Armin Shimerman Reveals Who He Thinks Was the ‘Very Best Actor’ on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine

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As a movie enthusiast, I can’t help but marvel at the incredible acting talent that graced the Star Trek universe, particularly on Deep Space Nine, which ran from 1993 to 1999. This series was home to an exceptional cast led by Avery Brooks, Rene Auberjonois, Colm Meaney, Alexander Siddig, Nana Visitor, Terry Farrell, and Michael Dorn. Not only that, but even the guest actors on DS9 were top-notch, with an Academy Award winner among them and other talents like Andrew Robinson and Marc Alaimo shining brightly.

In all seven seasons of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Armin Shimerman showcases his expertise in Shakespeare, works as a writer, and directs episodes. During an interview on The Main Viewer to support Trek Against Pancreatic Cancer, Shimerman mentioned that there’s one former DS9 actor who hasn’t received the recognition he deserves for the exceptional talent he brought to the series.

The “Very Best”

In the show’s entire run, Shimerman singled out Cirroc Lofton, the actor who portrayed Jake, the teenage son of a character, as the most exceptional performer on the series.

In a recent reflection, Cirroc Lofton was singled out by Shimerman as the standout actor from our show. He emphasized that this wasn’t just empty praise – Lofton truly delivered exceptional performances. At the time when I worked alongside him, I didn’t fully appreciate his talents like I should have while watching the episodes. Now, however, I am genuinely astounded by his acting skills; they are nothing short of extraordinary.

Shimerman Draws Comparisons to Another Trek Star

Shimerman further drew a parallel between Lofton and another well-known figure from “Star Trek,” Jonathan Frakes, who portrayed Commander William Riker in “Star Trek: The Next Generation” and its spin-off movies, and later reprised his role as Captain Riker.

I’ve spoken to him, I believe he was just tired before. However, as I watch these episodes, his performances, especially when he’s in the spotlight, are truly remarkable. This is something Jonathan Frakes has mastered over time, and Cirroc now does it too, but it took Jonathan a couple of years to perfect. Cirroc seemed naturally talented, without any pressure or tension. And he genuinely means what he says. Just like Jonathan, Cirroc’s words feel real and come from deep within him. He’s only 16, 17, or 18 years old, and he’s already exceptional,” Shimerman expressed.

Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (1993-1999)

Rotten Tomatoes Critic ScoreRotten Tomatoes Audience ScoreIMDb Rating
91%89%8.1/10

Lofton Now Hosts a Podcast

Jake Sisko, portrayed by Lofton, was only seen in 71 out of the total 173 episodes of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, but he left a lasting impression as the charming son of the captain. He frequently shared storylines with his Ferengi friend Nog, and after that, he teamed up with Eisenberg to co-host a podcast. Currently, Lofton continues to host this podcast with Ryan T. Husk. In 2020, Lofton temporarily reprised the role of Jake Sisko in a web series titled “Alone Together: A DS9 Companion,” which is available online.

Star Trek: Deep Space Nine is streaming on Paramount+.

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2025-04-20 00:53