Laris does return in season three of Star Trek: Picard

Laris and Admiral Picard were starting a relationship in Star Trek: Picard.

At the beginning of season two of Star Trek: Picard, Laris, played by Orla Brady, admitted her feelings for Admiral Jean-Luc Picard (Patrick Stewart). When he didn’t immediately reciprocate, she packed up with the intention of leaving the chateau. But, by the end of the season three, Picard had battled his demons and was ready to love. The ending scene between the couple showed the beginnings of a romantic relationship.

But season three of the series has most of the cast of Star Trek: The Next Generation returning, including a woman Picard has always loved from afar, Dr. Beverly Crusher played by Gates McFadden. Her return to his world puts a big question mark over Picard’s relationship with Laris.

Star Trek: Picard is making room for all of the Star Trek: The Next Generation guest stars.

With The Next Generation characters returning, there has been no mention of Orla Brady’s return to the series which has seen the exit of most of the series’ stars with the exception of Jeri Ryan and Michelle Hurd. At least not until now.

In an interview with TrekMovie’s All Access Star Trek podcast, Picard season three showrunner Terry Matalas confirmed that Brady would be returning. Unfortunately, Laris won’t be a huge part of the season.

"You will see Laris in season three… She is not a huge part of the season, but Orla Brady is wonderful. In fact, my favorite Orla scene is this one scene in the first episode of season three."

While she appears in the first episode of the season, it’s obvious the series won’t be spending a lot of time exploring her relationship with Picard, wihch is a shame. Though many have wanted a romance between Picard and Crusher, Orla Brady and Patrick Stewart have amazing chemistry, and Picard deserves a happily ever after.  Perhaps the producers have something bigger in mind for Picard. We won’t know until season three rolls around, but it seems a shame to have set up a relationship that might not get to continue.