Star Trek: Strange New Worlds needs to avoid a grave Captain Pike mistake

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Following a robust finish in its last season, Strange New Worlds‘ third episode showcased an unbalanced performance as it tried to incorporate Star Trek’s more humorous elements. However, amidst the puzzling saga of Spock’s romantic entanglements, a different theme has surfaced: the marvels of 23rd-century healthcare.

In this series, we’ve witnessed Captain Batel (Melanie Scrofano) deal with an unusual parasitic infection, Eric Ortega (Melissa Navia) miraculously heal from an extraordinary Gorn surgery on her abdomen, and Doctor M’Benga (Babs Olusanmokun) attempt to regenerate Ensign Gamble’s (Chris Myers) eyes as if it were a routine procedure – quite astonishing, even for the galaxy.

Despite the increasing number of miraculous events, for certain viewers, these events pose a challenge to the series’ continuity, particularly concerning the disability status of Captain Christopher Pike (Anson Mount).

Could the growing online discussion pose a question: Given the remarkable advancements in medicine today, might the writers of Strange New Worlds be capable of devising a solution to spare Captain Pike from his current disability, which includes using a power-wheelchair and an iron lung, leaving him paralyzed and mute?

In simpler, more accessible language: The issue at hand, which can also be found in fantasy literature, often serves as a disguise for a problematic and revealing ableist attitude. This argument isn’t just about the 23rd century medicine trying to eliminate disabilities (which is problematic on its own), but it seems to stem from the fact that Mount has made Pike so relatable and likable, implying that he “especially deserves a perfect ending.” However, if the character were anyone else, this wouldn’t be an issue. But because we like Pike, this sentiment becomes more pronounced.

For any diehard Star Trek enthusiast, it’s peculiar to put forth such a claim. After all, Star Trek has consistently portrayed disability with the same open-mindedness it brings to other social issues. This reflects Gene Roddenberry’s philosophy, as demonstrated by his response to a reporter who questioned why Sir Patrick Stewart wasn’t given a wig for Jean-Luc Picard in The Next Generation, saying, “No, by the 24th century, nobody will even notice.

In Star Trek’s philosophy, as established by Roddenberry, this isn’t typically the case. However, in the two-part episode “The Menagerie” from The Original Series (penned by Roddenberry himself), Spock – played by Leonard Nimoy – kidnaps Pike (originally portrayed by Sean Kenney) and transports him to Talos IV. On this planet, he resides in a mental sanctuary of sorts, experiencing an illusion where his disabilities appear nonexistent.

In a straightforward and conversational manner: The Menagerie doesn’t shy from portraying disability or its difficulties, even in the advanced medical field where some fans believe that such disabilities should no longer exist. However, it also mirrors the uncertain terrain around disability that was present in The Original Series, as it tends to favor a cure over accommodation.

In The Next Generation, there was significant advancement, and Geordi La Forge (played by LeVar Burton) stood out as a senior officer who happened to be visually impaired. This is a departure from the perspective in The Original Series that blindness might end one’s career. Instead, Geordi is regularly seen using a variety of advanced assistive devices, which underscores the progress made in this area.

In many contemporary shows, characters like Keyla Detmer (Emily Coutts) from Discovery, represent a diverse spectrum of disability depictions. Unlike some stories where injuries or disabilities are miraculously healed by advanced space medicine, her character manages her battle wounds through the use of mechanical implants.

Star Trek frequently explores the intersection of medical progress and health issues, ranging from rehabilitation after Borg assimilation, revival using nanoprobes, cancer cures, to a miracle pill for kidney failure reversal. Interestingly, it also tackles disability, as demonstrated by the portrayal of Captain Pike’s condition in Strange New Worlds.

Strange New Worlds’ first season revolves around Captain Pike dealing with his future and working through his grief. This narrative is designed to end any uncertainty or speculation about his character development and it resembles how many people in real life might cope with a similar situation.

As a movie critic, I must confess that there’s a touch of the familiar trope where disability is used as a sacrifice – Pike, our hero, demonstrates this by selflessly throwing himself on the line to protect his fellow cadets. It’s almost inevitable, given the dire circumstances of an impending war with the Romulans, but one can’t help but question if he didn’t leap into action a bit too quickly, potentially putting thousands of lives at stake.

Embracing this marvelous creation, I can confidently say it feels authentic and functional, resonating with both disabled and able-bodied spectators alike. Overlooking the potential of Pike’s condition in pursuit of a cure might be overlooking a considerable aspect of his character. By doing so, some viewers may unintentionally misinterpret disability, not just in the context of Star Trek, but within our broader understanding as well.

Indeed, there may be a deeper interpretation of Captain Pike’s disability in Star Trek than what was presented in 1966, although it could be argued that society’s understanding and representation of disabilities has not progressed significantly since then. Star Trek is by no means flawless when it comes to portraying disabilities, with the handling of autism on Deep Space Nine being a notable example of its shortcomings.

Indeed, the essence of Star Trek lies in its growth. At its finest, it mirrors our current state, albeit imperfectly, by weaving stories that seem detached from reality due to their sci-fi setting. These narratives are designed to be easier for us to comprehend through abstraction and reflection of our times.

If there is a potential reboot of The Original Series featuring Captain Pike, it might be more authentic, compassionate, and inclusive in depicting disability – embodying the ideal of Star Trek at its finest, reflecting what our present should aspire to. Instead of catering to a narrow view that equates disability with unhappiness, held by some fans, I prefer to see Pike as a reflection of societal flaws rather than perpetuating them.

As a dedicated film enthusiast, I must admit that Star Trek: Strange New Worlds hasn’t dropped any hints yet about exploring Captain Pike’s disability. However, given the current TV landscape where online discussions can have a significant impact and following a season that fell short on inclusivity, I find myself somewhat hesitant to assume it will delve into this aspect of his character.

no. The beauty and humanity of Star Trek lies in its portrayal of diversity, and that includes celebrating the strengths and struggles that come with being human, with or without a disability.

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds is available to stream on Paramount+.

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2025-09-08 15:06