Discover the Unforgettable Characters of Star Trek: The Next Generation
Star Trek: The Next Generation boasts an extraordinary ensemble of characters, led by the formidable Captain Jean-Luc Picard From the brilliant android Data to the skilled warrior Worf, each member brings depth and intrigue to this iconic series
One of the highlights of Star Trek: The Original Series was its exceptional ensemble cast, and Star Trek: The Next Generation introduced a whole new group of characters who would soon be adored just as much. TNG followed the exploits of the USS Enterprise-D and its crew, led by Captain Jean-Luc Picard (Patrick Stewart), as they continued the original mission of exploring unknown worlds and discovering new life forms. While the first season of TNG had room for improvement, the show made significant strides during its second and third seasons, receiving acclaim from both critics and viewers.
The crew of the USS Enterprise-D went on to become one of the most beloved Star Trek crews of all time, and Star Trek: The Next Generation produced several outstanding episodes of science fiction television. With its captivating ensemble, TNG proved itself as a worthy successor to TOS, contributing to the enduring popularity of the Star Trek franchise. The greatness of the Star Trek universe would not be complete without its remarkable characters and the talented actors who portrayed them, and Star Trek: The Next Generation introduced some extraordinary crew members to the Star Trek lineage.
12 Captain Jean-Luc Picard
With a more authoritative demeanor than Captain Kirk (William Shatner), Captain Picard exuded intellectual prowess in Star Trek. Picard, a proficient diplomat, prioritized exploring all avenues of conversation and compromise before resorting to violence. Although he maintained emotional detachment from his crew, he held a genuine concern for every life and vowed never to abandon anyone. Embracing a fondness for Shakespeare and Earl Grey tea, Picard possessed an unmatched ability to deliver captivating and motivational speeches, as well as scoldings. Patrick Stewart's commanding portrayal and the impactful speeches in TNG cemented Picard's rapid rise as one of the most respected and cherished Star Trek Captains.
11 William T. Riker
As the First Officer, William Riker (played by Johnathan Frakes) took charge of numerous away missions and assumed command of the ship whenever Captain Picard was unable to. While Captain Picard was known for his composed leadership style, Riker was intended to fill the role of the "substitute" for Captain Kirk, the daring charmer who held his friends dear. Throughout the series, Riker engaged in several romantic relationships, but eventually found love with the ship's Counselor Deanna Troi (portrayed by Marina Sirtis). Over time, Will truly embraced his individuality and declined multiple opportunities for promotion in order to continue serving on the Enterprise.
10 Data
The beloved android Data (Brent Spiner) quickly won over fans with his childlike curiosity and charming personality. Dr. Noonian Soong (also portrayed by Brent Spiner) built Data with a positronic brain, enabling him to process calculations at unrivaled speeds. Throughout the series, Data yearned to experience the essence of being human, leading him to explore various avenues such as playing musical instruments, painting, and even performing Shakespearean plays. Notably, some of the most exceptional episodes of TNG revolved around Data, whose presence on the show allowed for captivating explorations of the complexities of human existence.
9 Geordi La Forge
Initially starting in the command division, Geordi La Forge (LeVar Burton) eventually shifted to operations and emerged as the accomplished Chief Engineer of the Enterprise. Despite being blind from birth, Geordi's visor enabled him to perceive a wide range of light within the electromagnetic spectrum. Beyond his prowess as an engineer, Geordi exhibited unwavering determination in solving problems once they came to his attention. Throughout the series, Geordi forged a close bond with Data and often served as a source of insight for the android's inquiries about humanity. Although he occasionally displayed awkwardness and even peculiar behavior in matters of romance, Geordi remained a steadfast friend, an exceptional engineer, and a devoted member of the crew.
8 Worf
7 Dr. Beverly Crusher
Being one of the few Klingons serving in Starfleet, Worf (Michael Dorn) often faced a challenging task of balancing his Klingon heritage with his responsibilities as a Starfleet officer. Similar to most Klingons, Worf held honor and loyalty in high regard, making him an invaluable member of the Enterprise crew. It became a recurring theme to depict the alien-of-the-week overpowering Worf, in order to demonstrate their strength and dangerousness. Regrettably, this portrayal often undermined Worf's true strength. However, Worf would ultimately flourish when he transitioned from TNG to Star Trek: Deep Space Nine following TNG's conclusion in 1994.
Dr. Beverly Crusher (Gates McFadden) exemplified intelligence, competence, and empathy as the Enterprise's Chief Medical Officer. Despite leaving the Enterprise in TNG season 2 to assume leadership at Starfleet Medical, Dr. Crusher returned in season 3 and remained a steadfast presence till the series' end. Her profound compassion occasionally compelled her to challenge Starfleet regulations, even the sacred Prime Directive. Building upon their late spouses' friendship, Beverly and Captain Picard eventually developed a deep emotional connection.
6 Deanna Troi
5 Wesley Crusher
Deanna Troi, portrayed by Marina Sirtis, was a unique being, being half-human and half-Betazoid. Onboard the starship, she held the role of Counselor, utilizing her Betazoid senses to perceive and understand the emotions of others. Troi's innate ability to detect deception proved invaluable to the Enterprise crew, although her telepathic powers occasionally rendered her vulnerable to foreign manipulation. While Troi engaged in several romantic relationships throughout the series, her most renowned and enduring one was with Commander Riker, culminating in their marriage in Star Trek: Nemesis. Despite not always being granted the most compelling material, Troi's character evolved into a captivating figure due to her compassionate nature, setting her apart from her peers.
Being the youngest among the main characters of TNG, Wesley Crusher, played by Wil Wheaton, faced challenges in finding his place on the Enterprise. As the son of Chief Medical Officer Dr. Beverly Crusher, Wesley possessed a brilliant mind and eventually progressed to become an acting Ensign on the ship. While initially desiring to enroll in Starfleet Academy, Wesley later chose to become a Traveler and venture into the realms of space and time. The writers often struggled with developing Wesley's character, resulting in average storylines for him. Nevertheless, Wesley and Wil Wheaton emerged as significant figures within the Star Trek franchise.
4 Tasha Yar
3 Lwaxana Troi
: Despite her brief appearance in the first season of Star Trek: The Next Generation, Tasha Yar (portrayed by Denise Crosby) left a profound impact on both the show's characters and its devoted fans. Serving as the Enterprise's Security Chief, Tasha exhibited remarkable skills in hand-to-hand combat and fearlessly confronted perilous situations. Although Tasha Yar met her demise during a away mission in the episode titled "Skin of Evil," Denise Crosby reprised the role in various alternate versions of the character, including the half-Romulan daughter of an alternate universe Tasha Yar.
Lwaxana (Majel Barrett Roddenberry), the mother of Deanna Troi, appeared in multiple episodes throughout the series, much to the annoyance of Captain Picard. She served as an Ambassador for her home planet, Betazed, and possessed a larger-than-life personality that occasionally embarrassed her daughter. Additionally, Lwaxana made appearances in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Despite her vibrant and joyful presence, she endured personal tragedies. Her first daughter, Kestra, passed away shortly after Deanna's birth, and her second husband, Deanna's father, also passed away when Deanna was young.
2 Guinan
1 Q
Taking up the role of bartender at Ten Forward, the lounge of the Enterprise, Guinan (Whoopi Goldberg) became a trusted confidante for the officers aboard the ship. Being an El-Aurian, Guinan possessed a remarkably extended lifespan and an extraordinary ability to perceive. Her disdain for Q (John de Lancie) was palpable, and her enmity towards the Borg stemmed from their annihilation of her people. It was solely at Picard's behest that Guinan joined the crew of the Enterprise, forming a profound bond with him. As crew members sought solace and guidance, they often sought out Guinan, forging dear friendships in the process.
In the pilot episode, "Encounter at Farpoint," an all-powerful entity named Q took an interest in Captain Picard and the crew of the Enterprise. Q conducted a trial for all of humanity, using Captain Picard and his crew as representatives of the entire human race. Throughout the series, Q frequently appeared on the Enterprise, often causing trouble for Captain Picard. One notable instance was in "Q Who" during season 2, when Q hurled the Enterprise into unknown space, leading them to encounter the Borg much earlier than expected. Although Q made appearances in other Star Trek series, his fondness for Captain Picard and the crew of Star Trek: The Next Generation remained constant.
