Unexpectedly Sizzling: Jonathan Frakes Spills Secrets of Iconic 'Hot Spock' Line in Strange New Worlds Crossover

Warning: This Article Contains SPOILERS for Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 2, Episode 7 - "Those Old Scientists"

Summary

Actress Tawny Newsome improvised Ensign Mariner's remark about young Spock's allure, injecting a humorous element into the crossover episode. Director Jonathan Frakes commended Newsome's improvisational skills and acknowledged its contagious impact on the cast of "Strange New Worlds."

Ensign Mariner pays tribute to Jadzia Dax's earlier remark in "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine" by commenting on Spock's appeal, which has always captivated numerous Trek fans. In a memorable moment from the Star Trek: Strange New Worlds crossover, Ensign Beckett Mariner amusingly expresses her surprise at Lt. Spock's (Ethan Peck) attractiveness, a line that was ad-libbed by actress Tawny Newsome. In this crossover with Star Trek: Lower Decks, Mariner and Ensign Brad Boimler (Jack Quaid) unintentionally journey back in time to Captain Christopher Pike's (Anson Mount) USS Enterprise. As they enthusiastically revel in the presence of Starfleet legends, Mariner confides in Boimler, "I want to maintain professionalism here, but I was genuinely taken aback by how attractive young Spock turned out to be. I mean, seriously? The physique, the face, those ears — incredible!"

Director Jonathan Frakes, in an interview with Variety, shared that Tawny Newsome improvised Mariner's dialogue, resulting in one of the funniest moments of the episode. Frakes also mentioned that this improvised moment had a contagious effect on the cast of "Strange New Worlds." He expressed his excitement and hope that this experience would lead to a change in perception.

Jadzia Dax Also Commented About Hot Spock On Star Trek: Deep Space Nine

In the Star Trek: Deep Space Nine's fifth season episode titled "Trials and Tribble-ations," Captain Benjamin Sisko, portrayed by Avery Brooks, and his crew find themselves transported over a century into the past and secretly board the USS Enterprise commanded by Captain James T. Kirk, played by William Shatner. During their undercover mission, Trill Science Officer Jadzia Dax, portrayed by Terry Farrell, catches a glimpse of Captain Kirk and his First Officer, Spock, portrayed by Leonard Nimoy, walking down the corridor. She admiringly comments about Spock's personal appearance, describing him as exceptionally handsome and emphasizing his eyes. Captain Sisko assumes Dax is referring to Kirk, as he was known for his popularity with women. However, Jadzia clarifies that she was actually referring to Spock. This brief conversation highlights the fact that among many fans of the original series, Leonard Nimoy's portrayal of Spock gained even greater popularity than Captain Kirk.

Ensigns Mariner and Boimler enthusiastically follow in Jadzia's footsteps and are even more excited than she was to visit the time of their beloved heroes in the crossover event of Strange New Worlds. Tawny Newsome, a devoted fan of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, may have paid tribute to Jadzia's famous remark in "Trials and Tribble-ations" with her mention of "hot Spock." Mariner's improvisation on Star Trek: Strange New Worlds only confirms what dedicated Trek fans have always known: Spock has always been an appealing character. Experience the second season of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds streaming on Paramount+ every Thursday.

Source: Variety