Star Trek is back, but in a way you’ll not have seen before, as the latest entry from the beloved franchise is Starfleet Academy, working as something of a blank canvas, ushering in the next generation on the screen, and hopefully, in viewers. To mark the launch of the series we had the pleasure in speaking to several of the cast members – featuring various new faces, and some familiar, while also chatting to those bringing this story to life behind the scenes. We discuss themes of hope and optimism, while also speaking about the casting of stars Paul Giamatti and Holly Hunter, as well as funny anecdotes from the make-up chair, and just what it is about this world that fans can’t seem to get enough of.
We spoke with legends Robert Picardo, Tig Notaro and Gina Yashere, followed by creators Alex Kurtzman & Noga Landau. We then speak to the new faces that breathe new life into this world, starting with Sandro Rosta, Kerrice Brooks & George Hawkins, before finishing up with a chat with Bella Shepard, Zoë Steiner & Karim Diané. You can watch all interviews in their entirety below.
Robert Picardo Tig Notaro, Gina Yashere
Alex Kurtzman & Noga Landau
Sandro Rosta, Kerrice Brooks & George Hawkins
Bella Shepard, Zoë Steiner & Karim Diané
Plot
Set in the 32nd century, following the events of Star Trek: Discovery, Star Trek: Starfleet Academy follows the first new class of Starfleet cadets in over a century as they come of age, forge friendships, test their ideals, and train to become the next generation of Starfleet officers. As the Federation rebuilds after a galaxy-altering catastrophe, hope, optimism, and discovery return — led by a young group of cadets learning what it truly means to wear the uniform. Cadets are trained aboard the USS Athena, a starship that docks at the Starfleet Academy campus in San Francisco but can also be deployed into deep space, blending classic Star Trek ideals with high-stakes, far-future storytelling.
Star Trek: Starfleet Academy premieres on Paramount+ on January 15, 2026, launching with its first two episodes. The remaining eight episodes will roll out weekly through March 12, 2026.
