“Imzadi” says everything Trekkies need to know about their off-screen relationship.
On-screen chemistry is so important to the relationships encompassing creator Gene Roddenberry’s beloved science fiction universe. Unfortunately, though, Trekkies are all too aware of those Star Trek actors who have issues with their co-stars on and off-screen, and the leading example is arguably the rift over the years between George Takei and William Shatner. However, no such bad blood exists between Star Trek: The Next Generation’s Marina Sirtis and Jonathan Frakes.
Certainly, their characters’ romantic relationship in TNG was complicated, but Counsellor Deanna Troi and Commander William Riker maintained a healthy working relationship and friendship even when sparks weren't flying between them. And off-screen, it’s clear that Sirtis and Frakes adore one another. In fact, the Next Gen actress shared a very emotional and heartwarming story on social media, which is sure to make Trekkies tear up, especially when they hear her utter the Betazed word, “Imzadi.” which translates to “my beloved.” Sirtis said in a video she posted to Instagram:
“He really is my Imzadi. He calls me his daytime wife […] We do honestly, truly adore each other.”
Sirtis then fought back the tears as she recalled having lost her husband Michael Lamper back in 2019. The heartbreaking loss happened not long before the onset of COVID-19 in 2020, and it was Frakes who constantly checked in on his dear friend during the pandemic.
“Jonathan, I love you with all my heart,” Sirtis said after sharing her heartwarming story. “God bless you, my darling.” And Frakes responded to her Instagram post by writing in the comments, “My Imzadi made me cry too. Marina made me a better actor too.” For those who are new to the Star Trek franchise, Sirtis and Frakes first worked together as Troi and Riker in all seven seasons of The Next Generation. Most recently, the duo reprised their roles together on-screen for the must-see third season of Star Trek: Picard.
These are the sort of stories I love to hear as a lifelong Trekkie. Obviously, not all actors enjoy working with one another, nor do they form such meaningful friendships which endure for years after all the hours of collaborating on a creative venture. So, it’s wonderful to know Jonathan Frakes and Marina Sirtis remain so close today.
For more Star Trek coverage, visit the Redshirts Always Die Facebook and X pages. And check out Marina Sirtis' lovely Instagram post in its entirety (above).