The Star Trek: Strange New Worlds cast brings together both familiar faces from the original series and fresh interpretations of those roles. At its core, the show centers on the key officers aboard the USS Enterprise—Captain Pike, Spock, Number One, and the rest of the bridge crew—portrayed by talented actors who inject new life and depth. Let’s dive into who they are and what they bring.
Main Crew of the USS Enterprise
Captain Christopher Pike – Anson Mount
Anson Mount plays the empathetic and thoughtful Captain Christopher Pike. His Pike isn’t just tough—he’s collaborative and reflective. Mount’s portrayal is grounded in emotional intelligence, inspired by his personal experiences and a genuine desire to lead with heart rather than bravado.
Science Officer Spock – Ethan Peck
Ethan Peck steps into the half-human, half-Vulcan role of Spock, offering a younger, still-emotional take on the character. He balances logic and latent emotion, portraying Spock’s duality in intriguing ways.
Number One (Una Chin‑Riley) – Rebecca Romijn
Rebecca Romijn brings nuance and authority to Number One, the Enterprise’s first officer. The show reveals her name (Una Chin‑Riley), placing a real identity on a character long only known by rank, and explores her internal conflicts—especially her Illyrian heritage and genetic modifications.
Nurse Christine Chapel – Jess Bush
Jess Bush portrays Christine Chapel not as a shy ship’s nurse from the past, but as witty, sarcastic, and emotionally grounded. She modernizes Chapel, turning her into a strong supporting presence on the Enterprise.
Chief Engineer Hemmer – Bruce Horak (Season 1)
Bruce Horak plays Hemmer, an Aenar engineer: blind, meticulous, and nurturing. His character was written to meet a tragic end, making his presence all the more meaningful. Hemmer’s portrayal marks a milestone—Horak is the first legally blind actor in a Star Trek series.
Other Key Bridge Members
Lt. Erica Ortegas – Melissa Navia
Melissa Navia’s Ortegas is the ship’s helmsman—a skilled pilot with a quick wit. Her character references early pitch drafts of Star Trek and is portrayed as both action-capable and approachable.
Cadet Nyota Uhura – Celia Rose Gooding
Celia Rose Gooding reinterprets Uhura as a cadet with linguistic brilliance and growing confidence. She steps into the role with modern sensibility, embracing her heritage while carving her own path.
Dr. Joseph M’Benga – Babs Olusanmokun
Babs Olusanmokun explores M’Benga’s complexity— a combat medic turned chief of the sickbay, driven by his desire to heal his daughter. His portrayal balances professional calm with deep personal motivation.
Recurring and Guest Characters
Mr. Spock’s Fiancée T’Pring – Gia Sandhu
Gia Sandhu steps into T’Pring’s shoes, bringing intelligence and thoughtful interaction to Spock’s early life; the role deepens his background beyond the Original Series.
Admiral Robert April – Adrian Holmes
Adrian Holmes portrays Robert April, the Enterprise’s first captain and a mentor figure to Pike. His shift from white voice actor in the Animated Series to Holmes offers both gravitas and fresh perspective.
Ensign George Samuel “Sam” Kirk – Dan Jeannotte
Dan Jeannotte plays Sam Kirk, James T. Kirk’s older brother. Their dynamic adds depth to the Kirk legacy and sets up future tension and affection.
Pelia – Carol Kane (from Season 2)
Carol Kane portrays Pelia, Hemmer’s successor—a Lanthanite engineer described as ancient in age and sly in character. Kane chose a unique accent to reinforce her character’s alien aura.
Roger Korby – Cillian O’Sullivan
Cillian O’Sullivan portrays Roger Korby, a brilliant archaeologist engaged to Chapel. His Irish accent and charming demeanor create a thoughtful match for Chapel’s wit.
Beto Ortegas – Mynor Luken
Mynor Luken appears as Erica Ortegas’s younger brother, Beto, giving insight into the pilot’s personal life beyond duty.
Exciting New Additions in Season 5
Commander McCoy and Sulu – Thomas Jane & Kai Murakami
The final episode of Season 5 introduces two beloved Enterprise icons: Thomas Jane as Dr. Leonard “Bones” McCoy and Kai Murakami as Hikaru Sulu. This sets the stage for a potential narrative bridge toward a Kirk-led storyline.
Surprise Guests & Fan-Favorite Moments
Season 3 featured Rhys Darby as Trelane, a playful and powerful alien from The Original Series. He stages a surreal wedding for Spock and Chapel, blending comedy, nostalgia, and emotional beats. John de Lancie (“Q”) voiced Trelane’s father, linking to fan theories about the Q Continuum.
A Human Take on the Crew
What stands out about this ensemble is how they feel lived-in—imperfect, warm, and layered with flaws. They argue, joke, remember, and dream together. That’s the heart of Strange New Worlds. They’re exploring—and we’re along for the ride.
Conclusion
Star Trek: Strange New Worlds has assembled a standout cast that blends legacy and innovation. Anson Mount’s Pike leads with heart. Rebecca Romijn enriches the enigmatic Number One. Celia Rose Gooding brings youthful fire to Uhura. And others like Hemmer, M’Benga, Ortegas, and Chapel fill the Enterprise with humanity, humor, and depth.
Capping it off with McCoy and Sulu in Season 5 feels like a cosmic wink—pointing to future journeys. It’s a cast that respects Star Trek’s past while boldly charting new stories.
FAQs
Who plays Captain Pike in Strange New Worlds?
Anson Mount portrays Captain Christopher Pike, offering a more open-hearted and collaborative leadership style than earlier Trekkie captains.
Is Number One given a real name in the series?
Yes. Rebecca Romijn’s character is officially named Una Chin‑Riley, adding depth to the previously nameless First Officer.
Who portrays Uhura in this prequel?
Celia Rose Gooding plays a young Uhura, reimagining the bridge officer as an ambitious and modern cadet.
Will Bones and Sulu appear in the series?
Yes. Thomas Jane and Kai Murakami will debut as McCoy and Sulu in the final episode of Season 5—hinting at a transition to Kirk’s era.
What happened to Engineer Hemmer?
Bruce Horak’s Hemmer was designed to die in Season 1 to raise stakes and narrative tension—though he returned in recordings, lending emotional weight.
Does the series include fun guest appearances?
Absolutely. Season 3 features Rhys Darby as Trelane in a playful wedding episode, complete with cosmic mischief and heart.
