Exclusive: Rebecca Romijn Reveals the Secrets Behind 'Strange New Worlds: Star Trek's Highly Anticipated Series'

Summary

Rebecca Romijn's portrayal of Number One in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds adds depth and a compelling backstory to the character, connecting her to Star Trek lore.

Number One's Starfleet record is exemplary, despite her initial deception on her application. As one of the most experienced officers on the USS Enterprise, Romijn's Una Chin-Riley portrays her character as competent, likable, and dedicated to her role as First Officer, establishing her as one of the finest first officers in Star Trek.

Originally portrayed by Majel Barrett, the iconic Star Trek actress, the character known as Number One has now been taken up by Rebecca Romijn in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. Professionally known as Number One, Una Chin-Riley serves as the first officer on the USS Enterprise under the command of Captain Christopher Pike, played by Anson Mount. Number One was first introduced in the unaired pilot of Star Trek called "The Cage," which only became available to the public in 1986. However, excerpts from "The Cage" were included in the TOS two-part episode, "The Menagerie."

Rebecca Romijn first started playing the role of Number One in season 2 of Star Trek: Discovery, joining Anson Mount's Captain Pike and Ethan Peck's Spock. In the original series, Number One was portrayed as a mysterious character with no known background. However, Strange New Worlds has given Una a captivating backstory that aligns with the existing Star Trek lore. Una belongs to the Illyrian species, which means she has been genetically enhanced with incredible strength and immunity to diseases. As genetic engineering is prohibited in the Federation, Una had to falsify her Starfleet application.

Rebecca Romijn's Number One In Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Explained

Number One, despite initially deceiving Starfleet Academy, boasts an outstanding record within the organization. She shares a close friendship with Una and Captain Pike, and is among the few individuals privy to his tragic future. Number One has been honored with numerous medals and accolades from Starfleet, exemplifying her extensive experience as one of the Enterprise's most seasoned officers. While she faced a court-martial for her dishonesty during her Starfleet application, she ultimately prevailed in her trial and was reinstated to her position. In the episode "Those Old Scientists," it is revealed that Number One is featured on future Starfleet recruitment posters with the phrase "Ad Astra per Aspera."

Rebecca Romijn, an actress and former model, gained recognition for her portrayal of the shapeshifting mutant Mystique in the X-Men film series, including X-Men, X2: X-Men United, and X-Men: The Last Stand. She also had notable roles as Laurie/Lily in the 2002 movie Femme Fatale and as Joan in The Punisher in 2004. Romijn has appeared in various other movies and television shows, notably enjoying an extended stint on Ugly Betty and starring as Eve Baird on TNT's The Librarians. In 2007, she wed Jerry O'Connell, who lends his voice to the character of Commander Jack Ransom in Star Trek: Lower Decks. Additionally, Romijn has provided the voice for Lois Lane in several DC Universe animated movies, alongside O'Connell's portrayal of Superman.

How Rebecca Romijn Changed Number One From Star Trek: TOS For The Better

Similar to Jeffrey Hunter's portrayal of Captain Pike, Number One received limited screen time in Star Trek: The Original Series, leaving the character relatively undefined. In contrast to Majel Barrett's rendition, the unnamed Number One never reappeared in subsequent episodes following "The Cage" and "The Menagerie." However, Strange New Worlds has delved into the character's background, crafting a more captivating and multidimensional persona. Despite the untapped potential of Barrett's Number One, it remained unrealized after the abandonment of the pilot.

Rebecca Romijn's Una Chin-Riley, on the other hand, has emerged as a capable and amiable character who has rightfully earned her position as First Officer on the Enterprise. When Pike is occupied elsewhere, she adeptly assumes command of the ship and remains composed during times of crisis. Una takes her role as First Officer seriously, which contributes to her harmonious relationship with Security Chief La'an Noonien-Singh (portrayed by Christina Chong). Their bond humanizes Una and enhances her character. Thanks to Star Trek: Strange New Worlds and Rebecca Romijn's portrayal, Number One has undergone a remarkable transformation and swiftly become one of Star Trek's most formidable first officers.

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 2 streams Thursdays on Paramount+.