Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, streaming this week on Paramount+ with two back-to-back episodes, is a fresh take on one of television’s most beloved sci-fi franchises. Created by Gaia Violo, the series shifts the usual interstellar setting to a grounded, academic environment while keeping true to Trek’s core values. Set in the 32nd century after the “Burn” timeline from Star Trek: Discovery, this show offers a mix of high-stakes sci-fi and youthful energy, aiming to welcome a new generation into the Star Trek fold.
Story
The rebuilt Starfleet Academy, located in Sausalito with San Francisco across the bay, now serves as the training ground for the Federation’s future leaders. Chancellor Nahla Ake, portrayed by Holly Hunter, is both captain of the USS Athena and head of the academy. In an inventive twist, the ship’s saucer section doubles as the campus’s main building.
The narrative kicks off with a flashback to 15 years prior, where a young Caleb Mir is separated from his mother during a mission gone wrong involving space pirate Nus Braka, played with gleeful menace by Paul Giamatti. Haunted by her role in these events, Ake leaves Starfleet but is persuaded back by Admiral Vance, who offers her the chance to help rebuild a fractured Federation.
Caleb, now older and played by Sandro Rosta, is a skilled but rebellious figure whose arrival at the academy sparks tension with fellow cadets, including rival roommate Darem Reymi. Alongside them are characters like Genesis Lythe, Sam the holographic Kasqian, and Jay-Den Kraag, a peaceful Klingon with a love for birdwatching. Their journeys explore themes of trust, teamwork, and personal growth, with occasional off-planet adventures adding danger and excitement.
Performances
Holly Hunter’s Chancellor Ake is a refreshing departure from the typical Starfleet captain—casual, quirky, and unafraid to walk barefoot around her ship. Sandro Rosta brings intensity to Caleb, while George Hawkins as Darem provides sharp contrast as his privileged rival. Paul Giamatti’s Braka is a standout villain, and Kerrice Brooks shines as the charming and high-energy Sam.
Supporting roles from Tig Notaro as engineer Jett Reno, Gina Yashere as first officer Lura Thok, and Robert Picardo reprising his holographic Doctor give the adult cast plenty of opportunities to deliver humor and heart. Even Stephen Colbert’s voice performance as the Digital Dean adds a playful layer to the series.
Behind the Scenes
The production cleverly blends Star Trek’s futuristic aesthetic with the relatable dynamics of a college campus. The set design—particularly the Athena’s saucer-turned-campus—offers visual appeal while serving narrative efficiency. The writing balances sci-fi action with interpersonal drama, reminiscent of early-season ensemble shows, but in a uniquely Trek way.
Final Verdict
Star Trek: Starfleet Academy may not be to every Trek fan’s taste, especially those who prefer spacefaring adventures over campus drama. However, its mix of humor, heart, and high-concept sci-fi makes it a welcome addition to the franchise. It’s a bold experiment that embraces inclusivity and youthful storytelling while staying connected to the Star Trek spirit. For viewers open to a different flavor of Trek, this series is worth enrolling in.
Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, premiered on Paramount+ on Thursday, January 15 with two episodes. The series will then transition to a weekly release schedule, with the season finale scheduled for March 12.
