The Ultimate Ranking of Star Trek Captains' Epic Endings
Experience the heroic journeys of Star Trek captains as they face their ultimate destinies From Pike to Janeway, witness the unforgettable endings of these iconic characters in the Star Trek universe
The endings of Star Trek's major Captains' stories have always been characterized by dignity and bravery, although the level of happiness varied among them. Wrapping up the stories of the iconic Captains, especially in the Star Trek franchise, has always posed a challenge due to the unpredictable nature of the franchise's popularity. Interestingly, Captain James T. Kirk's last adventure would have ended with the final episode of Star Trek: The Original Series if not for an unexpected revival on the big screen. Captain Jean-Luc Picard, on the other hand, had a remarkable farewell in the series finale of Star Trek: The Next Generation called "All Good Things," which unfortunately was overshadowed by the disappointing final TNG movie, Star Trek: Nemesis. However, Picard was given a pitch-perfect farewell once again in the more recent series Star Trek: Picard. As for Captain Michael Burnham of Star Trek: Discovery, her upcoming exit in the fifth season will be intriguing to compare to those of her predecessors.
10 Captain Christopher Pike's Ending In Star Trek Into Darkness
One of the notable benefits of the 2009 film Star Trek being presented as an alternate timeline rather than a simple reboot was its ability to subtly alter the intricacies of certain characters' lives while still preserving their essential qualities, and at times even enhancing the development of lesser-known characters. Undoubtedly, the most significant character enhancement within the Kelvin timeline was Captain Christopher Pike (Bruce Greenwood), who was reimagined as a wise mentor and paternal figure for the young James Kirk (Chris Pine). Consequently, it was incredibly disheartening when Pike met an untimely demise in the sequel Star Trek Into Darkness, ruthlessly gunned down during an attack led by Khan Noonien-Singh (Benedict Cumberbatch). This unfortunate turn of events left audiences yearning for a more deserving fate for Captain Pike.
9 Captain Jonathan Archer's Ending In Star Trek: Enterprise
Captain Jonathan Archer (Scott Bakula) holds an exceptional place in Earth history within the Star Trek universe. He is renowned for being the first human to lead deep space missions during the nascent years of Starfleet. However, an unfortunate challenge arose in creating a fitting conclusion for Archer's journey due to real-world constraints. Unlike his counterparts, the plan for Archer's story was not meticulously mapped out in advance. Sadly, Star Trek: Enterprise was abruptly cancelled after its fourth season, leaving viewers deprived of witnessing Archer's path to becoming an influential figure as an Admiral in the early days of the Federation.
8 Captain James T. Kirk's Ending In Star Trek Beyond
7 Captain James T. Kirk's Ending In Star Trek Generations
This is another instance where financial considerations have outweighed creative ones. In Star Trek Beyond, the third and final film in the Kelvin timeline franchise, the portrayal of Kirk gave the impression that he was truly starting to fulfill his destiny. Unfortunately, Beyond did not perform well at the box office, leaving the future of the Star Trek films uncertain for almost ten years. The film concludes with Kirk and his crew observing the construction of the USS Enterprise-A, eagerly anticipating new adventures. While this ending is not necessarily terrible, it feels like audiences deserve to see Pine's Kirk embark on at least one more thrilling journey.
In the film Star Trek Generations, William Shatner's last appearance as James Kirk occurs when the time-displaced Kirk teams up with Captain Jean-Luc Picard to thwart Dr. Tolian Soran's evil plan of killing millions of people. Though Kirk successfully foils Soran's scheme, he tragically meets his demise by falling off a precarious bridge. This unassuming ending, originally changed due to negative audience feedback regarding Soran shooting Kirk in the back, may seem understated for such an iconic character as Kirk. Nonetheless, Kirk's serene final moment alongside Picard provides a touch of redemption and beauty to his journey.
6 Captain William T. Riker's Ending In Star Trek: Picard
Most notably recognized as Captain Jean-Luc Picard's loyal Number One on Star Trek: The Next Generation, William Riker (portrayed by Jonathan Frakes) established himself as a renowned Starfleet Captain in his own right. This was further acknowledged in Star Trek: Lower Decks and Star Trek: Picard, where his successful career after departing from the USS Enterprise-E was highlighted. However, Picard encountered Riker during a challenging period in his life, as he was grieving the loss of his son, Thad Riker, along with his wife Deanna Troi (played by Marina Sirtis). This sorrowful circumstance strained their marriage. Yet, when Picard sought Riker's assistance in locating the long-missing Beverly Crusher (played by Gates McFadden), Riker rediscovered his sense of purpose and regained his faith. Consequently, this allowed him to mend his marriage and embark on a new and exciting adventure.
5 Captain Christopher Pike's Ending In Star Trek: The Original Series
Jeffrey Hunter, who portrayed Captain Christopher Pike in Star Trek: The Original Series' initial pilot episode "The Cage," later withdrew from the role when the second pilot was being produced. James T. Kirk, played by William Shatner, then took over as the show's lead. However, in the episode "The Menagerie," it is revealed that Pike suffered severe injuries in an accident, rendering him permanently immobile and barely able to communicate. Spock, defying orders, commandeers the USS Enterprise to transport Pike back to the planet Talos IV, featured in "The Cage." Through cleverly utilizing footage from the unaired pilot, it is explained that the Talosians possess the ability to create an illusory existence for Pike, allowing him to experience happiness and good health for the remainder of his life.
4 Admiral Jean-Luc Picard's Ending In Star Trek: Picard
After receiving a rather inconsistent portrayal of Jean-Luc Picard's later years during the initial two seasons of Star Trek: Picard, the show's third season significantly heightened the personal stakes. Not only did Picard reunite with his old comrades from the USS Enterprise-D, he also discovered an unknown son named Jack Crusher (Ed Speleers), along with the long-absent Dr. Beverly Crusher. Picard's eventual realization that Jack has become the most important person in his life brings forth an unexpectedly tender and heartfelt conclusion for the revered Starfleet hero. Despite initially relishing his well-deserved retirement and newfound family, Picard understands the profound significance of his journey, having saved the Federation from the Borg one final time at the series' end.
3 Captain Spock's Ending In Star Trek II: The Wrath Of Khan
Captain Spock's (Leonard Nimoy) demise in Star Trek II: The Wrath Of Khan stands as one of the most iconic deaths in pop culture. In a desperate attempt to save the ship from certain destruction without warp power, Spock selflessly sacrificed himself to repair the engines just in the nick of time. His final moments with Kirk are undeniably poignant, leaving a lasting emotional impact on the entire franchise. However, Spock's journey didn't end there. In Star Trek III: The Search For Spock, he defied death and was ultimately brought back to life. From that point forward, Spock continued to live for over a century, playing a crucial role as one of the Federation's most significant figures. It wasn't until Star Trek Beyond that it was revealed he had peacefully passed away due to natural causes, leaving an indelible legacy behind.
2 Captain Benjamin Sisko's Ending In Star Trek: Deep Space Nine
Few Star Trek Captains have a conclusion as bad as the one experienced by Star Trek: Deep Space Nine's Captain Benjamin Sisko (Avery Brooks). However, none can rival the epic and almost mythical sendoff that he enjoys. Sisko is widely believed to be an essential spiritual figure in Bajoran culture, renowned as the Emissary of the Prophets. Unfortunately, he had very little time to bask in the Federation's triumph in the Dominion War before he was compelled to sacrifice himself. His sacrifice was made to prevent a deranged Gul Dukat (Marc Alaimo) from unleashing the Pah-wraiths, the malevolent counterparts of the Bajoran Prophets, into the galaxy. Following this momentous event, Sisko transcends to a higher plane of existence alongside the Prophets, leaving his future forever uncertain.
1 Admiral Kathryn Janeway's Ending In Star Trek: Voyager
Admiral Kathryn Janeway, portrayed by Kate Mulgrew, stands out as the top choice on this list. Not only did she receive a remarkable farewell in the conclusion of Star Trek: Voyager, but her character's journey is far from over. By utilizing time travel tactics to overcome the Borg and return to Earth, Janeway earned a promotion to the rank of Admiral and swiftly became an influential figure within Starfleet Command. This is highlighted in Star Trek: Picard and further showcased in Star Trek: Prodigy; wherever the latter series finds its new home, Janeway's captivating adventures will undoubtedly continue. Once again, she exemplifies the very best that the Star Trek universe has to offer.
