As the thrilling final season of Paramount Plus' Star Trek: Picard concludes - and fans deal with their feelings about it- Patrick Stewart weighs in on his feelings on wrapping the series and what the future holds for him and Star Trek.
Star Trek: Picard chronicles the latter years of Jean Luc Picard, made famous in the legacy show Star Trek: The Next Generation by veteran actor Stewart, as he deals with the death of an old friend and the loss of the planet of Romulus in what should be a quiet, well-earned retirement. However, things predictably don’t stay that way, and the legendary Captain is forced back into the swing of things for two exciting seasons before reuniting with the crew of The Next Generation for the series’ final season, with some notable exceptions like Denise Crosby not returning as Tasha Yar from the original crew.
Stewart spoke to Variety about his feelings toward the show, which gave fans a chance to watch the Picard finale in IMAX. “I feel very good about it. We all talked about 'Picard' far more than we ever talked about 'Next Generation.' You know, the scripts would just arrive on 'Next Generation.' For this, from the very earliest meeting that I had with Alex and Akiva, it was always based on a new energy in the show, a different group of people. We were going to acknowledge the actual years that had passed," he said. "I found that one of the best elements of the show, especially when we began to assemble again. We were not just celebrating a reunion. Not remotely. It was absolutely vital that this group of people came together because of the contribution that they could make, and the necessity of their being there… I hope that it will be seen as something which will stand alone, not just 'Next Generation Part 2.'"
Stewart responded enthusiastically when asked if he’d like to return to the Star Trek franchise. “Yes. The circumstances, as it was with 'Picard,' would be the important factor in all of that. But certainly, there is a wonderful future for Ed there, I’m sure of it. And if I can occasionally crop up to offer a little bit of comedy myself, then I shall be happy to do that.” The actor, who also teased a potential cameo in the MCU's X-Men integration plans in his iconic role as Professor X, will be a welcome sight for fans as the Star Trek franchise grows under Paramount.
As the viewing audience comes to grips with the end of Picard, it remains to be seen how certain aspects of the show, like the changes made to Picard's portrayal from The Next Generation, will be remembered. However, it's safe to say that the series, specifically the final season, is assured a favorable place in the franchise’s canon.
Star Trek: Picard is now available for streaming on Paramount Plus.
Source: Variety