Boldly Defying Expectations: Paul Wesley Reveals Why He Avoided Channeling William Shatner's Star Trek Character

Summary

The portrayal of James T. Kirk in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds by Paul Wesley distinguishes itself from William Shatner's portrayal as he was explicitly instructed not to mimic the original character.

In addition to portraying Kirk from an alternate timeline, Wesley also plays the younger version of Captain Kirk from the Prime Timeline. However, it is his performance as Kirk in season 2 that truly captivated Star Trek fans. Displaying his charm, humor, and youthful exuberance, Wesley established himself as a beloved member of the cast.

Paul Wesley's portrayal of James T. Kirk in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds sets itself apart from William Shatner's iconic performance. Rather than attempting to mimic the original Star Trek character, Wesley brings a fresh approach to the role. In the series, Wesley takes on multiple iterations of Kirk, including those from alternate timelines. However, his primary character is a younger version of Captain Kirk, as portrayed by Shatner in Star Trek: The Original Series. This version of Kirk makes his official debut in season 2 of Strange New Worlds. During an interview on the Inside of You with Michael Rosenbaum podcast, recorded prior to the premiere of season 2, Wesley shares his experience of being directed not to imitate Shatner. Take a look at his quote and watch the clip from the podcast below.

I had a discussion with the showrunners who explicitly advised against imitating the original. We found it amusing, but regardless, I had no intention of doing so. By the way, I have seen The [Original] Series and I believe there is a slightly exaggerated stigma attached to it. When you actually watch the series, you'll see that the character is cool, smooth, and incredibly charming. It all seems very natural if you watch The Original Series.

Paul Wesley's Kirk Won Over Star Trek Fans In Strange New Worlds Season 2

In the finale of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 1, Paul Wesley's portrayal of Captain James T. Kirk in an alternate future timeline was met with skepticism by some fans. Wesley embraced the darker and grimmer version of Kirk from the episode "Balance of Terror" in this unique finale, which prevented him from showcasing Kirk's charm and humor. However, Wesley returned in season 2, episode 3, titled "Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow," as a different alternate version of Captain Kirk. This doomed variant of Kirk discovered a romantic connection with Lt. La'an Noonien-Singh (played by Christina Chong), completely melting the hearts of both fans and La'an with his youthful enthusiasm and good nature.

Towards the end of "Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow," Wesley's Lt. James T. Kirk from the Prime Timeline made his debut, making two more appearances in the second season, including an extraordinary musical episode, a first for the Star Trek franchise. At this point, Wesley's portrayal fully embodied the essence of a young Kirk, effortlessly flirting with La'an, offering assistance to Ensign Nyota Uhura (played by Celia Rose Gooding), engaging in banter with his older brother, Lt. Sam Kirk (played by Dan Jeannotte), and meeting Lt. Spock (played by Ethan Peck) in a pleasing and subtle scene. By the conclusion of Strange New Worlds season 2, Wesley's Kirk successfully won over more fans and cemented his place as a cherished member of the cast. It is hoped that Paul Wesley will make a return in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 3, bringing additional depth to James T. Kirk's character, harmonizing the spirit of William Shatner's performance without resorting to a direct impersonation.

All episodes of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds are streaming on Paramount+.

Source: Inside of You with Michael Rosenbaum