The Untold Story of Geordi La Forge: From Original Alien Plan to Starfleet Commodore

The Original Alien Plan for Geordi La Forge

Lt. Commander Geordi La Forge (LeVar Burton) almost had a very different backstory on Star Trek: The Next Generation. Despite being one of the most famous actors at the beginning of TNG's run, LeVar Burton's character Geordi didn't always have much to do during TNG season 1. Geordi's ultimate role on the USS Enterprise-D was unclear until he took over the role of Chief Engineer in TNG season 2. Still, not much about Geordi's life before the Enterprise was ever revealed during TNG, and that might be because the writers abandoned the original idea for his character.

Star Trek TNG Geordi La Forge

Although Geordi grew and developed as a character as Star Trek: The Next Generation progressed, he never got as much of his backstory filled in as many of the other characters. None of Geordi's family members were introduced until TNG season 7, episode 3, 'Interface,' in which his mother was killed on a mission. Outside of his friendship with the android Lt. Commander Data (Brent Spiner), his obvious engineering talent, and his bad luck with romance, Geordi was one of the least-developed TNG characters.

Star Trek Picard Surrender Data Geordi La Forge

In the Star Trek oral history, The Fifty-Year Mission: The Next 25 Years by Mark A. Altman and Edward Gross, TNG executive producer Jeri Taylor spoke about the original plan for the character of Geordi La Forge. She revealed that they wanted to make Geordi an alien and provide a detailed backstory that involved his mother and an alien connection. This revelation sheds light on the unexplored depths of Geordi's character and the potential for a more elaborate development.

Star Trek Picard Commodore Geordi La Forge Captain Enterprise D

Geordi La Forge's Evolution and Underdeveloped Character

Throughout his journey in Star Trek: The Next Generation, Geordi La Forge remained one of the most underdeveloped main characters. While other characters had their backstories and family connections explored, Geordi's past and personal life remained shrouded in mystery for much of the series. It wasn't until TNG season 7, episode 3, 'Interface,' that Geordi's family members were introduced, adding a layer of complexity to his character.

The revelation from TNG executive producer Jeri Taylor about the original plan for Geordi's character highlights the missed opportunities to elaborate on his backstory and heritage. The idea of making Geordi an alien and exploring his alien lineage would have provided a unique perspective on his identity and experiences, potentially enriching his character arc throughout the series.

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Despite the lack of detailed backstory, Geordi's character continued to grow and develop, showcasing his engineering talent, friendship with Lt. Commander Data, and his role as Chief Engineer on the USS Enterprise-D. However, the absence of a comprehensive backstory left fans craving more insight into Geordi's life beyond the starship.

Sidney La Forge in Star Trek: Picard season 3.

Geordi La Forge in Star Trek: Picard and Beyond

The legacy of Geordi La Forge extended into Star Trek: Picard, where his character resurfaced as a Starfleet Commodore with a new role and family. In Picard season 3, Geordi is depicted as a devoted father to his two daughters, Sidney and Alandra, while serving as the Head Curator at the Starfleet Museum on Athan Prime. This new phase of Geordi's life reveals his transition from the adventurous life on the USS Enterprise-D to a more stable and family-oriented existence.

The introduction of Geordi's daughters, Sidney and Alandra, adds a deeper dimension to his character, showcasing his commitment to fatherhood and his protective instincts. Geordi's reluctance to involve himself in risky missions reflects his desire to safeguard his daughters and prioritize their well-being, a testament to his growth as a character and a parent.

Additionally, Picard season 3 unveils Geordi's dedication to rebuilding the USS Enterprise-D and his continued friendship with Lt. Commander Data, emphasizing his enduring connection to his past and his contributions to Starfleet's history. While his wife remains undisclosed, Geordi's role as a father, engineer, and friend highlights the multifaceted nature of his character, leaving room for further exploration in future Star Trek projects.