The Voyager Cheerleader: How One Actor Became the Spirit of Star Trek: Voyager

The Role of the Voyager Cheerleader

Star Trek: Voyager actor Garrett Wang took on the unusual role of 'Voyager cheerleader', a position that was not officially required but had a significant impact on the dynamics of the show's background actors.

Garrett Wang as Harry Kim and Robert Duncan McNeill as Tom Paris look at something offscreen as they sit with Sandrine and Ricky in the Chez Sandrines holodeck program on Star Trek: Voyager.

In a discussion on The Delta Flyers, Wang revealed that there were times when the cast had a lot of extra background actors, and he took it upon himself to guide them in order to ensure the scene's engagement. Wang's initiative was not part of his official duties, but he felt that as a principal actor, it was appropriate to ensure that everyone around him was engaged in the scene.

Tuvok and the Maquis crew in the Star Trek: Voyager episode "Learning Curve"

His efforts were acknowledged by his co-stars, with Robert Duncan McNeill recognizing the importance of maintaining the engagement of background actors. Terry Farrell also commended Wang's role, likening it to 'team spirit'. This unofficial role of the 'Voyager cheerleader' highlights the unique dynamics of the Voyager set and the collaborative spirit among the cast and crew.

Harry Kim is served by Quark aboard DS9

Voyager's Consistency and Background Dynamics

The background dynamics of Star Trek: Voyager differed significantly from those of its predecessor, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Voyager's consistent use of the same recurring background actors created a sense of continuity and familiarity within the show's interior scenes.

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The smaller number of background actors on Voyager allowed Wang to have a more direct impact on their performances compared to the larger ensemble on Deep Space Nine. The familiarity of the recurring actors and the show's consistent tone provided Wang with a better understanding of how to support the background crew and contribute to the show's overall performance.

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The unique challenges faced by background actors on Voyager and the distinct storytelling styles of the two Star Trek shows contributed to the need for Wang's unofficial role as the 'Voyager cheerleader'. His understanding of the show's dynamics and the collaborative spirit within the cast made his contribution invaluable to the overall success of Star Trek: Voyager.

The Impact of Voyager's Storytelling Style

The difference in storytelling style between Star Trek: Voyager and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine required different approaches to engaging and directing background actors. Voyager's consistent tone and storytelling approach allowed for a more focused and familiar environment for its background crew.

Garrett Wang's role as the 'Voyager cheerleader' was a reflection of the show's collaborative and supportive atmosphere, where the cast and crew worked together to create a cohesive and engaging performance. His unofficial position exemplifies the unique dynamics and spirit of the Voyager set, contributing to the show's enduring success and impact on the Star Trek franchise.

As Star Trek: Voyager continues to be celebrated by fans and new audiences, Wang's role as the 'Voyager cheerleader' serves as a testament to the collaborative and supportive environment that defined the show's behind-the-scenes dynamics, making it a cherished part of the Star Trek legacy.