The curtain has finally fallen on Star Trek: Discovery. The series finale, “Life, Itself,” aired on Paramount+, wrapping up the journeys of its beloved characters. Doug Jones, who has portrayed the steadfast Saru since the show’s debut in 2017, shared his reflections on the series’ emotional conclusion and the epilogue moment that particularly resonated with him.
Saru’s storyline culminated in a poignant celebration as he wed T’Rina, the Vulcan president of N’Var. Jones, in an interview, expressed satisfaction with this conclusion, describing the filming of the wedding scene as a genuine celebration. “It felt like an actual party,” Jones said. “We wrapped up every season so beautifully, always leaving the audience to wonder if it was the end.”
Season 5 saw Saru stepping into his role as an ambassador for the United Federation of Planets, a fitting progression for his character. Despite the cast and crew learning about the series’ end only after filming, Jones felt that Saru’s journey had reached a satisfying endpoint. “Saru has had a promotion, and he’s engaged to a diplomat,” he noted. “It’s a lovely conclusion.”
However, the true emotional highlight for Jones was the epilogue scene he shared with Sonequa Martin-Green, who plays Captain Michael Burnham. This scene set decades in the future, showed Burnham as a Starfleet admiral, reminiscing about her time with her crew.
“Filming that scene was incredibly emotional,” Jones recalled. “Sonequa and I embraced, repeating ‘I love you’ to each other between takes. It was a beautiful, heartfelt moment.”
Paramount+ allowed the team additional time to shoot this epilogue, which Jones appreciated as it gave fans a chance to bid a proper farewell. “That coda was a great gift,” he said. “It gave us closure and allowed the audience to have their goodbyes too.”
Star Trek: Discovery may have ended, but the Star Trek universe continues to expand. Fans can look forward to upcoming shows like Starfleet Academy and the highly anticipated Section 31 movie starring Michelle Yeoh. For now, Doug Jones and the “Discovery” cast leave behind a legacy of emotional and inspiring storytelling.
Stay tuned to Paramount+ for all the latest “Star Trek” adventures.
