Star Trek's Orions Get an Exciting Makeover in the Epic Strange New Worlds Crossover!

Summary

In Star Trek, the portrayal of the Orions has evolved over time. Originally depicted as smugglers and slaves, recent Paramount+ shows such as Lower Decks and Strange New Worlds have taken a different approach, shedding light on their culture and offering a more varied and positive representation.

For instance, in Lower Decks, the character Ensign D'Vana Tendi challenges the preconceived notions of Orions, proving that they are not simply brute pirates. On the other hand, in Strange New Worlds' episode "Those Old Scientists," Captain Pike is compelled to confront his own assumptions about the Orions and work towards a peaceful resolution with them.

The reputation of the Orions in the Star Trek universe has not been the most favorable, but Star Trek: Lower Decks and Star Trek: Strange New Worlds have successfully improved the portrayal of this green alien species. The Orions were initially introduced in the unaired pilot episode of Star Trek: The Original Series, titled "The Cage." During Captain Christopher Pike's visit to Talos IV and his encounter with Vina, the Talosians presented her in the form of various alien women, including an Orion slave girl, in an attempt to appeal to Pike. This portrayal, which was less than flattering, posed several issues, prompting subsequent shows to make efforts to redefine the Orions.

In episode 7 of Strange New Worlds season 2, titled "Those Old Scientists," another intriguing layer was added to the history of the Orions, subsequently altering the perception of them in the 23rd century. Ensigns Brad Boimler and Beckett Mariner accidentally traveled back in time and found themselves aboard Captain Pike's USS Enterprise. Striving to avoid any actions or statements that could potentially change the future, they were successful in one aspect: reshaping Captain Pike's and his crew's views on the Orions.

Orions In Star Trek Explained

Orions have made appearances in various Star Trek shows since their debut in Star Trek: The Original Series. However, the modern Paramount+ shows have made significant efforts to delve into their culture. Initially, the portrayal of Orions was problematic, as they were depicted solely as smugglers, slave traders, and pirates. They were unfairly characterized as animalistic and savage, with the women objectified as objects of seduction and desire. The Orions pretended to maintain neutrality in Federation matters, but it was essentially a cover-up for their dubious activities and to avoid consequences from the Federation.

For a considerable period spanning the 22nd to the 24th centuries, the Orions held sway over a criminal organization known as the Orion Syndicate. Syndicate members occasionally attempted to interfere in Federation affairs, such as their failed kidnapping of Captain Johnathan Archer and their attack on Captain James T. Kirk's Starship Enterprise, instigating conflict. They even collaborated with the Dominion during the Dominion War. While the Orion Syndicate still exists in the late 24th century, the extent of their influence remains uncertain. In the 32nd century, many Orions became part of a new trading syndicate called the Emerald Chain, led by an Orion named Osyraa.

How Star Trek: Lower Decks Updated Orions

By the late 2300s, piracy was no longer the path chosen by many Orions, with some even opting to join Starfleet. Ensign D'Vana Tendi (Noël Wells), a young Orion officer in the science department of the USS Cerritos in Star Trek: Lower Decks, is a prime example. Tendi challenges the typical assumptions surrounding Orions, as she is kind, endearing, and adheres to regulations. She eagerly embraces every mission, particularly those that involve utilizing her scientific expertise, and she possesses an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Despite her qualities, Tendi occasionally encounters fellow crewmembers who unintentionally fall back on stereotypes associated with Orions, necessitating her gentle reminder that not all Orions are savage pirates.

Through the character of Tendi, Star Trek: Lower Decks effectively reshapes the perception of Orions, showcasing them as a diverse species rather than letting others define them. In the season 3 episode "Hear All, Trust Nothing," Tendi meets another Orion who claims to be the offspring of Orion pirates but ultimately discloses that he was raised by human parents in Ohio. Interestingly, Tendi herself, also known as the "Mistress of the Winter Constellations," has a background as an Orion pirate, with her family being connected to the Orion Syndicate. Both Tendi and the aforementioned Orion characters in Lower Decks defy conventional stereotypes, thereby presenting the Orions as a more multi-dimensional species.

Strange New Worlds Crossover Changes How 23rd Century Sees Orions

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds strives to maintain consistency with the established Star Trek canon, but occasionally employs time travel to address discrepancies and alter the timeline. In the episode "Those Old Scientists," a positive change is made to the past. When Captain Pike's Enterprise encounters an Orion ship, they instinctively adopt a defensive stance, assuming the Orions to be pirates. Ensign Boimler challenges this assumption by revealing that it is considered offensive in the future to stereotype Orions in this way, highlighting that one of his closest friends serves on the USS Cerritos as an Orion crew member.

While Boimler's disclosure goes against the principle of not divulging future information, it has a constructive impact on how Orions are perceived in the 23rd century. Displaying openness and a willingness to listen, Captain Pike engages with the Orions on the approaching ship, who assert their identity as scientists. Initially mistrustful and confused, Pike and the Orions ultimately reach a peaceful resolution. Pike pledges to ensure that their discovery of the time portal on the planet is acknowledged by disseminating this information among the Federation, leveraging his esteemed reputation. By presenting "Those Old Scientists," Star Trek: Strange New Worlds addresses the flawed portrayal of Orions and compels Pike and his crew to confront their preconceived notions.

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 2 streams Thursdays on Paramount+.