From Actors to Directors: The Evolution of 'Star Trek' Behind the Camera
In the realm of science fiction, Gene Roddenberry's creation of "Star Trek" offered a vision of a future free from racism, poverty, and xenophobia. The series emphasized peace and understanding among different cultures and worlds, setting it apart from other dystopian narratives. As the franchise evolved, actors from the show took on directing roles, contributing to the legacy of "Star Trek."
J.J. Abrams, known for reviving the "Star Trek" film series, made a surprising cameo in the 2009 movie as a police officer pursuing a young James T. Kirk. Similarly, Akiva Goldsman, a director and producer on Paramount+ "Star Trek" projects, appeared in the 2009 film and "Star Trek Into Darkness" in cameo roles.
Lea Thompson, famous for her roles in the "Back to the Future" trilogy, directed episodes of "Picard" and also appeared in the series as Dr. Diane Werner. Rainn Wilson, known for "The Office," not only played Harry Mudd in "Star Trek: Discovery" but also directed an episode of the series.
Leslie Hope, recognized for her roles in major TV shows, directed an episode of "Strange New Worlds." Andrew J. Robinson, who portrayed Elim Garak on "Deep Space Nine," transitioned to directing after his time on the show, directing episodes of "Voyager."
Alexander Siddig, who played Dr. Julian Bashir on "Deep Space Nine," directed two episodes of the series and later pursued directing projects outside of "Star Trek." Rene Auberjonois, known for his role as Odo on "Deep Space Nine," directed several episodes of the show.
Avery Brooks, who portrayed Captain Benjamin Sisko on "Deep Space Nine," directed nine episodes of the series and brought his expertise in theater to the show. Tim Russ, who played Tuvok on "Voyager," directed an episode of the series and later directed fan-made "Star Trek" projects.
Robert Picardo, known for his role as the Doctor on "Voyager," directed two character-driven episodes of the series. Roxann Dawson, who played B'Elanna Torres on "Voyager," directed 10 episodes of "Enterprise" after her acting role on "Voyager."
Robert Duncan McNeill, who portrayed Tom Paris on "Voyager," directed episodes of both "Voyager" and "Enterprise." Rob Bowman, who directed episodes of "The Next Generation," voiced the Borg in his episodes. Gates McFadden, known for her role as Dr. Beverly Crusher on "The Next Generation," directed an effects-heavy episode of the series.
Michael Dorn, famous for playing Worf, directed episodes of "Deep Space Nine" and "Enterprise." LeVar Burton, known for Geordi La Forge, directed numerous episodes across "Star Trek" series. Jonathan Frakes, who portrayed Will Riker, directed the most episodes of "Star Trek" and also directed feature films in the franchise.