Celia Rose-Gooding Reflects on 'Star Trek: Strange New Worlds' Season 2

Image: Paramount+.

SEPTEMBER 13, 2023 - The universe of Star Trek has always been a captivating realm for fans of science fiction. With its rich history and devoted following, it's no wonder that the latest addition to the franchise, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, has garnered so much attention and praise. In an interview excerpt from Star Trek Explorer #8 shared on Space.com, Celia Rose Gooding, who portrays the iconic Lt. Nyota Uhura in the series, offers insights into her time on the bridge.

Strange New Worlds recently wrapped up its ambitious second season on Paramount+, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the next installment. However, production for Season 3 has hit a roadblock due to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA and WGA Hollywood strikes.

Season 2 of Strange New Worlds was a whirlwind of excitement, featuring time-traveling missions, crossovers with Star Trek: Lower Decks, a historic musical episode, and encounters with the formidable Gorn. It's a testament to the show's creative team and cast that they've managed to keep fans engaged and entertained throughout.

In the interview snippet, Gooding reflects on her journey so far. Interestingly, she reveals that when she initially auditioned for the role, she had no idea it was for Uhura. This lack of awareness, she believes, allowed her to approach the character with a fresh perspective and avoid over-committing to preconceived notions of the iconic character.

Gooding's insights into her character's development shed light on the careful balance required when stepping into the shoes of such a well-known figure. She acknowledges that finding her center amidst the immense fame and fanfare was a challenge. Being a part of a show with a 57-year history and a passionate fan base can be overwhelming, but Gooding found her grounding by disconnecting from the digital world temporarily, focusing solely on her character's perspective.

One intriguing aspect that Gooding highlights is the importance of separating her personal identity from her character's. She emphasizes that Lt. Uhura's world is distinct from her own, and to do justice to the character, she needed to immerse herself fully in Uhura's experiences, unburdened by the external world's perceptions.

The interview also touches on the camaraderie among the show's cast, particularly during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the restrictions and lockdowns, the cast managed to bond and establish genuine connections, translating into a believable on-screen crew dynamic.

For fans of Star Trek and those intrigued by the inner workings of a beloved series, Star Trek Explorer #8 promises to be a treasure trove of insights. Alongside the interview with Celia Rose Gooding, the magazine features chats with actors Ed Speleers and Jonathan Frakes, as well as a behind-the-scenes tour with composer Nami Melamud and production designer David Blass.