TOP FIVE FRIDAY: STAR TREK Actors Who Directed STAR TREK

When it comes to the Star Trek universe, the talent both in front of and behind the camera is nothing short of stellar. While many actors have made their mark portraying iconic characters, some have ventured into the director’s chair, bringing a unique perspective to the beloved series. Here’s a countdown of the top five Star Trek actors who directed episodes of Star Trek shows.

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5. Gates McFadden

Known for her role as Dr. Beverly Crusher on Star Trek: The Next Generation, Gates McFadden brought her deep understanding of the characters and the world they inhabit when she directed the episode "Genesis." This episode saw the crew of the Enterprise undergoing bizarre transformations, and McFadden's direction skillfully balanced the episode's eerie atmosphere with moments of genuine suspense. McFadden’s eye for detail and ability to draw strong performances from her fellow cast members made "Genesis" a standout episode.

4. LeVar Burton

LeVar Burton, who played the beloved Geordi La Forge, has a long-standing legacy both as an actor and a director in the Star Trek universe. Burton directed numerous episodes across multiple series, including The Next Generation, Deep Space Nine, Voyager and Enterprise. His directorial effort with the "TNG" episode "The Pegasus" showcased his ability to handle complex storytelling and character development. Burton’s episodes often explored moral and ethical dilemmas, reflecting the essence of Star Trek's storytelling tradition.

3. Robert Duncan McNeill

Robert Duncan McNeill, who brought Tom Paris to life on Star Trek: Voyager, seamlessly transitioned to the director's chair, becoming one of the most dynamic Star Trek directors. His work on episodes such as "Body and Soul" and "Someone to Watch Over Me" highlighted his knack for blending humor with emotional depth. McNeill’s episodes often explored character relationships and personal growth, adding layers to the narrative that resonated with fans.

2. Roxann Dawson

Roxann Dawson, known for her role as B'Elanna Torres on Star Trek: Voyager, has made a significant impact as a director. Her episodes, like "Workforce" and "The Andorian Incident," are noted for their strong visual style and compelling storytelling. Dawson’s direction often emphasized character-driven plots and emotional arcs, bringing a fresh perspective to the series. Her ability to navigate complex narratives and deliver visually stunning episodes has cemented her as a top-tier director in the Star Trek franchise.

1. Jonathan Frakes

At the top of our list is Jonathan Frakes, the man who not only played the iconic Commander William Riker but also directed some of the most memorable episodes across multiple Star Trek series. Frakes’ directorial debut with the "TNG" episode "The Offspring" showcased his talent for handling emotionally charged stories. He went on to direct episodes of Deep Space Nine, Voyager, Discovery and Picard, as well as the feature films Star Trek: First Contact and Star Trek: Insurrection. Frakes’ direction is characterized by its dynamic pacing, strong character focus, and an inherent understanding of what makes Star Trek resonate with audiences.