Jonathan Frakes Reveals Hilarious Secret Behind Picard's Iconic Star Trek: First Contact Line

Summary

Patrick Stewart reveals that Jonathan Frakes loved to mock Captain Picard's famous line "The line must be drawn here!" from Star Trek: First Contact.

Picard's famous line from Star Trek became a popular cultural phenomenon, frequently referenced and parodied, showcasing Jonathan's understanding of its significant impact. This line was even parodied in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, further highlighting its enduring influence within the Star Trek universe.

Patrick Stewart revealed in his autobiography, "Making It So: A Memoir," that during the filming of Star Trek: First Contact, director Jonathan Frakes found great amusement in mocking Captain Jean-Luc Picard's famous line. This particular film was the most popular and successful installment in the Star Trek: The Next Generation franchise, and its impact played a significant role in the storyline of Star Trek: Picard season 3. The plot revolved around the reunion of the entire TNG crew to confront the Borg Queen once again, with the core of the movie centering on Jean-Luc's relationship with Lily Sloane, a woman from the 21st century. Trapped onboard the USS Enterprise-E, Lily becomes entangled in Captain Picard's quest for revenge against the Borg. Within the pivotal scene, when Lily compares Picard to Captain Ahab and his search for the white whale, Stewart recalls passionately delivering the iconic line, "The line must be drawn here!" Frakes, it seems, greatly enjoyed imitating this moment.

This scene depicts Jean-Luc in his most vulnerable state, where his anger and frustration erupt into a terrifying rage. In the grip of these intense emotions and influenced by Alfre's fervor, I angrily exclaimed, "The line must be drawn here!" with venomous force, saying, "The line must be drawn h'yah!"

Following the filming of this scene, we all felt satisfied with the outcome. However, Jonathan immediately recognized that my distinct pronunciation had the potential to gain attention. He began imitating my voice, saying "The line must be drawn h'yah!" in various situations. As expected, it quickly became a popular cultural phenomenon, frequently quoted and parodied. I am delighted by its success.

Picard's Most Famous First Contact Line Was Parodied In Star Trek: Deep Space Nine

Patrick Stewart was correct that Captain Picard's most famous line was frequently quoted and even parodied in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. In the episode titled "The Dogs of War," Quark, played by Armin Shimerman, believed he would become the next Grand Nagus of the Ferengi Alliance. Quark confidently proclaimed to his brother Rom, portrayed by Max Grodénchik, that he would restore Ferengi greatness, stating, "The line has to be drawn here! This far, no further!" This statement was a nearly identical replica of Picard's iconic dialogue from Star Trek: First Contact.

Furthermore, in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine season 5, episode 25, called "In The Cards," another reference was made to Captain Picard's dialogue from Star Trek: First Contact. Jake Sisko, played by Cirroc Lofton, attempted to explain the economic system of the United Federation of Planets to Nog, portrayed by Aron Eisenberg. Jake paraphrased Picard's words by saying that instead of pursuing wealth, "We work to better ourselves and the rest of humanity." When Nog asked for further clarification, Jake amusingly struggled to explain the Federation's no-money philosophy. It comes as no surprise that Lily Sloane in Star Trek: First Contact also couldn't comprehend the idea of Captain Picard not receiving a salary.

Source: "Making It So: A Memoir" by Patrick Stewart