Paul Wesley's Experience Playing Multiple Kirks in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds

Paul Wesley, the Saturn Award winner, reflects on the mistakes he learned from while adjusting his portrayal of James T. Kirk in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. He is the first actor since William Shatner to take on the role of Kirk on television. In the two seasons of Strange New Worlds, Wesley depicted three versions of James T. Kirk, beginning with a Captain Kirk from an alternate future in the season 1 finale, "A Quality of Mercy." He then portrayed another alternate reality Captain Kirk in season 2, episode 3, "Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow," before returning as Lieutenant James T. Kirk.

At the 51st Saturn Awards red carpet, Paul Wesley shared his thoughts with TrekMovie before winning the Saturn for Best Guest Star in a Television Series for his portrayal of James T. Kirk in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. Wesley discussed the "mistakes" he made with the initial version of Captain Kirk he portrayed and how he evolved into the character in the second season of Strange New Worlds.

Paul Wesley shared his experience with TrekMovie, explaining that starting with one episode in season 1 and then three in season 2 allowed him to get a feel for the character. He mentioned that it was helpful that the first episode featured a version of Kirk from an alternate reality, giving him a chance to find his footing. Wesley felt that as he got more comfortable, he approached season 2 with a different mindset, learning from his previous experiences. He enjoyed the opportunity to evolve the character of Kirk, showcasing a different side of him as he grows and matures. Wesley expressed gratitude for the chance to gradually develop the character in a unique way, not constrained by the original time period of The Original Series.

Paul Wesley beat Star Trek: Picard season 3's Amanda Plummer for the Best Guest Star in a Television Series Saturn Award.

Paul Wesley's Kirk Returns In Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 3

Kirk has unfinished business on the Starship Enterprise

Paul Wesley as Lt. James T. Kirk - Kirk has unfinished business on the Starship Enterprise - Paul Wesley's Kirk Returns In Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 3

Paul Wesley is set to reprise his role as Lieutenant James T. Kirk in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 3. It is not yet confirmed how many episodes Wesley will be featured in as Kirk, but he is expected to remain a prominent guest star. In this series, Wesley portrays the younger version of the future Captain Kirk, originally played by William Shatner in Star Trek: The Original Series.

In the upcoming season, Kirk's character has a potential romantic storyline with Lt. La'an Noonien-Singh, portrayed by Christina Chong. However, this romance may face complications with the introduction of Kirk's pregnant girlfriend, Carol Marcus.

Lt. Kirk is now the First Officer of the USS Farragut, while also having many friends to visit on the Starship Enterprise. He recently befriended Lt. Spock and Ensign Nyota Uhura, who will be his future crew mates on the Enterprise. Additionally, Kirk's older brother, Lt. Sam Kirk, is also serving on Starfleet's flagship.

Furthermore, Lt. Kirk may have a potential romantic interest in Lt. La'an Noonien-Singh, although this could be complicated by the arrival of his pregnant girlfriend, Carol Marcus. With all these relationships and dynamics in play, there is sure to be plenty of excitement for Lt. James T. Kirk when Paul Wesley returns in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 3.

For those interested in watching the adventures of Lt. Kirk and his crew, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds can be streamed on Paramount+.

Source: TrekMovie.com

Editor's P/S:

Paul Wesley's journey as Captain Kirk in "Star Trek: Strange New Worlds" offers a valuable lesson in the transformative power of experience. Wesley's initial portrayal was marked by "mistakes," yet he embraced these as opportunities for growth. By gradually evolving the character over multiple episodes, Wesley showcased Kirk's dynamic nature, capturing the essence of the iconic Starfleet captain while adding his own unique interpretation.

The article also teases the upcoming season 3, hinting at Kirk's continuing adventures and personal struggles. The potential romantic storyline with La'an Noonien-Singh and the complications posed by Carol Marcus promise to add depth to Kirk's character. Wesley's return as Lieutenant Kirk, alongside his growing relationships with other future Enterprise crew members, sets the stage for an exciting and multifaceted exploration of the beloved character.