Summary
Ensign Uhura's captivating performance steals the spotlight in the musical installment of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, brilliantly highlighting Celia Rose Gooding's remarkable vocal range and infusing the character with an irresistible allure and endearing charisma.
Nyota Uhura's character in Strange New Worlds has been beautifully enhanced, continuing the remarkable legacy of Nichelle Nichols' portrayal while paying homage to it. Throughout her journey on the show, Uhura undergoes a remarkable transformation - evolving from an apprehensive cadet into a crucial member of the Enterprise crew. She perfectly embodies the core values of Starfleet, expertly showcasing her extraordinary linguistic abilities and unwavering empathy.
Ensign Nyota Uhura (Celia Rose Gooding) takes center stage in the musical episode of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, highlighting her significance to the USS Enterprise and the Star Trek universe. "Subspace Rhapsody" showcases various characters, but it is Ensign Uhura who truly captivates the audience. Not only does Celia Rose Gooding possess an incredible voice, but they also infuse Uhura with warmth and charm. In this episode, and many others, Uhura emerges as a hero, saving the day and inspiring those around her.
Nyota Uhura was originally portrayed by the iconic Nichelle Nichols on Star Trek: The Original Series, making history as one of the few Black women in a prominent television role at the time. Nichols served as an inspiration and trailblazer for future generations. Despite being a skilled and talented Starfleet officer, Uhura's role on TOS was often limited to responding to incoming messages. Strange New Worlds and Celia Rose Gooding have beautifully expanded upon the character, adding depth while paying homage to Nichols' original interpretation.
Uhura's Solo Song Perfectly Encapsulates Her Star Trek Story
Uhura shines brightly in the Strange New Worlds musical episode with her rendition of "Keep Us Connected," which beautifully captures her personal journey. The song begins by acknowledging the tragedies she has endured - the loss of her family in a shuttle crash and the passing of her mentor, Lt. Hemmer. Uhura's heartfelt lyrics express the intertwining of love and loss within her life, emphasizing her ability to absorb pain.
Previously, the audience witnessed Uhura grappling with grief and anxiety. However, "Keep Us Connected" showcases her ongoing progression, building upon the emotional growth she experienced in "Lost in Translation." The refrain undergoes a transformation, evolving from questioning her constant solitude to embracing her independence. As the song and the show unfold, Uhura truly comes into her own, conquering moments of uncertainty.
Ultimately, the closing lines of the song encapsulate Uhura's character: "My entire life has been about repairing and safeguarding others. That's my role - to keep us connected." Not only does she excel at fixing and rescuing, but she also possesses the remarkable ability to bring people together and lend an empathetic ear when no one else will.
Ensign Uhura's Journey So Far On Strange New Worlds
Starting as an uncertain Cadet in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, Nyota Uhura's journey has led her to become a pivotal figure on the show and an indispensable member of the Enterprise crew by the end of season 2. After the tragic loss of her parents, Uhura found solace with her grandmother, a former Starfleet member, who inspired her to follow in her footsteps. Despite grappling with her life's purpose, Uhura proved her capabilities from her very first mission, "Children of the Comet," where she played a key role in saving the day.
In the second season of Strange New Worlds, Ensign Uhura officially joined the Enterprise as a communications officer. Her exceptional linguistic skills and empathetic nature have made her a reliable liaison for various alien species on multiple occasions. She embodies the principles of Starfleet, confronting the unknown with curiosity and awe. The musical episode of Strange New Worlds, "Subspace Rhapsody," highlights Uhura's invaluable contributions as she adeptly manages numerous calls and communications for the crew. Uhura's transformation from an unsure Cadet to her current position showcases her remarkable growth and dedication to Starfleet.
How Strange New Worlds Updates & Honors TOS Uhura
Reportedly, Nichele Nichols was initially inclined to leave Star Trek after the first season in order to pursue a career in theater. However, she was thankfully persuaded otherwise by none other than Martin Luther King Jr. Despite Uhura's limited involvement in the original series (TOS), she proved herself capable on away missions and held her own among her mostly male colleagues. As a linguistics expert and proficient translator, Uhura excelled in her role as a communications officer. Additionally, she was highly regarded by the TOS Enterprise crew and often impressed them with her sharp sense of humor and delightful singing voice.
In Strange New Worlds season 2, Celia Rose Gooding's portrayal of Uhura not only possesses a beautiful voice but also showcases similarities with Nichols' rendition of the character. The younger Uhura begins to embody the older version's confidence and poise. Both Gooding and Nichols encapsulate the compassion and empathy that have always defined Uhura. Undoubtedly, Uhura was already a remarkable character, and Star Trek: Strange New Worlds has only further enhanced her significance and intrigue within the Star Trek universe.
Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 2 is streaming on Paramount+.