White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller has made headlines for his unexpected appeal to revive the Star Trek franchise. On March 15, 2024, he shared a video clip from the new series, Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, on social media, suggesting that the future of the franchise could be secured by reconciling with William Shatner, the iconic actor who portrayed Captain James T. Kirk. Miller stated, “Tragic. But it’s not too late for @paramountplus to save the franchise. Step 1: Reconcile with @WilliamShatner and give him total creative control.”
Shatner, now 94 years old, has had a storied career in the Star Trek universe, encompassing the original series, Star Trek: The Animated Series, and seven feature films. His significance in the franchise cannot be overstated, making Miller’s call both surprising and thought-provoking for fans and industry observers alike.
The latest series, which premiered on the Paramount+ streaming service on the same day, features Holly Hunter as Captain Nahla Ake of the USS Athena. The Star Trek franchise has historically championed progressive values, showcasing themes of equality and social justice, a legacy established by creator Gene Roddenberry. One of the series’ most memorable moments remains the first interracial kiss on television, featuring Shatner’s Kirk and Nichelle Nichols’s Uhura in 1968.
Political figures have weighed in on Miller’s remarks. California Governor Gavin Newsom took the opportunity to mock Miller, who has been a key architect of the Trump administration’s immigration policies. Newsom quipped, “Stephen Miller saw an alien on the bridge and started drafting an executive order.”
The broader context of Miller’s comments reflects ongoing tensions between entertainment and political influence. David Ellison, the owner of Paramount and a billionaire linked to the Trump administration, has faced criticism for his relationship with former President Donald Trump. Following the merger of his company, Skydance Media, with Paramount last July, Ellison’s actions have raised eyebrows, particularly after Paramount reportedly paid Trump $16 million to settle a lawsuit.
Since the merger, Ellison appointed Bari Weiss as editor-in-chief of CBS, leading to significant changes in the network’s editorial direction. Critics, including actor George Clooney, have voiced concerns about Weiss’s influence, suggesting that she is undermining the integrity of CBS News. Clooney, who portrayed renowned CBS journalist Edward R. Murrow, remarked, “Bari Weiss is dismantling CBS News as we speak.”
The Trump administration has a history of attempting to sway creative decisions within Paramount. Reports indicate that Trump himself encouraged Ellison to produce a fourth film in the Rush Hour franchise, further blurring the lines between politics and entertainment.
As the Star Trek franchise navigates its future, the intersection of cultural commentary and political influence remains a focal point for both fans and industry professionals. Miller’s call for Shatner’s involvement may resonate with audiences, but it also highlights the complex dynamics at play within Hollywood today.
