The Special Connection Between Captain Shaw and Geordi La Forge in Star Trek: Picard Season 3

Captain Liam Shaw (Todd Stashwick) wasn't too fond of Admiral Jean-Luc Picard (Patrick Stewart) and Captain William Riker (Jonathan Frakes) in Star Trek: Picard season 3. However, he couldn't contain his excitement when he met Commodore Geordi La Forge (LeVar Burton).

When Admiral Picard receives a distress call from Dr. Beverly Crusher (Gates McFadden), he enlists his former First Officer Riker to help with a rescue mission. In need of a ship, the two decide to take over Riker's old command, the USS Titan-A, much to the irritation of its current Captain, Liam Shaw.

Upon boarding the Titan, Shaw quickly realizes that Picard and Riker are up to something. Shaw shows little respect for the Starfleet legends, appearing impolite and dismissive. As the rescue mission unfolds, the Titan faces a dangerous threat from the Changeling Vadic (Amanda Plummer) and her formidable warship, the Shrike. Shaw's main concern is protecting his crew, leading to growing frustration as the Titan sustains damage. However, everything changes when Liam finally meets Commodore La Forge for the first time.

Why Geordi Was The Only Star Trek: TNG Crew Member Captain Shaw Was Nice To

Liam's introduction to Geordi is vastly different from his prickly first meeting with Picard and Riker.

Star Trek Picard Season 3 Liam Shaw Geordi Picard Seven - Liam's introduction to Geordi is vastly different from his prickly first meeting with Picard and Riker. - Why Geordi Was The Only Star Trek: TNG Crew Member Captain Shaw Was Nice To

When Commodore Geordi La Forge arrives on the Titan, Captain Shaw is visibly excited and shows him great respect. Shaw, who considers himself a skilled engineer, admires Geordi as one of the best engineers in Starfleet. It is worth noting that Geordi's daughter, Sidney La Forge, serves as the helmsman on the Titan under Shaw's command. Shaw values Sidney as a valuable member of his crew, and it is likely that his admiration for Geordi played a role in recruiting her to pilot the Titan.

Shaw started his career as an engineer on the USS Constance before transitioning to the command track. During his time on the Constance, he experienced the intense Battle of Wolf 359.

In Star Trek: Picard season 3, the events validate Captain Shaw's initial caution towards Picard and Riker upon their arrival on his ship. Their presence led to significant damage to the Titan, resulting in the loss of crew members in the confrontation with Vadic. Shaw himself endured injuries, confronted his past trauma with the Borg, and made the ultimate sacrifice to save Picard and his companions. This explains why he was hesitant to have them aboard. Geordi, on the other hand, was not involved in Picard's initial plan and even initially refused to assist his former captain. This action earns La Forge commendation from Shaw for calling out Picard's reckless behavior.

Shaw Will Come Back If Star Trek: Picard’s Legacy Spinoff Happens

Liam Shaw is only "Spock dead," after all, not dead dead.

Captain Liam Shaw from Star Trek: Picard. - Liam Shaw is only "Spock dead," after all, not dead dead. - Shaw Will Come Back If Star Trek: Picard’s Legacy Spinoff Happens

Even though Liam Shaw died in the second to last episode of Star Trek: Picard season 3, showrunner Terry Matalas and actor Todd Stashwick have both confirmed that he could come back if Star Trek: Legacy is in the cards. Picard season 3 was a huge hit, bringing back the beloved Star Trek: The Next Generation cast and leaving fans eager for a spin-off. While the finale of Picard season 3 set the stage perfectly for a new series, the rumored Star Trek: Legacy is still just a dream for now. Despite this, many of the cast and crew, like Stashwick, are excited about the possibility of returning for more Star Trek adventures.

Shaw has a rich backstory to draw from. Stashwick has referred to his character as "Spock dead," reassuring fans that, just like Leonard Nimoy's Spock in Star Trek: The Search for Spock, plans have always been in place for Shaw to return. Although the exact plan for Shaw's return from the dead remains unknown, the curmudgeonly captain certainly has more stories to tell. With his complicated history with the Borg and the Battle of Wolf 359, as well as his contentious relationship with Seven of Nine (Jeri Ryan), Shaw has a rich backstory to draw from. However Shaw returns to the world of the living, many fans will undoubtedly rejoice to see more of Star Trek: Picard's lovable "dip**** from Chicago."

Star Trek: Picard is available to stream on Paramount+.

Editor's P/S:

This article provides an insightful exploration of Captain Liam Shaw's character in Star Trek: Picard season 3. It highlights his initial skepticism towards Admiral Picard and Captain Riker, contrasting it with his admiration for Commodore Geordi La Forge. The analysis delves into Shaw's background and motivations, shedding light on his reasons for being cautious with Picard and Riker. The article also speculates on the possibility of Shaw's return in a potential Star Trek: Legacy spin-off, given his "Spock dead" status.

Overall, the article offers a well-rounded examination of Captain Shaw's character, providing context and insight into his actions and relationships. It highlights the nuances of his character and explores the potential for his further development in future Star Trek installments.