The Star Trek franchise is currently navigating a period of significant uncertainty. For the first time since 2017, there is no new content in active production. This lull comes at a volatile time for the franchise, as the future of long-time steward Alex Kurtzman remains unclear with his contract nearing completion, and Skydance Media’s merger with Paramount places Gene Roddenberry's legacy in the hands of new corporate owners.
Jonathan Frakes Remains Optimistic About the Franchise
Despite the current production gap, legendary actor and director Jonathan Frakes is not losing faith. In a recent interview on Trek Movie's All Access Star Trek podcast, Frakes shared his belief that the franchise will eventually find its footing again.
While promoting the upcoming PanCAN Purple Stride walk as part of the Trek Against Pancreatic Cancer team, Frakes expressed disappointment regarding the current timing. "I think, sadly, to celebrate the 60th anniversary of our incredible franchise, it seemed very unfortunate that they’ve chosen this moment to not have any new Trek in production," Frakes said.
However, he remains confident in the enduring power of Roddenberry's creation. "Star Trek will resurface; it always has, and it always will," Frakes added, noting that the strength invested in the franchise over six decades is likely to endure.
Navigating Cancellation and Social Media "Trolls"
The recent cancellation of Starfleet Academy—a show Frakes directed an episode for in Season 1—has added to the tension. While one more season has already been filmed and is awaiting release, the future of the series is uncertain. Frakes speculated that several factors could be at play, including "the changing of the guard at Paramount+ and CBS Studios," indecision, or the high costs associated with the show's cinematic production quality.
Frakes also addressed the toxicity of modern fandom, noting that "fan hate" today feels "dimensionally more painful" than it did during his years on Star Trek: The Next Generation. He specifically highlighted the impact of "trolls" on showrunners Alex Kurtzman and Noga Landau.
According to Frakes, Kurtzman and Landau even reached out to inform others that the series was essentially "on ice." The actor noted how unfortunate it is when critics attack a show without having actually watched it.
What Is Still Coming to Paramount+?
While new production has stalled, fans are not entirely without content. Here is what remains on the horizon:
- Starfleet Academy: One additional season has already been shot and is slated for release.
- Strange New Worlds: The final two seasons of the hit series have already been filmed.
- Paramount/Skydance Movies: Early discussions regarding a new feature film are currently underway.
As Commander Riker once famously suggested, he planned to live forever. It wouldn't be surprising if Star Trek follows that same path.
