Star Trek: Picard returns on February 16th for its third and final season.
Onboard the Enterprise on Star Trek: The Next Generation, Dr. Beverly Crusher (Gates McFadden) had a more sedate role. She was a doctor so it was understandable that she stayed out of the fights most of the time. Though she could be formidable in her arguments, she wasn’t a feared leader or demanding officer like Captain Picard or Commander Riker. She could defend herself and those around her if necessary, but she wasn’t put in that many situations during The Next Generation’s tenure.
Star Trek: Picard shows a very different side to the doctor in the brief final sneak peek trailer that dropped on Star Trek Day. In it, Dr. Crusher is seen holding her own in a battle against an unknown enemy. Dressed all in black, she looks like she’s accustomed to holding the weapon she’s carrying. Perhaps this is one of the reasons why Picard showrunner, Terry Matalas, said back in April that we weren’t ready for Beverly.
The Star Trek: Picard trailer also reveals who reaches out to Admiral Jean-Luc Picard for help.
It’s Dr. Crusher’s voice asking for help from what looks to be an old comm badge, and she clearly says “we need your help.” So whatever she’s involved in, she’s not alone. It’s doubtful she’s with another crew member from the Enterprise as they all haven’t seen one another in many years. But they could have possibly interacted shortly before the season begins because of whatever destructive force they’re facing now.
The plea does bring up the question why is Dr. Crusher reaching out to Admiral Picard. Is this new villain connected to him? Or is it connected to that family “secret” that Stewart talked about? Why, after all these many years, is Picard’s help needed?
All told, this sneak peek does what it’s intended to do, and that’s pique our curiosity. It’s put together extremely well, and the brief glimpses of the team only make me want more. I’m looking forward to seeing this new side of Dr. Beverly Crusher as well.