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Star Trek legend Kate Mulgrew is not sold on a Kathryn Janeway series

BBG News

As a long-time Star Trek enthusiast who has followed the franchise since the days of Voyager, I can’t help but feel a mix of excitement and disappointment upon hearing Kate Mulgrew’s recent comments about a potential Captain Janeway series. On one hand, it’s heartening to know that she is still open to reprising her iconic role, yet on the other, it’s disheartening to learn that what has been pitched so far doesn’t quite meet her expectations.

Since Patrick Stewart reappeared in Star Trek with his latest and potentially final series, Star Trek: Picard, in the late 2010s, fans have been speculating about other stars joining similar shows. Ideas range from a Star Trek: Sisko show to a Star Trek: Archer series. There’s also been talk of reviving an old concept – a Captain Worf series – to generate new interest using the same format that Picard introduced.

Yet, the only series that ever had legs that were pitched by fans was the Star Trek: Janeway concept, featuring Kate Mulgrew once again playing Kathryne Janeway. The fandom support for the concept predates, though barely, Mulgrew’s return to Star Trek with the animated series Star Trek: Prodigy.

Ever since then, there has been an increasing demand for Janeway’s comeback in live-action productions. This desire grew even stronger after people saw how impressive Prodigy turned out to be. Although the show’s long-term prospects are uncertain, many fans have been drawn to the loosely continued Voyager narrative and its crew.

Including, but not limited to, Mulgrew.

The enthusiasm for a series led by Captain Janeway persists, but those anticipating its realization might find their expectations unfulfilled. In a recent conversation, Mulgrew discussed the project with Alex Kurtzman, giving it a more substantial basis than mere speculation. However, despite expressing interest, Mulgrew has conceded that what she’s been proposed lacks the necessary appeal.

At the Fan Expo San Francisco held in early December, Rekha Sharma (Mulgrew) was queried by a fan regarding her possible participation in a series similar to Picard, but focusing on Janeway this time. Mulgrew openly addressed the crowd, as reported by TrekMovie.com, somewhat subduing the audience’s excitement, stating;

As a dedicated fan, I’ve been fortunate enough to discuss the potential return of Janeway with Alex Kurtzman himself. To be honest, I’m left in a quandary. The character is beloved, and it’s challenging to imagine a sequel that would truly do justice to her legacy. It needs to be exceptional, but I can’t help but wonder if all the necessary elements are there… For now, I haven’t ruled out the possibility, but there’s so much other exciting content to explore in the Star Trek universe.

It’s clear that Mulgrew hasn’t lost her passion for acting, and there’s still a chance she could land another starring role in Star Trek. Although I’m not particularly fond of Picard or the broader idea, I’ve spent quite a bit of time discussing my appreciation for Janeway during my five years as a writer here. She’s undoubtedly my favorite captain, and I would eagerly watch another series featuring her – if it’s executed well.

To be completely honest, the Prodigy series has met all my expectations for Star Trek, leaving me questioning whether another series is truly needed. Continue with Prodigy, as it has clearly earned its place within the fan base.

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2024-12-07 04:23

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