“Star Trek” remains one of the most beloved sci-fi franchises, partly because of the ongoing release of new shows. However, there has been pushback from some critics. Now, Robert Picardo, who appeared in “Star Trek: Voyager” and the new series, “Star Trek: Starfleet Academy,” is weighing in and defending the new shows in the franchise.
Picardo and other cast and crew members of “Star Trek: Starfleet Academy” appeared on the “Reel School” podcast in January 2026 to discuss the new Paramount+ series.
When asked about the need for new “Star Trek” shows, the actor said, “Star Trek was founded during the turbulent ’60s at a moment of real cultural and political turmoil. And I think that at times when you have that same critical amount of cultural and political turmoil, the world needs Star Trek more than ever.”
Robert Picardo Defends the State of The ‘Star Trek’ Franchise
GettyPicardo continued the interview with Reel School by discussing some of the backlash that newer “Star Trek” properties have faced. He said, “I’ve heard some fans say that Star Trek has gone too far in its diversity and inclusion.
I completely disagree with that. Why should our idea of diversity and inclusion in 2026 be the same as it was in 1966? 60 years later, we’ve all evolved. Humanity’s evolved. The world’s changed. So Star Trek is as diverse and inclusive as it has ever been, as it should be. Because Star Trek leads. Science fiction dreams the dream, and then science catches up with the dream.”
From there, he discussed how the newest show fits into the “Star Trek” universe, saying, “I think that’s what ‘Starfleet Academy’ is all about optimism for our future, training a new generation of leaders in space. So, you know, what could be better for this moment in time?”
‘Star Trek: Starfleet Academy’ Has Solid Reviews From Critics
“Star Trek: Starfleet Academy” premiered on Paramount+ on January 15 with two episodes. In additon to Picardo, the show stars Holly Hunter, Zoë Steiner, Bella Shepard, Sandro Rosta, and Paul Giamatti. It centers around a new group of cadets and takes place in the 32nd century. The events of the show follow a significant, long-term disaster.
So far, “Star Trek: Starfleet Academy” is a hit with critics. The show currently holds an impressive 88% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Per Paramount+, the season will have 10 episodes in total, with its finale arriving on the platform on March 12.
The “Star Trek” series has been renewed for a second season, and filming is currently underway in Toronto. The streamer hasn’t announced a premiere date.
