Whether you’re a fan or not of “Star Trek,” it’s undeniable that the series has ventured into new territories in the television realm. This expansion also applies to the broader cast, including “Star Trek: The Next Generation” star Jonathan Frakes, who replaced the initial actor to take on the role of William Riker. Frakes expanded his skills by directing several episodes of “The Next Generation” and furthered his directing career by working on two of TNT’s “The Librarian” films starring Noah Wyle.

These made-for-TV movies follow Flynn Carsen (Wyle) in a series of adventures reminiscent of Indiana Jones, filled with action, humor, and numerous pop culture references. This was a perfect fit for Frakes, particularly after experiencing setbacks in his directing career, notably following the less-than-ideal reception of “Thunderbirds.” Around this time, producer Dean Devlin offered Frakes the opportunity to direct the second “Librarian” movie for TNT, marking a pivotal moment in Frakes’ career and leading to a lasting relationship with Devlin and Wyle.

Frakes recalls Devlin’s pivotal call inviting him to direct “The Librarians” sequel set in Africa. This opportunity reinvigorated Frakes’ career and fostered a close partnership with Devlin and Wyle. Frakes directed “The Librarian: Return to King Solomon’s Mines” and later returned for the third installment, “The Librarian: Curse of the Judas Chalice,” in 2008.

Although the “The Librarian” films concluded with “Curse of the Judas Chalice,” the franchise didn’t end there. Producer Dean Devlin had plans to extend the series into longer-form television. As a result, “The Librarians” premiered on TNT in 2014. While Noah Wyle reprised his role as Flynn, the narrative introduced additional Librarians tasked with safeguarding the Library. Frakes was actively involved in the series, directing 10 episodes over its four seasons.

Frakes chose to work on “The Librarians” because of the enjoyable collaboration with Wyle and Devlin. In a 2017 IndieWire interview, Frakes praised Wyle’s multifaceted role in the series, crediting him as the franchise’s heart. Frakes’ contributions to the series extended beyond directing as he also became a producer during its third season.

The journey for “The Librarians” ended after 42 episodes in 2018, leading Frakes back to the “Star Trek” universe, where he directed episodes for “Picard,” “Strange New Worlds,” and “Discovery.” Frakes continued collaborating with Devlin, notably on “Leverage: Redemption.”

After years of fans waiting for “The Librarians” franchise to return yet again, TNT revitalized the world of magical artifacts, alternate dimensions, and time-traveling adventures with a new team of heroes to undertake them. 2025’s “The Librarians: The Next Chapter” took some cues from “Star Trek: The Next Generation” in that it introduced an all-new cast dealing with new threats. Certain characters and elements from the original series have crossed over (and the show does establish that the original team is still out there), but fans continue to wonder if previous creatives like Jonathan Frakes will be involved.

Considering this spin-off series is basically the franchise’s “The Next Generation,” it would be appropriate for Frakes to return in some form, even if that means as an actor in front of the camera. Unfortunately, there is no news on whether Frakes will collaborate further with producer Dean Devlin on this particular venture. 

Apart from directing episodes of “Leverage: Redemption” and “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds” — which will be ending with Season 5 — in 2025, Frakes has several other projects in development, both in his acting and directing capacities. But with news that “The Next Chapter” has been renewed for a second season, here’s hoping that Frakes will return to “The Librarians” franchise at some point in the near future.