The iconic universe of “Star Trek” welcomes a fresh narrative with the debut of “Star Trek: Starfleet Academy.” The series, featuring Holly Hunter as Captain Nahla Ake, premieres two episodes on Paramount+ on March 15, 2024. Set in the 32nd century, the show introduces the first class of cadets at Starfleet Academy in over a century, highlighting their journey to become future officers.
Captain Nahla Ake, who is half-alien and half-Lanthanite, serves as both the captain of the USS Athena and chancellor of Starfleet Academy. In a recent virtual press conference, Hunter discussed the core themes of the series, emphasizing that stories often revolve around conflict and evolution.
“Stories are always about conflict, a world is in flux,” Hunter explained. “We have stories about broken worlds and how we are going to evolve from that — because we’re always in a state of change. ‘Starfleet Academy’ is constantly examining that flux.”
The series begins with the Federation in a significant transition, following an event known as The Burn that occurred 125 years prior. Hunter noted that the narrative explores how the organization must adapt to its new reality.
“What’s so cool is this is the first ‘Star Trek’ iteration focused exclusively on the Academy,” she said, calling it a new and exciting chapter for the franchise. The introduction of new actors alongside established ones brings an element of spontaneity and joy to the project, according to Hunter.
Despite being 67 years old and boasting a remarkable career that includes four Oscar nominations and numerous other accolades, Hunter remains enthusiastic about tackling new challenges. She shared her excitement upon arriving in Toronto for filming and seeing the sets that evoke the nostalgia of her childhood.
“The sets alone, from the beginning when I watched it as a kid, were thrilling: The mid-century furniture!” Hunter recalled. “I had that same charge when I walked onto these sets. Right off the bat, it was a shot of excitement for me. A little bit like being a kid.”
Hunter also highlighted that the essence of “Star Trek” lies in its ability to inspire a sense of wonder. “Even though I’m not a ‘Star Trek’ aficionado, it still makes me feel like a child. That’s one of the reasons why a lot of people watch ‘Star Trek’: It gives you a sense of wonder.”
She aims to portray Captain Nahla Ake as a character who embraces change, contrasting the common tendency to resist it as one ages. “Children and youth are about really vivid, not subtle, change. They’re changing all the time — and they don’t care about change,” she explained.
As Captain Ake, Hunter seeks to embody a youthful spirit, despite her character being over 400 years old. “I wanted Nahla to be the opposite of that. Even though I was 422 years old, I wanted to be youthful. I wanted to choose youth.”
With the premiere of “Star Trek: Starfleet Academy,” audiences can anticipate an engaging exploration of youth, change, and the complexities of navigating a transforming universe.
As the series unfolds, it promises to deliver a fresh perspective on the beloved franchise, showcasing not only the challenges faced by Starfleet but also the exuberance of its newest generation of cadets.
