The Strange Romance of Lt. Commander Data and the Borg Queen in Star Trek: First Contact

The Unconventional Romance of Lt. Commander Data and the Borg Queen

The co-writer of Star Trek: First Contact, Brannon Braga, acknowledged that the romance between Lt. Commander Data (Brent Spiner) and the Borg Queen (Alice Krige) was indeed weird. Data, an android, had always aspired to be more human, seeking emotional connections and even attempting romance with human crew mates. However, his relationship with the Borg Queen was unlike anything he had experienced before. In the Star Trek oral history, Braga explains that the introduction of the Borg Queen led to the realization that Data being seduced in some way by her would be a fascinating and provocative storyline. This unconventional romance is described as a sick and perverted romance, filled with temptation, seduction, and Borg perversity. Data's emotional journey, although taking a few steps backward in the TNG films, did present him with the chance to experience physical touch on human skin, a unique and significant development for the character.

Star Trek TNG In Theory Data

Despite Data's fascination and temptation, it was clear that he would never betray Captain Jean-Luc Picard and the Enterprise crew. However, the allure of what the Borg Queen offered him was undeniable. Braga's insight into Data's unconventional romance with the Borg Queen sheds light on the complex and thought-provoking nature of their relationship, making it a standout and compelling aspect of Star Trek: First Contact.

Star Trek TNG In Theory Data kiss

Data's Missed Opportunities for a Real Romance in Star Trek: The Next Generation

While Star Trek: The Next Generation provided Lt. Commander Data with a couple of opportunities for romance, the show never fully explored what a genuine relationship for Data would entail. In the episode 'In Theory' from TNG season 4, Data's attempt at dating is portrayed in a manner that doesn't align with his character. The potential for a charming love story is overshadowed by comedic elements, and the connection between Data and Lt. Jenna D'Sora lacks depth and authenticity. Similarly, Data's other two romances in TNG, with Tasha Yar and an inhabitant of Tau Cygni V, also fall short of depicting a genuine emotional connection for Data.

Star Trek TNG Naked Now Data Tasha Yar

The brief encounter with Tasha Yar in TNG season 1 is mostly played for awkward laughs, and the true depth of their connection only becomes apparent after Yar's death. In 'The Ensigns of Command' from TNG season 3, Data's inability to feel anything despite the interest shown by an inhabitant of Tau Cygni V contradicts his established friendships and connections with the Enterprise crew. The lack of exploration of a genuine Data romance is highlighted as a missed opportunity, especially when compared to the multiple love interests of the other main characters in TNG. The absence of a real romance for Data in Star Trek: The Next Generation adds further significance to his unconventional romance in Star Trek: First Contact, making it a poignant and thought-provoking aspect of his character development.

Star Trek TNG Measure of a Man Data Tasha Yar

Conclusion

The unconventional romance between Lt. Commander Data and the Borg Queen in Star Trek: First Contact stands out as one of the most thought-provoking and significant aspects of Data's character development. While Star Trek: The Next Generation missed the opportunity to explore a genuine romance for Data, his unconventional romance with the Borg Queen represents a complex and compelling exploration of temptation, seduction, and the struggle for emotional connection. It is a testament to the depth and complexity of Data's character, as well as the creative and thought-provoking storytelling in the Star Trek franchise. The portrayal of Data's unconventional romance in Star Trek: First Contact continues to intrigue and captivate audiences, adding a unique and memorable dimension to the Star Trek universe.

Star Trek TNG Ensigns of Command Data