0
0
The Legacy of Jonathan Frakes in Star Trek
When considering the most influential actors in Star Trek history, one might immediately think of icons such as William Shatner or Patrick Stewart. However, a deeper examination reveals that the true answer to this question likely lies with Jonathan Frakes. Having been a part of nearly every televised Trek production since the 1970s, Frakes has left an indelible mark on the franchise, both in front of and behind the camera.
A Consistent Presence On Screen
Since his breakout role as William T. Riker in The Next Generation, Frakes has regularly made guest appearances in various Star Trek series. Whether reprising his role as Riker, portraying a doppelgänger, or even embodying his villainous transporter clone brother Thomas, Frakes has consistently brought his charm and talent to the world of Star Trek. Notable highlights include his involvement in one of the most memorable fake beard reveals on television, featured in Deep Space Nine.
While Frakes’s on-screen presence has been a constant across multiple series, there have been a few exceptions. Notably, Discovery, Prodigy, and Strange New Worlds have yet to feature Frakes in a guest appearance. However, with the recent revelation that Frakes will not be making an appearance in Discovery’s final season, it marks the end of an era.
A Transition to Behind the Camera
Despite the absence of Frakes on screen in some recent iterations of Star Trek, his influence behind the camera remains strong. Having directed episodes of Discovery since its inception, Frakes will continue to leave his mark on the series by directing the penultimate episode of the upcoming season five. This transition highlights Frakes’s multifaceted contributions to the Star Trek universe.
Potential Future Appearances
While Discovery may mark the end of Frakes’s on-screen appearances in the series, there is still hope for future appearances in Prodigy and Strange New Worlds. Prodigy’s setting in 2385 offers a potential opportunity for Frakes to reprise his role as Riker, while Strange New Worlds presents the possibility of a new character or ancestor for him to portray.
As fans eagerly anticipate the premiere of season five of Discovery on April 4, the question remains: what will Jonathan Frakes’s parting gift be to the series? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—Frakes’s impact on Star Trek history is undeniable, and his presence will continue to be felt for years to come.
Image/Photo credit: source url
