Star Trek: Starfleet Academy has been a joy to watch for both new and old fans alike. With so much emotion stemming from fantastic writing on the show, one can only wonder what season 2 will bring as the series finds its true legs. And Genesis Lythe actress Bella Shepard suggests that we will see "deeper relationships" develop during sophomore year. When asked to compare the vibe on set between season 1 and 2, Shepard responded by saying (via TrekMovie.com):
"Oh my gosh, so many things have changed, almost as a reflection to what our cadets went through in season 1. And then seeing what they go through in season 2. Our cadets are more tight knit in season 2 because their relationships are deeper, and I think we’re all experiencing that now in real life as well, because we’ve known each other for longer now."
Shepard continued by saying:
"And so it’s hard to come to an end and not know exactly what’s happening next. But also, we’re all just really proud of ourselves. I keep reminding everyone that we just did two seasons, basically back-to-back, and that’s a lot of work. And we all did it together, and what a beautiful journey it was. But people are – it’s always sad to say goodbye, or not goodbye, but ‘See you later.’ And I think it’s really, it’s just bittersweet."
Starfleet Academy put the theme of connection at the core of the show from the start when Caleb Mir was ripped away from his mother and forced to survive on his own. That set the tone for serious character development necessary to resolve both internal and external conflicts amongst the main characters.
With the majority of those characters in their teenage years and early 20s, relationships between them can be complicated. We are witnessing individuals from incredibly diverse backgrounds navigate life and rigorous academics at the most technical boarding school in the galaxy, not to mention, several external threats continue to rear their heads.
The characters already have fantastic on-screen chemistry: to think that these actors are getting closer in real life is very exciting for fans of this show. Actor chemistry is not everything, but when it exists, it can be palpable.
Shepard’s comments also subtly tease continued misadventures amongst this misfit crew. The best Trek series have always found a way to develop character chemistry through shared experiences. Just look at the timelessness of the Next Generation cast as an example.
With so much to process, these main characters have no choice but to rely on their relationships with each other. Peers are the best support systems because they understand the struggle.
If we are in for deeper connections in season 2, then I, for one, am here for it. Starfleet Academy's writing has been beautiful to this point, and its beauty should only continue to be showcased as we head into season 2.
Are you excited for season 2? Share your thoughts and comments with us on the Redshirts Always Die Facebook and X pages. And new episodes of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy drop every Thursday on Paramount+ through March 12.