StarTrek: Deep Space Nine 30 most memorable characters ranked

5. Quark

Armin Shimerman was one of the first actors to play a Ferengi, in the TNG episode “The Last Outpost.” But on Deep Space Nine, Shimerman played the definitive Ferengi. Barkeeper Quark could easily have been a one-note character—the scheming con artist, always running afoul of the law. But while Quark and Constable Odo had their share of conflict, they also developed a respect for one another. Their unusual friendship was only one area in which Shimerman made Quark so much more than a caricature.

4. Kira Nerys

Originally, the Star Trek creative team wanted Michelle Forbes to reprise her role as Ro Laren on Deep Space Nine. Fortunately for us all, she was unavailable or uninterested, and the team created Kira Nerys, played so wonderfully by Nana Visitor. Full of fiery resistance to Starfleet’s authority, deep and abiding religious faith, passion for those she loves and deep compassion for those who suffer, and a sharp tongue when called for, Kira is a brilliant creation. She also helped pave the way for Star Trek’s future depictions of women in leadership, preceding Kathryn Janeway and Michael Burnham. Here’s hoping we get to learn about now-Colonel Kira’s further adventures in future Star Trek projects, too.

3. Odo

Superlatives fail to describe René Auberjonois’ artistry as Odo. As the Spock-like character of Deep Space Nine—the not-quite-human outsider who comments on and often even illustrates the human condition—Odo occupied a critical space in the Deep Space Nine format. Auberjonois played the constable’s gruff exterior and softer side equally well. While his makeup was no doubt miserable, he brought a clear joy to the role that shines through.

2. Jadzia Dax

Anyone who, like Dr. Bashir in the early seasons, made the mistake of thinking Jadzia Dax was simply another pretty face quickly got an education. Terry Farrell brought physical beauty to the part, but also and more importantly intelligence, humor, and authority. It does not take long at all to believe she is the “old man” Sisko trusts for sage counsel and warm friendship. Her departure before the series’ end is the only unfortunate aspect of Farrell’s performance, as Dax remains one of Star Trek’s all-time most enjoyable characters.

1. Benjamin Sisko

Avery Brooks was the first American actor and the first African American actor to head the cast of a Star Trek series. While Sisko came to the station with the rank of commander, in the third season he was given the captain’s rank he richly deserved. Depending on what a scene called for, Brooks played Sisko with quiet dignity, fierce moral vision, gentle affection, and wry humor. He was also unafraid to play Sisko with the moral ambiguity sometimes demanded, in such standout episodes as “In the Pale Moonlight.” From his explanation of linear time to the wormhole aliens (the Prophets) in “Emissary” to his transcendence of the same in “What You Leave Behind,” Avery Brooks was consistently compelling as Captain Benjamin Sisko.