Thrilling New Adventures Await Paul Wesley in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 2

Warning: SPOILERS Ahead for Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 2, Episode 6 - "Lost In Translation." In this episode, Paul Wesley joins the cast as Lieutenant James T. Kirk, marking his third portrayal of different versions of Captain Kirk from alternate universes. However, in this installment, Wesley takes on the iconic role of Kirk, who will eventually be played by William Shatner.

During the events of Strange New Worlds season 2, episode 6, Kirk has his first encounter with Ensign Nyota Uhura (Celia Rose Gooding). Together, they work to unravel the mystery behind a nebula that is causing Uhura to experience terrifying hallucinations. By the end of the episode, Kirk and Uhura not only form a bond that will carry into Star Trek: The Original Series, but Kirk also crosses paths with his future best friend, Lt. Spock (Ethan Peck).

Screen Rant had the pleasure of speaking with Paul Wesley regarding his portrayal of three different versions of the character Kirk. The discussion revolved around topics such as character development, the importance of maintaining Star Trek canon with characters like Uhura and Spock, and the possibility of Wesley starring in a future Star Trek reboot alongside Ethan Peck as Spock. It is worth noting that this interview took place before the SAG-AFTRA strike, and the show under discussion wouldn't have been possible without the contributions of writers and actors from both WGA and SAG-AFTRA.

Paul Wesley on Creating Iconic Star Trek Canon with Kirk, Uhura & Spock

Screen Rant: You've played three Kirks now in Strange New Worlds. Which one's your favorite? Because they're all a little different, and you very subtly made them different.

Paul Wesley explained that he deliberately portrayed Kirk differently in different episodes. In the season 1 finale, "A Quality of Mercy," he played Kirk as serious and with higher stakes, similar to William Shatner's portrayal in "Balance of Terror." In episode 3 of season 2, he wanted Kirk to be a charming hero with a boyish and nerdy quality, representing a young kid exploring a new world. Episode 6 of season 2 introduced Prime Timeline Kirk, where Wesley maintained the boyish cowboy characterization but added curiosity, adventure, and selflessness, particularly in his interactions with Uhura.

Working alongside Celia in her role as Uhura, you were instrumental in establishing the solid foundation of their 30-year friendship. Your work was truly exceptional. Can you share some insights on collaborating with Celia and creating all of those essential aspects of the character's backstory? Paul Wesley: Celia is an incredible actor, with a captivating presence that stems from her extensive experience in stage acting. Even though she is new to television, she effortlessly carries herself like a seasoned professional who has been in the industry for two decades. Her wealth of stage experience is evident. What I find most compelling about their relationship is that it begins on a rather rocky note - their first encounter is at a bar where she misinterprets his intentions and ends up punching him in the face, a truly inauspicious start. However, as the episode progresses, their dynamic evolves into something remarkably intriguing, marked by trust and genuine friendship.

The relationship between Kirk and Uhura in Star Trek and The Original Series is undeniably significant and iconic. I appreciate the show's ability to create captivating story arcs, particularly with regards to Kirk's character development. My goal is to gradually build up the Kirk that we are familiar with, incorporating unexpected elements into his backstory, which allows for surprises in each episode and a gradual transformation into the character we know. The strong foundation laid in their story makes it clear why Uhura remains loyal to Kirk in the future. The episode concludes on a powerful note, with Kirk and Spock finally meeting and engaging in their first conversation.

Paul Wesley: Isn't that awesome?

Paul Wesley responded to a question about what the three of them were talking about before the scene ended. He mentioned his fondness for Ethan and his knack for telling humorous jokes that resemble Spock's style. Their relationship is similar to that of Spock and Kirk, with Ethan always surprising and making Paul laugh. Paul speculated that Ethan was probably cracking one of his trademark jokes at that moment. They were likely attempting to make each other laugh before the camera pulled back and the music started playing. Paul jokingly suggested that he may have said something vulgar during that time.

You mentioned saying "hard pass" to a Vampire Diaries reboot, but would you have the same response to a Star Trek reboot featuring you and Ethan?

Paul Wesley: Haha, absolutely not. Count me in without hesitation. Let me know where to sign up, and I'm all for it. Strange New Worlds has been incredibly successful and well-received. It's important to let it continue and reach its full potential. However, who knows what the future holds? Maybe we'll have the opportunity to pursue it later on. But for now, I'm thoroughly enjoying delving into the early days of Kirk and his character development, being a part of the Star Trek canon. Our current situation feels just right.

In episode 6, we get to see Jim and Sam Kirk together for the first time. Not played by William Shatner.

Paul Wesley: Exactly.

Who is the superior older brother, Sam or Damon?

Paul Wesley: Without a doubt, it's Sam. He doesn't have any intentions to harm me. Interestingly, my relationship with Sam is quite the opposite of Stefan and Damon's. I embody the rebellious nature of Damon, despite being the younger sibling, and somehow manage to win over the girl. Sam, on the other hand, is the virtuous character who always comes in last, and it frustrates him. I'm grateful for the opportunity to portray a character like Stefan, who is the complete opposite of me, in The Vampire Diaries.

The way they interact is captivating. The playful competition between them, the underlying envy, and his remark, "Well, I'll opt to remain on the flagship. You can return to your diminutive Farragut."

Paul Wesley: He possesses a great sense of humor. Dan Jeannotte is incredibly amusing, and their comical sibling rivalry shines through. However, deep down, they are still devoted brothers who care deeply for each other.

Booze plays a significant role in Star Trek. Have you discussed with Akiva Goldsman and Henry Alonso Myers the possibility of featuring your Brother's Bond bourbon in the Enterprise bar, ensuring its existence in the 23rd century?

Paul Wesley: Just so you know, I actually attempted to do that in my very first episode. In the "Balance of Terror" episode, Pike and Kirk are seen drinking whiskey. I suggested having a bottle of Brother's Bond right there. Unfortunately, I couldn't make it happen. I also suggested having a Brother's Bond bottle in the bar, but it didn't work out because the bar had various unidentified glass bottles with no labels. However, I haven't given up. I have been persistently trying, albeit without success so far, but I am determined to continue my mission.

Absolutely. You've got to make it happen. I mean, The Rock plugs his tequila in everything, so you've gotta get your bourbon in Star Trek.

Paul Wesley: Gotta get it in, yeah.

About Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 2

Explore our collection of interviews from Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 2 here.

Gia Sandhu

Jess Bush

Benji Bakshi

Melissa Navia

Christina Chong

Valerie Weiss

Yetide Badaki

Anson Mount & Rebecca Romijn

Ethan Peck & Paul Wesley

New episodes of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 2 air Thursdays on Paramount+.