Unveiling the Definitive Ranking of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine's Ultimate Supporting Characters

Summary

The supporting characters of Deep Space Nine made a substantial impact on the overall narrative of the show as their decisions influenced the broader storyline and unveiled their concealed true selves.

Characters such as Morn, Ishka, Eddington, and Leeta demonstrated the intricate and multifaceted nature of supporting characters, confronting preconceived notions and altering the course of the show. Every supporting character in Deep Space Nine experienced personal growth or unveiled their authentic selves, surpassing expectations and emphasizing the show's central message that looks can be deceiving.

Throughout its seven seasons, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine featured a diverse range of supporting characters. Many of these characters were visitors to the station, introducing political and personal conflicts that drove DS9's stories forward. Others were permanent residents of Deep Space Nine, remaining stationary much like the station itself. As the Dominion War engulfed the station and the ongoing narrative, additional recurring characters became directly intertwined with the war, capitalizing on Deep Space Nine's proximity to the Bajoran wormhole.

Similar to the main characters of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, the supporting characters formed an interdependent narrative ecosystem that continuously evolved. Unlike other shows where the status quo was restored at the end of each episode, the events of one episode had lasting consequences and could impact the trajectory of future episodes, exerting influence over every character, regardless of their initial prominence. The choices made by supporting characters on DS9 revealed hidden depths, shaped the overarching story, and sometimes altered their own destinies irreversibly.

11 Mark Allen Shepherd as Morn

10 Andrea Martin as Ishka, aka "Moogie"

Morn, the Lurian courier, was a familiar face in Quark's Bar at DS9, occupying the same seat that Norm from Cheers would have appreciated. Known for his outgoing personality and penchant for tall tales, Morn's on-screen presence never showcased his captivating storytelling skills. However, in the sixth season's twelfth episode of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, titled "Who Mourns for Morn," Quark and Morn's ex-wife, Larell, ventured on a thrilling quest to uncover Morn's hidden reserve of a thousand gold-pressed latinum bricks, providing undeniable proof of his eventful and colorful past.

Ishka, affectionately known as "Moogie" by her sons Quark and Rom (Max Grodénchik), was not only a devoted mother but also a trailblazer for Ferengi feminism. She tirelessly advocated for women's rights, including the freedom to wear clothes with pockets for latinum, the ability to express themselves independently, and the opportunity to become entrepreneurs and earn their own profits. Her courageous stance landed her in trouble with the Ferengi Commerce Authority in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine season 3, episode 18 "Family Business". Later on, Ishka's romantic involvement with Grand Nagus Zek (Wallace Shawn) provided her with the political influence needed to ensure that her movement for the liberation of Ferengi women made a lasting impact throughout Ferenginar.

9 Kenneth Marshall as Lt. Commander Michael Eddington

8 Chase Masterson as Leeta

Lieutenant Commander Michael Eddington was appointed as a security officer on DS9 by Starfleet Command due to suspicions of Constable Odo's potential alliance with the Dominion. However, it was soon revealed that Eddington himself posed a greater threat as his loyalty lay with the Maquis resistance rather than Starfleet. Eddington's decision to defect stemmed from his belief that the forceful imposition of Federation ideology was even worse than Borg assimilation. Following Eddington's resignation, Captain Benjamin Sisko relentlessly pursued him in "For the Uniform," an episode that showcases one of Sisko's darkest actions. (DS9 season 4, episode 22 "For the Cause")

Leeta's easy confidence and positive attitude served as a source of inspiration for many, particularly her partner (and later spouse), Rom. Often perceived as unskilled and superficial, Dabo girls like Leeta were commonly typecast as mere decorative objects. However, Leeta found fulfillment in her profession and took immense pride in her contributions to the gaming industry. Through her work, she demonstrated that her job demanded not only physical appearance but also a high level of emotional intelligence and finely honed social skills. Therefore, roles in the service industry, such as her own, deserved equal respect and recognition as any other profession.

7 Mark Alaimo as Gul Dukat

During the Cardassian occupation of Bajor, Gul Dukat served as the prefect of Bajor and oversaw the operations at Terek Nor, also known as DS9. However, Bajor's attainment of independence marked the beginning of Dukat's downfall, as it weakened his standing within the Cardassian military and he could never fully regain his former reputation. In an effort to salvage the respect and glory he believed he deserved, Dukat resorted to any means necessary, including forming alliances with the Dominion and even aligning himself with the pah wraiths as their Emissary. Despite the less than ideal choices he made, Dukat's journey for redemption was undeniably captivating to witness.

6 James Darren as Vic Fontaine

Vic Fontaine, the holographic crooner and manager, brought to life the iconic Vic's Las Vegas Lounge program in later seasons of Deep Space Nine. Transporting DS9's residents to the glamour of a 1962 nightclub, Vic provided a much-needed escape from the relentless Dominion War unfolding outside the holosuite. Despite being a hologram, Vic possessed a profound self-awareness that lent him a sense of authenticity rarely found in artificial beings. This genuineness allowed him to effortlessly assume the role of an impromptu counselor, offering invaluable advice to his guests. Notably, Vic played a pivotal role in helping Nog (Aron Eisenberg) confront and manage his post-traumatic stress disorder in the memorable DS9 season 7, episode 10 "It's Only a Paper Moon".

5 Louise Fletcher as Kai Winn Adami

Kai Winn Adami's role as the leader of the Bajoran religion was intended to represent the will of the Prophets to the people of Bajor. However, instead of fulfilling this duty, she turned it into a political platform to advance her own ambitions. Behind her soft-spoken demeanor lurked a cunning and cruel nature that aligned with her regressive agenda. She prioritized maintaining control over the Bajoran people, even at the expense of their well-being, rather than allowing Federation science or philosophy to challenge her authority. Kai Winn's unwavering conviction placed her in direct opposition to the Federation as a whole, and specifically to Captain Sisko, who served as the Emissary.

4 Max Grodénchik as Rom

Rom, a Ferengi lacking "the lobes for business," underestimated his natural talent for repairing things at his brother's bar. Instead, he allowed Quark to diminish his abilities, exploiting him as an employee. However, in DS9 season 4, episode 16 "Bar Association," Rom established the Guild of Restaurant and Casino Employees. Leading a strike provided Rom with the confidence to leave his job and become an engineer in the esteemed Bajoran militia, where his skills were truly appreciated. By liberating himself from both Quark's exploitation and the Ferengi culture's misconceptions about his worth, Rom learned to sincerely value himself.

3 J.G. Hertzler as General Martok

Born into a humble House in the Ketha lowlands, General Martok rose from a mere soldier to become a respected House leader and esteemed general, thanks to his unwavering spirit and strategic brilliance. Unlike others, Martok mentored Lieutenant Commander Worf (Michael Dorn) with firsthand experiences of the reality of Klingon culture, rather than relying on secondhand knowledge. Recognizing his abilities, Martok extended an invitation to Worf to join House Martok. However, his reputation was blemished by a Changeling imposter. Nonetheless, with Worf's assistance, Martok proved himself to be a true embodiment of Klingon honor, deserving of the Martok name. His relentless determination and self-made honor ultimately led him to become an esteemed Chancellor, highly regarded among both the elite and the commoners.

2 Andrew Robinson as Elim Garak

Given the chance, Elim Garak would often lead his frequent companion Dr. Julian Bashir (played by Alexander Siddig) to believe that he had a simple profession as a tailor, conveniently ignoring his past as a former operative of the Obsidian Order who now lived in exile. He certainly never revealed that he had played a crucial role as a spy, utilizing the information he gathered during his clothing fittings to assist Captain Benjamin Sisko in turning the tides of the entire Dominion War. Garak possessed a remarkable talent for appearing harmless or displaying ruthless determination, depending on what the situation demanded. It is worth mentioning that while some of his tales might have been lies, they all contained an element of truth...especially the lies.

1 Aron Eisenberg as Nog

Nog's determination and powerful character development established him as the finest supporting character on DS9. Initially, he served as a friend and foil for Jake Sisko, portraying a mischievous Ferengi youth driven by his desire for profit and romantic conquests. However, Nog ventured onto an unconventional path, enrolling in Starfleet Academy to avoid becoming like his father, Rom. This risky decision ultimately rewarded him with more than just financial gain – it earned him respect and the esteemed position of being the first Ferengi in Starfleet. In the gripping DS9 episode "The Battle of AR-558" in season 7, Nog's encounter with the Jem'Hadar resulted in the loss of his leg and the onset of PTSD, which was portrayed with profound depth and sensitivity.

While Nog experienced significant transformation, it is crucial to recognize that nearly every supporting character in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine underwent their own evolution or showcased their inner nature through the intriguing twists of their stories. These characters routinely defied expectations, thereby emphasizing one of the core themes of the series – nothing is ever truly as it initially seems.