biggs
Legate Damar, in the expansive universe of the franchise, represents a prominent figure among the formidable Cardassian race – a species known for their impressive and intimidating presence. On the television series, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Legate Damar is portrayed in a moving narrative that transforms him from adversary to protagonist. Achieving the pinnacle of Cardassian military hierarchy, Damar is affiliated with The Dominion – a powerful villain group within this universe.
In “The Changing Face of Evil,” Damar chooses loyalty to his newfound moral principles over the Cardassian army, which leads to his family’s near-total slaughter, leaving behind only one nephew. This act makes Damar seem noble and compassionate in the eyes of viewers.
Legate Damar Deserves a Comeback So He Can Learn That His Sacrifice Made a Difference
In the midst of their ongoing conflict, Damar switches allegiances against The Dominion and launches an attack on them. Unfortunately, during this battle, he is mortally wounded. As he takes his final breaths, he mourns the perceived loss of his home planet, Cardassia, to the hands of the antagonists. Given his remarkable journey from evil to righteousness, it would be fitting for Damar to return in a storyline that allows him a heroic death. An alternative timeline scenario reminiscent of Tasha Yar’s sacrifice in “Yesterday’s Enterprise” could provide a poignant twist on the tragic end of this transformed character.
2 Ensign Harry Kim
Originally Played by Garrett Wang
Harry Kim, a prominent figure in the Star Trek: Voyager series, has gained notoriety and sparked amusing fan memes as the “perpetual ensign.” Initially, Kim was underutilized, serving mainly as an operations specialist with limited responsibilities. However, his onscreen portrayer, Garrett Wang, expressed a desire for more substantial storylines, leading to Kim being given more tasks. Despite this, Harry Kim remained unpromoted beyond the rank of ensign, which is the entry-level position for a fully commissioned Starfleet officer, leaving fans puzzled.
Ensign Harry Kim Deserves a Comeback So Trekkies Can See Him Finally Receive a Promotion
During the span of seven years on the starship Voyager, Ensign Kim remained at his initial rank. This is unusually long for a Starfleet officer, and fans might wonder why he didn’t get promoted. To address this curiosity, it would be engaging to delve into his backstory and eventually witness his breakthrough that leads to a well-deserved promotion. An intriguing spin-off idea could involve him commanding a space station in the Star Trek universe, offering a fresh perspective for the franchise.
1 Rom
Originally Played by Max Grodenchik
In the popular series Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, the character Rom, played by Max Grodenchik, is a Ferengi who frequently appears throughout the show. Despite not possessing the business skills highly regarded among his species, he is an outcast with low self-esteem and minimal aspirations. However, as he discovers his mechanical and engineering abilities, he transforms into a powerful force for good, surpassing even those who once ridiculed him due to his lack of initial success.
Rom Deserves a Comeback Because He Is Star Trek’s Most Exquisite Example of Character Growth
Rom serves as an outstanding illustration of how the narrative of Deep Space Nine is propelled by its exceptional characters. Initially, Rom appears as a typical adherent and henchman for the Ferengi. However, over time, he develops complexity and self-assurance, transforming into a responsible father, spouse, and leader among the Ferengi. A captivating moment is when Rom declares his decision to leave his job at his brother’s bar.
Fans have commended him for the emotionally charged line “I don’t want you to leave,” which underscores the fact that progress in Rom’s life is limited to inheriting the bar. This pivotal moment, along with his continuous growth and advancement throughout the series, showcases one of the most impactful character transformations in the show.
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2024-09-01 23:33