Holly Hunter joins the iconic universe of “Star Trek” in the highly anticipated series, Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, which premieres two episodes on March 7, 2024, exclusively on Paramount+. Set in the 32nd century, this new installment marks a significant moment for the franchise, focusing on the first class of cadets in over a century as they prepare to become officers.
In her role as Captain Nahla Ake, Hunter portrays the half-alien chancellor of the academy and captain of the USS Athena. Speaking at a recent virtual press conference, she shared her enthusiasm for the series’ exploration of transformation and conflict. “Stories are always about conflict; a world is in flux,” Hunter explained. “Often, we have stories about broken worlds and how we are going to evolve from that because we’re always in a state of change.”
The series begins with the Federation in a challenging transition following a catastrophic event known as The Burn, which occurred 125 years prior. Hunter emphasized the importance of evolution during this tumultuous time, stating, “This is the beginning of that story, that conflict.”
A Fresh Perspective on the Academy
What sets Starfleet Academy apart from previous iterations is its exclusive focus on the training grounds for future Starfleet officers. Hunter noted the excitement of introducing a new generation of actors to the beloved franchise, describing the atmosphere as “chaotic, spontaneous, and joyful.” She added, “It’s relaxed and tragic,” capturing the essence of their shared journey.
At 67, with numerous accolades including four Oscar nominations (one win), two Emmys, a BAFTA, a Golden Globe, and Berlin’s Silver Bear, Hunter remains eager to embrace challenges. Her arrival on set in Toronto rekindled childhood memories of the original series. “The sets alone, from the beginning when I watched it as a kid, were thrilling,” she reflected. “I had that same charge when I walked onto these sets. Right off the bat, it was a shot of excitement for me.”
While she may not consider herself a dedicated fan of the franchise, Hunter finds joy in its ability to evoke a sense of wonder. “That’s one of the reasons why a lot of people watch ‘Star Trek’: It gives you a sense of wonder,” she stated.
Embracing Change
Hunter aims to embody a character that embraces change rather than fearing it. “Children and youth are about really vivid, not subtle, change. They’re changing all the time—and they don’t care about change,” she explained. In contrast, she noted that as people age, they often become resistant to change. “And I wanted Nahla to be the opposite of that. Even though I was 422 years old, I wanted to be youthful. I wanted to choose youth.”
With its focus on new cadets and the challenges they face, Star Trek: Starfleet Academy promises to deliver a fresh narrative while staying true to the essence of the beloved series. As audiences prepare to embark on this new journey in the Star Trek universe, Hunter’s enthusiasm and dedication will undoubtedly resonate with both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
