Jonathan Frakes' Insight on Star Trek: Discovery Critics: "They Disliked TNG As Well"
Frakes offered the cast of Discovery some valuable insight.
Sonequa Martin-Green shared the advice and perspective given by Jonathan Frakes, who starred in Star Trek: The Next Generation, to the cast of Star Trek: Discovery regarding the initial backlash from fans. During its first season, Discovery faced a lot of controversy for straying from established Star Trek canon as a prequel to The Original Series. However, the series started to gain more acceptance with the Mirror Universe arc in season 1 and the introduction of Captain Christopher Pike in season 2, leading to a shift in setting to the 32nd century.
At a panel on Star Trek: The Cruise VII, actors from Star Trek: Discovery including Sonequa Martin-Green, David Ajala, Doug Jones, Anthony Rapp, Mary Chieffo, and Eve Harlow were featured. Martin-Green discussed the initial criticism faced by the show and how Jonathan Frakes reminded her that even The Next Generation faced backlash from fans in the beginning. She shared his comforting words with the audience.
In the beginning, we faced a lot of criticism from people for various reasons. We always acknowledged where they were coming from and respected their opinions. We knew that their criticisms came from a place of love, loyalty, intelligence, and intellect. It was a challenging time for us as we felt the pressure to prove ourselves to both others and to ourselves.
Jonathan Frakes, one of our favorite directors, played a significant role in guiding and supporting us during this period. He welcomed us as representatives of the entire franchise and reassured us that facing criticism was a normal part of the journey. He shared his own experiences, recalling how even "Star Trek: The Next Generation" faced similar challenges in its early seasons. His mentorship and encouragement were invaluable to us, and we are still grateful to him to this day.
Jonathan Frakes directed the ninth episode of season 5 of "Star Trek: Discovery," titled "Lagrange Point." This episode marks the first part of the series finale for "Discovery."
Star Trek Fans Did Hate TNG In The Beginning
Every Star Trek show starts off with haters
Jonathan Frakes Star Trek TNG Will Riker Captain Picard - Every Star Trek show starts off with haters - Star Trek Fans Did Hate TNG In The Beginning
Jonathan Frakes and his co-stars reflect on the initial backlash faced by Star Trek: The Next Generation. Fans of the original series were upset about a new crew taking over the USS Enterprise. The first few seasons were met with criticism, including angry fan letters before the Internet era. However, by the third season, TNG started to gain popularity and is now considered one of the best Star Trek series.
Hating on a new Star Trek show has become a common occurrence among fans. Jonathan Frakes, who returned to Star Trek as a director for Star Trek: Discovery, considers the series his "home." The backlash Discovery received from hardcore Trekkers may have felt familiar to Frakes. This tradition of fans disliking a new Star Trek show has also been seen with Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Star Trek: Voyager, Star Trek: Enterprise, and all the Star Trek shows on Paramount+ that followed Discovery's success.
Star Trek: Discovery season 5 premieres April 4 on Paramount+.
Source: TrekMovie.com
Editor's P/S:
The article provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by "Star Trek: Discovery" during its early seasons. The cast's experience of facing criticism and backlash from fans resonates with the broader phenomenon of initial resistance to new entries in the Star Trek franchise. The words of Jonathan Frakes, a veteran of "Star Trek: The Next Generation," offer comfort and perspective, reminding us that even beloved shows have faced similar hurdles.
The article also highlights the importance of mentorship and support in navigating these challenges. Frakes' guidance and reassurance played a significant role in helping the "Discovery" cast overcome the initial backlash. It serves as a reminder of the power of experienced professionals in fostering the growth and resilience of newcomers in the industry.
