Exploring the Intricate Past of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds' Neera & Una

Yetide Badaki delivers a standout performance as Neera Ketoul in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 2, episode 2, "Ad Astra Per Aspera." Neera, a civil rights attorney and former friend of Commander Una Chin-Riley (Rebecca Romijn) of the USS Enterprise, reluctantly takes on the role of Number One's legal counsel when she faces a court-martial by Starfleet. Both Neera and Una belong to the Illyrian race, known for their cultural practice of genetic engineering, which is prohibited by the United Federation of Planets. Despite her personal reservations towards Starfleet, the Federation, and Una, Neera defends Number One in court, resulting in a gripping courtroom drama that ranks among the best in Star Trek history.

Screen Rant had the delightful opportunity to interview Yetide Badaki, where she discussed her lifelong admiration for Star Trek, her portrayal of Neera, a lawyer in the series, and delved into the complex history of the characters Neera and Una. Additionally, she hinted at the possibility of her return in a future episode of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.

Yetide Badaki on Playing Neera in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds

Screen Rant: I just want to say before we start, if I ever get into trouble, please, please be my lawyer.

Yetide Badaki: (laughs) You want Neera, not me.

Just say Neera's lines at the trial. We'll be fine. It'll work.

I am really intrigued by your episode, "Ad Astra Per Aspera." There was something truly remarkable that occurred at the end. As the guest star, you received a standing ovation from the entire cast, which is an unprecedented occurrence in the history of Star Trek. I find this truly astonishing.

The applause in the transporter room was a spontaneous reaction from the cast.

Playing Neera and portraying a lawyer in Star Trek has been a dream come true for me. The script beautifully captures an incredible story written by Dana Horgan. The entire cast and crew were so appreciative that after rehearsals, they applauded in the courtroom scene. Being able to be a part of such a renowned space that I have admired for a long time has had a deeply profound impact on me. Star Trek has had its fair share of iconic courtroom dramas, and I am honored to be a part of one of the best.

Yetide Badaki expressed her admiration for courtroom drama episodes in Star Trek and how they contribute to the show's classic nature. She believes that Star Trek has influenced her perspective on life and the importance of self-reflection and collective improvement. In a world filled with dystopian images, she emphasizes the significance of dreaming about a future where humanity not only survives but thrives. However, she acknowledges the need for introspection to ensure that society continues to uphold its ideals. When discussing her role as Neera, Badaki admits that it was challenging to act as if she didn't support Starfleet, considering her personal fandom. Neera's presence in the courtroom was solely due to Una's trial, and the audience initially celebrates her career until her true identity is revealed. This juxtaposition highlights the similarities and differences between Neera and Una, both shaped by their experiences but ultimately choosing divergent paths. Neera's lack of affection for Starfleet stems from the exclusion of certain groups, despite the organization's emphasis on ideals.

And she expresses, "We should thoroughly examine that." When discussing remarkable moments, as an actor, there are certain aspects that carry a strong sense of purpose, and I consider myself extremely fortunate to be a part of them. Playing the role of Neera in this episode, with the captivating concepts that initially drew me to Star Trek, is truly extraordinary.

We were fortunate to have the guidance of Valerie Weiss, our director, who brought a unique perspective to the table with her science background. She made it a priority for Rebecca and me to connect before filming began. We bonded over our shared love for Star Trek, with Rebecca sharing how her mom introduced her to the series and me reminiscing about watching it with my family in Nigeria. These conversations laid the groundwork for a strong collaboration.

Neera's dialogue throughout the entire episode was truly remarkable. Her character was fully developed and brought to life. Did any particular line from Neera stand out as your favorite?

I was particularly drawn to the numerous lines written by Dana Horgan. Even though I was initially a bit intimidated by the sheer amount of dialogue, I found myself falling in love with each and every one of them. The little details, like when she tells Pike, "Congratulations, you've discovered empathy," or when she questions if he ever learned to read the room, added such a clever touch. These moments, especially when shared with Anson Mount's Pike, were truly beautiful. But ultimately, it is a testament to the overall writing that made the entire piece come together so seamlessly. It's difficult to choose just one line because the entire script was crafted so well. As an actor, you can truly appreciate good writing when it effortlessly embeds itself in your memory, and that's exactly what Dana achieved. We all had so much to say, but thanks to the superb writing, it was a pleasure to commit it to memory.

There is a possibility of Neera returning in the future. There are unresolved matters and I can see that you are a dedicated fan of Star Trek. It is widely known that Henry Alonzo Meyers and Akiva Goldsman, among others, are aware of my passion for this universe. I have discussed the topic with them and expressed my desire to return. Neera has the potential to serve as Starfleet's moral compass, which is crucial. That is all I will say on the matter.

About Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 2

Explore more of our exclusive interviews with the cast and crew of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 2 here.

Anson Mount & Rebecca Romijn

Ethan Peck & Paul Wesley

New episodes of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 2 air Thursdays on Paramount+.