We learned back in 2021 that Paramount+ was looking to develop more Star Trek projects as their timeline saw that Discovery would wrap up and there was uncertainty as to how Strange New Worlds would unfold. And Picard was set for just three seasons. So we heard about a few projects being developed, including Starfleet Academy.
In March 2023, Paramount+ gave the green light to the project and with it underway, we knew that Holly Hunter had joined as the academy chancellor with Star Trek: Discovery‘s Tig Notaro, Oded Fehr and Mary Wiseman, along with Star Trek: Voyager‘s Robert Picardo. Previously announced actors include Kerrice Brooks, Bella Shepard, George Hawkins, Karim Diané, Zoë Steiner, Paul Giamatti, and Gina Yashere.
Now, at NYCC, the series has been given a second season renewal early since there’s a lot to go into with special effects and they can’t keep doing big gaps between seasons. Additionally, it was revealed that Tatiana Maslany has joined the first season as a recurring special guest star though nothing about her character was revealed.
Alex Kurtzman and Noga Landau are co-showrunners and will executive produce alongside EPs Gaia Violo, Aaron Baiers, Jenny Lumet, Rod Roddenberry, Trevor Roth, Frank Siracusa, and John Weber. The pilot/premiere episode is written by Gaia Violo.
As said in 2023:
“Admission is now open to Starfleet Academy!,” said co-showrunners and executive producers Kurtzman and Noga Landau in a statement. “Explore the galaxy! Captain your destiny! For the first time in over a century, our campus will be re-opened to admit individuals a minimum of 16 Earth years (or species equivalent) who dream of exceeding their physical, mental and spiritual limits, who value friendship, camaraderie, honor and devotion to a cause greater than themselves. The coursework will be rigorous, the instructors among the brightest lights in their respective fields, and those accepted will live and study side-by-side with the most diverse population of students ever admitted. Today we encourage all who share our dreams, goals and values to join a new generation of visionary cadets as they take their first steps toward creating a bright future for us all. Apply today!Ex Astris, Scientia!”
“We are excited to introduce Star Trek fans to a whole new generation of Starfleet officers in training as they navigate the rigors of the Academy and the brink of adulthood in Star Trek: Starfleet Academy,” said Domenic DiMeglio, Chief Marketing Officer and Head of Data, Paramount Streaming. “Introducing new characters and compelling storylines, this all-new original series will serve as a fantastic addition to the franchise and Paramount+, bringing new generations of viewers and long-term Star Trek fans alike together to enjoy the next chapter in the iconic Star Trek universe.”
“As we continue to explore more of the Star Trek universe, we’re thrilled to bring Star Trek: Starfleet Academy to fans around the world as the next chapter in this expanding franchise,” said David Stapf, president of CBS Studios. “Alex Kurtzman and Noga Landau’s vision is a smart and thrilling take that celebrates the core principles of what Star Trek has always stood for, but through the eyes of the next generation of Starfleet’s leaders.”
Plot Concept: Star Trek: Starfleet Academy will introduce us to a young group of cadets who come together to pursue a common dream of hope and optimism. Under the watchful and demanding eyes of their instructors, they will discover what it takes to become Starfleet officers as they navigate blossoming friendships, explosive rivalries, first loves and a new enemy that threatens both the Academy and the Federation itself.
All cadets, rise for your captain! Academy Award winner Holly Hunter has officially been cast as the captain and chancellor of the upcoming @paramountplus series #StarfleetAcademy 🖖 pic.twitter.com/6ZLA2Kjnxk
— Star Trek on Paramount+ (@StarTrekOnPPlus) May 21, 2024
