Key Takeaways:
– Actor LeVar Burton leveraged his passion and knowledge for the original Star Trek series to secure the role of Geordi La Forge in Star Trek: The Next Generation.
– Burton’s enthusiasm was so intense that he ended up pestering producer Robert Justman for Star Trek stories, which eventually secured him a call back for the new series.
– Interestingly, Sir Patrick Stewart initially thought Star Trek: The Next Generation would only last one season.
– Despite doubts, the series had seven seasons, four original films, and multiple spin-offs, leading Stewart to reprise his role in Star Trek: Picard.
LeVar Burton’s Star Trek Love Leads To Major Role
Stage actor turned international star, Sir Patrick Stewart may be best known for his part as Professor X in the X-Men series. But he gained global stardom with his portrayal of Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation. Interestingly, Stewart had little interest in breaking into TV and film, especially not a sci-fi revival. His co-star, LeVar Burton, however, was deeply passionate about the original Star Trek series. This passion led him straight to a leading role.
Burton, also famous for his part in Roots, fell in love with Star Trek: The Original Series. Even though it lasted only for three seasons, it spawned a new cult fandom post-Star Wars. The original series paved the way for films and a successful global franchise. Burton, as a huge fan, seemed poised to join the cast of The Next Generation.
LeVar Burton’s Genuine Enthusiasm Shines
Throughout his career, Burton has voiced his adoration for the original series. His respect for Gene Roddenberry, the creator of Star Trek who envisioned a hopeful and inclusive future, is evident. Burton’s excitement grew knowing that a producer from the original series was also a part of his film, Emergency Room.
The eager Burton seized the opportunity to learn more about the original Star Trek. He would sit next to producer Robert Justman every day to absorb more about it. This passionate act made him unforgettable when The Next Generation was being developed. Burton’s love for the series was so infectious that Justman ended up inviting him for a role in another Star Trek project.
Patrick Stewart’s Unexpected Long Stay at Star Trek: The Next Generation
On the other side of the universe was Patrick Stewart who was a humble stage actor at the time. Having been part of David Lynch’s Dune, Stewart had a preference for classic literature instead of sci-fi. Interestingly, soon after being discovered at a literary reading at UCLA by Justman, Stewart found himself helming Star Trek: The Next Generation.
As he was not looking for Hollywood work at that time, signing a six-year contract was daunting. His agents and lawyers showed little confidence in the series crossing a single season mark. Acting on their advice, Stewart decided to make some money, soak up some sun, and return home. Little did he know.
Bucking common wisdom, the series not only saw six years but lasted for seven seasons, four movies, and several spin-off shows. Stewart also reprised his role in Star Trek: Picard, marking a stark contrast to his initial skepticism towards the role.
To relive these memorable performances from Burton and Stewart, Star Trek: The Next Generation is available to stream on Paramount+.
