Rumor: Scott Bakula is returning as Captain Archer

According to Giant Freakin’ Robot, which has not indicated this is a rumor, Scott Bakula will be appearing in one of the new Star Trek series as Captain Jonathan Archer from Star Trek: Enterprise. The information came from a “trusted inside source” for the site, and that same source gave them “exclusive scoops regarding Don Cheadle appearing as War Machine in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier and Josh Brolin returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.” So this could or could not be a rumor, but if it isn’t, it’s exciting to think about.

Supposedly, Captain Archer will likely appear on Star Trek: Picard, which has its concerns, and there’s more.  That same source indicates that Archer’s cameo could open the door to another solo series if enough viewers are interested. And though the possibility of a series sounds a little iffy, especially since Scott Bakula currently stars as Dwayne Pride on NCIS: New Orleans, it would be feasible for him to show up on a series, although, with Picard’s timeline, Archer’s appearance might be a time travel episode or perhaps a dream. The site mentioned the possibility of Bakula appearing in Strange New Worlds, but that would have to be an episode with Archer from the future because it’s been 16 years since Bakula appeared in the role, and time catches up with all of us. But I’m sure the writers can work something out if this actually happens.

Looking at this logically, it does make sense that the powers-that-be would be interested in having another one of the Star Trek captains make an appearance in the franchise. Kate Mulgrew is already returning to the Trek universe as Captain Kathryn Janeway on Star Trek: Prodigy, and there are have been rumors swirling that Avery Brooks is open to returning as Captain Sisko from Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Getting another captain back into the universe would get more fans excited, especially those of us that are Enterprise fans.

Whether or not this comes to fruition remains to be seen. If it does, I certainly hope Captain Kirk is the next commander to be seen in one of the Star Trek series. When you think about it, using previous captains to boost ratings and draw in viewers who loved the older series is a solid game plan.