The Doctor’s holo-novels happened because of Robert Picardo’s book

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As a hardcore Star Trek fan and avid gamer, I can’t help but be completely captivated by the latest developments in the world of The Doctor from Star Trek: Prodigy. Robert Picardo’s portrayal of this holographic character has always intrigued me, and learning about his real-life collaboration with Jeff Yagher on “The Hologram’s Handbook” added a whole new dimension to my appreciation for the actor and the character he brought to life.

WARNING: This post contains spoilers for season two of Star Trek: Prodigy now streaming on Netflix.

Robert Picardo, who played The Doctor on Star Trek: Voyager, penned a novel for the show based on his character. This literary endeavor raised queries about hologram consciousness in the episode “Author, Author.” However, this thought-provoking installment may have never materialized if Picardo hadn’t secured a publishing deal with Simon and Schuster for his satirical book titled “The Hologram’s Guidebook.”

In an interview with Startrek.com, Picardo explained that “The Doctor’s Handbook” is essentially a guide for highly intelligent holograms like The Doctor, helping them navigate a world dominated by organic beings. Although no longer in print, collectors are willing to pay over $100 for a copy due to its scarcity and value.

Picardo wrote the book in partnership with his friend and acting companion, Jeff Yagher. It was Yagher who initially proposed the idea for Picardo to pen down this work.

In fact, it was his idea because I was explaining to him what holograms could and couldn’t do, and because he was playing a rogue hologram in this two-part episode called ‘Flesh and Blood.’ And he kept asking me questions. I told him, “Well, holograms, we can change our [structure], or whether objects can pass through him. The Doctor has control over whether he has density.’ And he responded, ‘You should write a book.’

Robert Picardo

Bragna, Star Trek: Voyager’s executive producer, was surprised to learn Picardo was writing a book. In response, he penned an episode featuring The Doctor also working on a manuscript. This aspect of The Doctor’s hobbies has persisted throughout his character development, as evidenced in the second season of Prodigy where he is still engrossed in creating a holonovel. This connection to Voyager and continuity with characters proved beneficial, adding humor and serving as a welcome distraction for The Doctor on Prodigy.

If Season 3 of Prodigy is produced, The Doctor might have the chance to create a heartfelt holonovela, inspired by true experiences, should Picardo’s character desires be granted.

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2024-07-22 00:23