Star Trek: Strange New Worlds season 5 recently wrapped filming its truncated allotment of six episodes in Toronto, and many cast members continuously updated their social media channels with behind-the-scenes photos and footage. For instance, Celia Rose Gooding performed a celebratory dance on the red-cushioned captain’s seat aboard the starship Enterprise set, which is likely the “throne” from which Paul Wesley’s James T. Kirk will command.
However, wouldn’t it be wonderful to also catch at least a glimpse of Kirk’s best friend, who turned into an all-powerful god in the Star Trek: The Original Series season 1 episode “Where No Man Has Gone Before?” Yes, I’m talking about Gary Mitchell.
After all, it only makes sense that we see Mitchell as Kirk’s crew takes to the stars for their five-year mission. And we already know that Wesley’s version of the iconic commander will be taking the reins in the finale, so including Mr. Mitchell is a no-brainer.
During this year’s Tribeca Film Festival, co-showrunner Akiva Goldsman confirmed that Kirk taking command will be featured in Strange New Worlds season 5. Goldman told the panel’s audience (via TrekMovie.com) that “We will take the show to Kirk’s first day of command, which is by the way, not actually The Original Series. The Original Series starts a bit into Kirk’s command.”
What Goldsman said next seemed to open the door for Kirk’s buddy Gary Mitchell to make a guest appearance in the Strange New Worlds series final: “I think of ‘Where No Man Has Gone Before.'" However, he also indicated the episode didn't feel like Kirk's first or even second mission, so there isn't any chance of seeing Mitchell's evil alter ego — only the captain's friend. (Continued...)