Jonathan Frakes, a beloved figure in the Star Trek universe, is set to continue his directing journey with Star Trek: Strange New Worlds and possibly Starfleet Academy. Frakes has directed episodes across every live-action Star Trek series on Paramount+ and has reprised his iconic role as Captain William T. Riker on Star Trek: Picard and Star Trek: Lower Decks.
His directing credits include an episode from the upcoming season 3 of Strange New Worlds. Additionally, Starfleet Academy has announced Holly Hunter, an Academy Award-winning actress, as its series lead.
In a recent interview with Screen Rant, Frakes discussed his work on the final episode of Star Trek: Discovery, season 5, episode 9, titled “Lagrange Point.” He shared insights into his future with Star Trek: Strange New Worlds and the possibility of directing Starfleet Academy. Frakes revealed:
“I’m gonna keep going on Strange [New Worlds]. I was asked to come and do Starfleet Academy, but the [episode directing] slot conflicted with my son’s wedding. So I’ll come back, hopefully, for the second season [of] Academy.”
Updates on Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 3 & Starfleet Academy
Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 3 has been filming since December and is nearing the completion of its 10th and final episode. Paramount+ has already renewed the show for a fourth season, ensuring fans will see more of their favourite crew. Season 3’s directors include Chris Fisher, Dan Liu, Jordan Canning, Valerie Weiss, and Jonathan Frakes, all known for their work in season 2. Frakes plans to return for season 4, continuing his strong connection with the series.
With Star Trek: Discovery and Star Trek: Lower Decks both concluding with their fifth seasons, Strange New Worlds and Starfleet Academy will remain the primary Star Trek series on Paramount+.
Starfleet Academy, produced by Alex Kurtzman and Noga Landau, starts production in late summer 2024. The series will feature the largest sets ever constructed for Star Trek, starring Holly Hunter as the Chancellor and Captain, alongside a younger cast portraying cadets.
Fans may also see familiar faces from Star Trek: Discovery and, hopefully, Jonathan Frakes directing in season 2 of Starfleet Academy.
