William Shatner, the iconic actor known for his role in “Star Trek,” expressed disappointment over the cancellation of the latest series, “Star Trek: Starfleet Academy.” The show, which premiered in January, was set to conclude after its second season. Shatner voiced his concerns on March 23, revealing his sorrow regarding the franchise’s latest setback.
Shatner Critiques ‘Woke’ Label
Following the cancellation announcement, Shatner took to social media to address the criticism directed at the show. Some fans labeled “Starfleet Academy” as “woke,” particularly focusing on its diverse casting and inclusive storylines. This included the introduction of the first openly gay Klingon character, which sparked debates among viewers.
A Respected Legacy
Shatner pointed out that the original “Star Trek” series, famous for its groundbreaking elements such as an interracial kiss between Captain Kirk and Uhura, could similarly be labeled as “woke” by today’s standards. He remarked that during the original airing, many southern stations refused to broadcast episodes due to their progressive content. “Not much has changed,” he noted.
Background on ‘Starfleet Academy’
- Premiere Date: January 2023
- Cast: Featured Holly Hunter as a lead.
- Reception: Received an 87% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
- Critics’ Opinions: Described as “messy” yet “charming” by reviewers.
Despite mixed reactions, CBS Studios and Paramount+ expressed pride in the show’s ambition and creativity, affirming that the second season will air as planned.
Broader Reactions
The ongoing discussion around “Starfleet Academy” gained traction beyond fans, reaching political commentators. Stephen Miller, former deputy chief of staff under Donald Trump, shared his thoughts advocating for Shatner to be granted creative control over the show. Additionally, Whoopi Goldberg, known for her role in “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” criticized the “woke” backlash, asserting the show’s fundamental message of unity across different beings.
As the series approaches its second and final season, Shatner reflects on the evolution of “Star Trek”. He emphasizes that the franchise remains a personal journey for its diverse audience, reminding fans that interpretation of the series varies widely.
