Star Trek: Lower Decks & Strange New Worlds Epic Crossover Teased by Frakes

Star Trek icon Jonathan Frakes, renowned for his role as First Officer William Riker in The Next Generation, is set to direct a highly-anticipated crossover episode between the franchise's animated series Lower Decks and its current flagship show Strange New Worlds. Frakes has expressed his excitement for the upcoming event, hinting that this episode will be one to remember for Star Trek enthusiasts worldwide.

The Lower Decks crossover will showcase The Boys actor Jack Quaid as his animated character ensign Brad Boimler and Tawny Newsome, from Space Force, as ensign Beckett Mariner, as they make their live-action debut. This will give them the chance to interact with fan-favorite characters from Strange New Worlds, such as Spock (Ethan Peck), Una Chin-Riley/Number One (Rebecca Romijn), and Captain Pike (Anson Mount). Although crossovers have been a regular occurrence throughout the Star Trek franchise, this one is unique. The two shows have distinct styles, making it interesting to see how they will merge. Frakes has promised that this crossover will be filled with humor, making it a must-watch for fans.

Frakes recently made an appearance on the TrekMovie podcast All Access Star Trek to discuss the exciting crossover event. According to him, Mariner and Boimler will find themselves in the company of Anson Pike, Number One, and Spock from Strange New Worlds, after crossing over from their animated world. This event is sure to leave fans breathless, as Frakes describes it as a flat-out comic episode. It's a fish out of water scenario that promises to be fabulous. This crossover differs from others like Ahsoka, as the cartoons and their actors remain connected in this case.

"Quaid and Tawny truly embody their characters," expressed Frakes. "The depth of their interrelations in three dimensions is absurdly entertaining. Boimler's admiration for Spock and fear of Number One provides plenty of comedic material. Mariner, as always, saves the day with her wit and charm. The episode is a hilarious masterpiece, and I can't wait for viewers to experience it." With so many inconsistencies throughout various Star Trek shows, it is reassuring to have such a consistent and satisfying dynamic between Mariner and Boimler in Lower Decks.

Lower Decks and Strange New Worlds offer vastly different tones, with Lower Decks leaning heavily into its comedic premise and Strange New Worlds garnering praise for its more serious tone and faithful portrayal of the original USS Enterprise crew. However, Lower Decks manages to balance its raunchy humor with moments of sincerity, making it a standout addition to the Star Trek universe.

Of course, as expected, Boimler will undoubtedly geek out over Spock, and Mariner will get things done in her usual efficient manner. But beyond these predictable interactions, viewers can anticipate some truly unexpected moments that will make for a truly unforgettable experience. And Spock's reaction to this dynamic duo? It's sure to be a surprise that's worth the wait.

Be sure to mark your calendars for the highly anticipated Star Trek crossover episode, which will premiere as part of Strange New Worlds season 2 on Paramount Plus on June 15th, 2023.