Holly Hunter steps into the iconic “Star Trek” universe as Captain Nahla Ake in the new series “Star Trek: Starfleet Academy,” which premieres with two episodes streaming on October 5, 2023, on Paramount+. Set in the 32nd century, this series marks the first introduction of a new class of cadets in over a century, training to become officers in a time of transition for the Federation.
Hunter’s character, Nahla Ake, is the chancellor of Starfleet Academy and the half-alien captain of the USS Athena. In a recent virtual press conference, she discussed the themes of change and conflict that define the series. “Stories are always about conflict, a world is in flux,” Hunter noted. “We often explore broken worlds and how to evolve from them, as we’re always in a state of change.”
The series is set against the backdrop of a Federation grappling with the aftermath of “The Burn,” a catastrophic event that occurred 125 years prior. Hunter emphasized the narrative’s focus on this transition and evolution, stating, “This is the beginning of that story, that conflict.”
Fresh Perspectives and Dynamic Storytelling
What sets “Starfleet Academy” apart from previous “Star Trek” series is its exclusive focus on the Academy and its cadets. Hunter expressed excitement about the opportunity to bring fresh talent into the franchise. “It’s chaotic, spontaneous and joyful. Relaxed and tragic,” she described, highlighting the diverse and vibrant cast.
At 67 years old, Hunter, who has received four Oscar nominations and won one, along with two Emmys and a BAFTA, continues to embrace new challenges in her career. Reflecting on her initial experience on set in Toronto, she shared, “The sets alone were thrilling. The mid-century furniture! The look of it was so enlivening.”
Hunter recalled her childhood memories of “Star Trek” and how walking onto the new sets reignited that sense of wonder. “Even though I’m not a ‘Star Trek’ aficionado, it still makes me feel like a child. That’s one of the reasons why many people watch ‘Star Trek’: It gives you a sense of wonder.”
Navigating Change Through Youthful Energy
In her portrayal of Nahla, Hunter aims to embody a spirit of adaptability. “Children and youth experience vivid change constantly and don’t care about it,” she explained. “As you get older, you start minding change; you want things to be the way they were. I wanted Nahla to be the opposite of that.”
Despite her character’s age of 422 years, Hunter chose to depict Nahla with a youthful perspective, emphasizing her desire to embrace change. “I wanted to choose youth,” she stated.
As “Star Trek: Starfleet Academy” prepares to launch, audiences can look forward to an exploration of new narratives within the cherished franchise, highlighting the journeys of young cadets as they train to face an evolving universe. Hunter’s enthusiasm for the role and commitment to portraying a dynamic character promise to bring fresh energy to this latest installment of the beloved series.
