Unveiling the Enigmatic Heroine of Star Trek's Lower Decks - Discover the Intriguing Story of Tendi, the Fearless Orion in Starfleet

Summary

Ensign D'Vana Tendi has defied stereotypes as the first Orion Starfleet Officer, proving her competence and changing perceptions of Orions.

Tendi's intellect and positivity have guided her as she and her fellow Lower Deckers navigate peculiar and perilous circumstances.

Tendi's portrayal in Star Trek: Lower Decks has had a noteworthy influence, shedding a fresh perspective on Orions and setting the stage for future diverse representation.

Ensign D'Vana Tendi, portrayed by comedic actress Noël Wells, has become a beloved character in Star Trek: Lower Decks. Serving as a Science Officer aboard the USS Cerritos, Tendi, alongside her fellow Ensigns Brad Boimler, Beckett Mariner, and Sam Rutherford, consistently showcases her intelligence and eager attitude towards learning. Her capabilities have helped her and her Lower Decker companions navigate numerous peculiar and perilous situations. Throughout her time on the Cerritos, Tendi has proven herself to be a capable and optimistic officer, facing challenges with enthusiasm.

However, as an Orion, Tendi occasionally encounters prejudice from her fellow Starfleet Officers. Nonetheless, she remains determined to shatter the stereotypes commonly associated with her species. Tendi represents the first Orion Starfleet Officer within Sta Trek's Prime Timeline, significantly impacting the perception of Orions both in the Star Trek universe and among fans. While currently holding the rank of Ensign in Star Trek: Lower Decks season 3, Tendi appears to be a strong contender for promotion in season 4. Regardless of her rank, she has seamlessly integrated herself into the Star Trek universe, captivating audiences with her captivating journey.

Who Is D’Vana Tendi In Star Trek: Lower Decks?

Before joining Starfleet, Ensign D'Vana Tendi, formerly known as the Mistress of the Winter Constellations, was an Orion pirate from a family deeply involved in the Orion Syndicate. However, upon deciding to attend Starfleet Academy, Tendi aimed to challenge the negative connotations associated with Orions as bloodthirsty pirates and thieves. After completing her studies at the Academy, Tendi was assigned to the USS Cerritos, where she quickly developed friendships with fellow Ensigns Rutherford, Boimler, and Mariner. Initially working in the Medical Division under the guidance of Dr. T'Ana, Tendi's passion for science led her to become a dedicated Science Officer within Starfleet. She truly cherishes her role in Starfleet and eagerly embraces every opportunity to learn and explore.

Noël Wells, an accomplished actress since 2009, has an extensive background in comedy. She starred in the renowned show Saturday Night Live for one season and made appearances in various other comedic productions. Additionally, Wells portrayed Rachel Silva in eight episodes of Aziz Ansari's Masters of None and wrote and directed the 2017 film Mr. Roosevelt, in which she also starred. Wells has contributed her voice to numerous shows such as Gentlemen Lobsters, Wander Over Yonder, and American Dad!. Aside from her role as Tendi on Star Trek: Lower Decks, she is also known for voicing Kelsey Pokoly and various other characters in the Cartoon Network show Craig of the Creek. Wells is also a multi-talented musician and photographer.

How Tendi Changed Orions In Star Trek

D’Vana Tendi has singlehandedly transformed the way Orions are perceived in Star Trek. This is clearly seen in the crossover between Star Trek: Strange New Worlds and Lower Decks, where Tendi briefly appears as her animated character. During the crossover, Ensigns Boimler and Mariner find themselves in the 23rd century aboard Captain Christopher Pike's USS Enterprise. When Pike and his crew encounter an Orion ship, they initially mistake them for pirates or thieves. However, Ensign Boimler points out that in the 24th century, assuming such things about Orions is considered offensive, using Tendi as an example of a different kind of Orion.

Prior to Ensign Tendi, Orions were only portrayed as minor or secondary characters in Star Trek. In the original series, Orion slave women were objectified and little was known about the Orion species as a whole. One of the most notable Orion characters was Osyraa in Star Trek: Discovery's distant future, but she reinforced the pirate stereotype associated with Orions as the leader of the Emerald Chain. With her vibrant personality and enthusiasm in Star Trek: Lower Decks, D'Vana Tendi has made significant strides in challenging the perception of Orions in the Star Trek universe.