Share this @internewscast.com
Warning: Spoilers ahead for “Star Trek: Starfleet Academy” Season 1
Stephen Colbert, known for his sharp wit and humorous take on politics, has been making waves due to the cancellation of “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” which has sparked quite the uproar. However, his fans have a reason to celebrate as he embarks on a new adventure in “Star Trek: Starfleet Academy.”
Stephen Colbert has spent many years breaking down current events and political situations by finding the humor that lies under the surface. He’s been making headlines himself due to the controversial cancellation of “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” and while many are frustrated by this news, his fans can at least get excited about his new role in “Star Trek: Starfleet Academy.”
Colbert expressed his excitement about joining the beloved franchise, quipping, “I’m thrilled to join this universe that I’ve loved for so long, and unlike my on-camera castmates, I’m thrilled to join it without having to spend four hours in hair and makeup every day.” He humorously added, “Live long and do your thing.” In this role, he takes on the character of a dean, pivotal to the functioning of the academy.
The nature of the Digital Dean of Students remains a mystery—is he a mere recording, or something more akin to a sentient hologram like The Doctor (played by Robert Picardo)? What’s clear is that he plays a crucial part in guiding the narrative of “Starfleet Academy,” stepping in when Chancellor Nahla Ake (portrayed by Holly Hunter) is absent.
In the second episode of the season, “Beta Test,” the Dean acts as a subtle narrator. His announcements are key to the unfolding events, explaining, for instance, why Cadet Caleb Mir (Sandro Rosta) is sprinting through the academy, and signaling the episode’s conclusion by reminding students that their day is ending. Colbert’s character also provides updates on offscreen subplots, such as instructing Specialist Krebs to feed a Talaxian Furfly, a story that evolves in the next episode, “Vitus Reflux,” when the Dean amusingly notes the creature’s unexpected beaker-mating antics.
What does the Digital Dean of Students do at Starfleet Academy?
John Medland/Paramount+
The Dean stirs the pot further by initiating an unsanctioned war game simulation between the Academy and Starfleet’s War College during “Vitus Reflux.” This action suggests he may have a human-like autonomy, as his programming doesn’t stop him, hinting at a possible ulterior motive for his own amusement. Yet, amidst the chaos, the Dean ensures the academy remains orderly, kickstarting classes and urging students to stay energized and focused, preparing them to become Starfleet’s finest.
In Season 1, Episode 2, “Beta Test,” he’s a lowkey narrator as his announcement tells us why Cadet Caleb Mir (Sandro Rosta) is suddenly running through the school, and he also signals the episode’s end as he tells students that their day is winding down. Colbert’s character also shares subplots that happen offscreen. In “Beta Test,” he asks Specialist Krebs to feed their Talaxian Furfly, and this story continues in Season 1, Episode 3, “Vitus Reflux,” when the Dean proclaims that the creature is mating with a beaker. We never see Specialist Krebs or the Talaxian Furfly, but we’re given enough details that let us in on the unseen drama.
The Dean actually contributes to the chaos when he initiates an unauthorized simulation of a war game between the Academy and Starfleet’s War College, allowing them to duke it out during “Vitus Reflux.” This hints at there being a human aspect to him since his programming doesn’t refuse this request, which could mean that he’s doing it for his own entertainment. Besides the drama, the Dean keeps the Academy running smoothly as he signals the start of class and reminds students to stay well-caffeinated so that they can become the best crew members Starfleet has ever seen.
