As Star Trek: Strange New Worlds progresses toward its Original Series era, the cast is focused on meticulously developing the foundational friendship between Captain Kirk and Spock, while maintaining the show's adventurous spirit. "We've had to hold back," Ethan Peck, who plays Spock, told Polygon. "He respects and admires him, but he doesn't quite like him yet." Peck noted that he has consciously tempered overt friendliness to reflect Spock's evolving perception of Kirk.
Paul Wesley, portraying Kirk, shared a similar sentiment, admitting his initial desire to make their first encounter a monumental event. However, he learned from the director that the significance of their relationship would unfold naturally over time. "They're still getting to know each other," Wesley explained. He highlighted an upcoming episode where Kirk and Spock spend considerable time together, planting the seeds for their future lifelong bond. Wesley particularly appreciated a scene where Spock shows vulnerability to Kirk, recognizing it as a key moment that would contribute to their eventual connection.
The series continues to embrace a wide array of genres, from horror to comedy, yet consistently retains its Star Trek identity. Wesley attributes this to the show's core themes of exploration and curiosity. Christina Chong, who plays Lieutenant La'an Noonien-Singh, added hope to that list. "A sense of mission and a sense of purpose," Wesley stated, emphasizing that regardless of the episode's genre, the commitment to imaginative exploration and curiosity remains the unifying thread.
Peck believes the show's consistent Star Trek feel is also deeply rooted in its casting and creative team. "All of us embody some of the aspects of Star Trek and of Gene Roddenberry’s original vision," he said. The writers and designers are credited with maintaining a strong connection to the franchise's core ethos.
The show's genre fluidity has also provided actors with unique opportunities. Chong learned ballroom dancing, Peck worked with puppets, and Wesley found himself exploring multiple facets of Kirk's character. "I've never experienced that before," Wesley remarked about the creative freedom to portray his character in various ways.
As Star Trek celebrates its 60th anniversary, series stars Anson Mount and Rebecca Romijn, as Captain Pike and First Officer Una-Chin Riley, reflected on the franchise's intergenerational impact. Mount expressed his disbelief and gratitude for being part of the franchise, recalling it as a childhood game. Romijn highlighted her role in introducing Star Trek to her daughters, emphasizing the series' optimistic vision of the future. "It's an honor to be part of it," she said.