It's never easy to say goodbye to a beloved Star Trek series when its time comes to an end, and the cast and crew mourn them just as much as the fans do. Star Trek: Strange New Worlds is facing that ending now, as it's been announced that the series will end with its fifth season. However, Jess Bush, who plays Christine Chapel in the series, is thankful for the fans who attend conventions and soften the blow of cancellation.
Bush recently told TrekMovie.com, “I think it’s really special. The end of this show was really poignant for us, very bittersweet. And so I think still being able to come to these conventions and talk to you guys and to see each other… I think that it really softens the blow of the end."
Bush added:
"I think it’s an incredible gift. I think a lot of actors don’t get this kind of thing with their shows, in terms of continuation of conventions. It’s special, if you’re lucky.”
It's gratifying to know that many Star Trek actors enjoy attending conventions and speaking at panels as much as we fans do! Plus, there's still plenty of Strange New Worlds coverage to come at cons, in the future, since seasons 4 and 5 have yet to be released.
With the cancellation of Strange New Worlds and Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, which will end after its second season, the future of the franchise on television and streaming is uncertain. However, there are new Trek movies being developed.
While conventions, anniversary panels, and other fandom events will undoubtedly continue, the absence of new series is leaving some fans with that same bittersweet feeling that Bush is experiencing.
However, the franchise has endured for 60 years now, and in the meantime, its fans will keep Star Trek alive with their own fan-driven meetups, art, fanfiction, and, as always, hope for a better future. And for more Star Trek content, visit the Redshirts Always Die Facebook and X pages.