JANUARY 11, 2021 - Over the weekend, the Star Trek franchise was honored with the Legacy Award at the inaugural Critics Choice Super Awards. Star Trek has been a leader in pushing the boundaries of television and film, promoting diversity and engaging audiences for more than 50 years. The Legacy Award is meant to acknowledge "the cultural impact [Star Trek] has had across multiple decades while continuing to appeal to and grow its loyal fanbase with new stories and characters."

Star Trek actors Sir Patrick Stewart and Sonequa Martin-Green accepted the award on behalf of the franchise in a pre-recorded message to the audience. Martin-Green began the acceptance speech, saying, “On behalf of my Star Trek: Discovery family and the many extraordinary television series and films that inhabit the Star Trek universe, I would like to thank the Critics Choice Association for honoring all of us – and most importantly Gene Roddenberry’s timeless vision – with your first-ever Legacy Award.” Martin-Green went on to discuss the global impact of Star Trek, a franchise which she believes has always looked forward toward a brighter future for humanity.

Stewart, for his part, took a moment to reflect on the concept of inclusivity in Star Trek, noting that he (an older white man) and Martin-Green (a younger, black woman) may appear to be quite different from one other, but they, in fact, represent the “heart” of the franchise and its commitment to diversity and acceptance of those from all walks of life.

If you missed Sunday’s broadcast of the Super Awards, not to worry. The ceremony is available to stream in full on the CWTV app or at cwtv.com.