Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 2 cinematographer Benji Bakshi recently disclosed the origins of the covert finger and eye gesture between characters Dr. Joseph M'Benga (Babs Olusanmokun) and Lieutenant La'an Noonien-Singh (Christina Chong). This unique gesture, in which they discreetly rub their index finger under their right eyes, serves as a secret form of communication. In an exclusive interview with Screen Rant, Bakshi sheds light on the individuals responsible for creating this intriguing gesture.
What Strange New Worlds Secret Finger Teardrop Gesture Could Mean
Actors Babs Olusanmokun and Christina Chong have an exclusive and intriguing secret gesture of their own creation. Its meaning remains known only to them, showcasing their remarkable bond and enhancing their performance in the show. Don't hesitate to inquire about it!
Twitter user Kristian Guntzelman, @kristiandg, points out that the teardrop wiping gesture between La'an and Dr. M'Benga was first observed in the series premiere of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. In that episode, Captain Pike brought La'an and Lt. Spock (played by Ethan Peck) to Sickbay, where Dr. M'Benga already knew Lt. Noonien-Singh. The two exchanged a finger greeting, which Captain Pike seemingly overlooked. Since then, Dr. M'Benga has used the same gesture to greet La'an on multiple occasions. It was first seen in the season 2 premiere, titled "The Broken Circle," when they met on Cajitar IV. The gesture was also repeated in episode 4 of season 2, titled "Among the Lotus Eaters."
Babs Olusanmokun and Christina Chong's development of this visual shorthand for their characters demonstrates the meticulous consideration they put into their roles. While the meaning behind the gesture remains a mystery to the cast and crew of Strange New Worlds, there are hints that season 2 may provide more insight. The show has established that both La'an and Dr. M'Benga are veterans of Star Trek: Discovery's Klingon War and carry the scars of that devastating conflict, suggesting that this gesture may originate from their experiences during the war. The significance of Dr. M'Benga and La'an's teardrop wiping gesture is undeniably important, and its true meaning is expected to illuminate their past and relationship in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. Tune in to stream the second season of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds on Paramount+ every Thursday.
