Emotional Tribute in "What Is Starfleet?" Episode of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds
Star Trek: Strange New Worlds continues to captivate audiences with its innovative storytelling and heartfelt moments. The seventh episode of Season 3, titled "What Is Starfleet?", presents a unique documentary-style exploration of the USS Enterprise crew, capturing both their triumphs and struggles. Directed by Sharon Lewis and penned by Kathryn Lyn and Alan B. McElroy, this episode honors the late partner of actress Melissa Navia, who portrays Lieutenant Erica Ortegas.
A Documentary Perspective
The episode revolves around Beto Ortegas, the younger brother of Lt. Erica, who has been given special access to film a documentary aboard the Enterprise. Through Beto’s eyes, viewers get a glimpse into the darker aspects of Starfleet, as he wrestles with his anger regarding Erica’s decision to join. The documentary format provides an intimate look at the crew’s experiences, particularly after the traumatic events in the season’s premiere involving the Gorn.
A Heartfelt Tribute
One particularly touching moment involves a hidden Easter egg: a vinyl album, "Irish Cowboy Country Blues", by Sean Fhéile, featured prominently in Erica’s quarters. This album holds special significance as it belonged to Brian Bannon, Melissa Navia’s late partner, who tragically passed away in December 2021. The revelation of this detail, noted by renowned Star Trek expert Jörg Hillebrand, offers a deep emotional layer, serving as a poignant reminder of Navia’s personal loss and triumph over grief.
"This is such a sweet tribute!" Hillebrand shared, noting the album’s importance on Bluesky.
Bannon’s connection to the show also highlights the supportive environment that Navia found within the cast and crew during her time of mourning.
Previous Tributes and Continuing Themes
This is not the first instance of the series honoring Bannon. In Season 2, Episode 6, "Lost in Translation," the episode features Bannon’s Nebula, named after him. The narrative explores themes of grief and redemption as Ensign Nyota Uhura confronts her own loss while uncovering the consequences of Starfleet’s actions.
Both episodes intertwine grief with the narratives of their characters—underscoring that while the stories of Star Trek often feature interstellar adventures, they also delve into human emotions and struggles.
Weitering into Grief
In "What is Starfleet?", Ortegas confesses to Beto’s cameras that joining Starfleet was her way of escaping the reality of a dying mother. This admission not only provides depth to her character but also reflects the complexities of facing personal demons. After a harrowing encounter with the Gorn, she emerges physically intact but grappling with emotional trauma.
Erica’s journey symbolizes a broader theme of resilience, mirroring Navia’s own challenge of navigating her loss while continuing to portray a character in the midst of her own struggles.
Conclusion
"What Is Starfleet?" serves as an emotional cornerstone in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, blending fiction with real-life experiences of loss. The episode does more than entertain; it connects audiences with the complexities of grief, memory, and the bonds that tie us to loved ones—even beyond their physical presence.
As Star Trek explores these elements, it reminds viewers of the power of storytelling to heal and honor those we have lost. With a narrative deeply entwined with both the fictional and the personal, Strange New Worlds continues to prove its relevance in today’s storytelling landscape, leaving fans eager for what lies ahead in Season 3.
