In a surprising twist, Stephen Miller, known for his involvement in shaping controversial immigration policies, has turned his attention to… Star Trek?! Yes, you read that right. Miller, the former White House Deputy Chief of Staff, took a break from his usual work to offer some creative suggestions regarding the new Star Trek: Starfleet Academy series. But what's the big deal? Well, let's dive in.
Miller, reposting a clip from a far-right X account, suggested that Paramount+ should 'save the franchise' by giving total creative control to William Shatner, the iconic Captain Kirk. Shatner, who has graced our screens in the original Star Trek series, Star Trek: The Animated Series, and seven Star Trek films, is a beloved figure. But here's where it gets interesting: Shatner is currently 94 years old!
Starfleet Academy premiered on Paramount+ and features Holly Hunter. The original Star Trek series, created by Gene Roddenberry, was known for its progressive values. The show challenged systemic oppression and even featured one of the first interracial kisses on television between Captain Kirk and Uhura back in 1968.
California Governor Gavin Newsom couldn't resist a jab, humorously referencing Miller's past role in the Trump administration's immigration policies. He quipped that Miller 'saw an alien on the bridge and started drafting an executive order.'
But wait, there's more to this story than just a quirky suggestion. The owner of Paramount, David Ellison, has faced criticism for his alleged close ties to Donald Trump. Following a merger between his company, Skydance Media, and Paramount last July, the merger was approved after a $16 million payment to Trump.
Following the merger, Ellison appointed Bari Weiss, founder of The Free Press, as editor-in-chief of CBS News. Weiss has overseen changes to reporting, leading to concerns about the network's impartiality. George Clooney even weighed in, stating that Weiss is 'dismantling CBS News.'
And this is the part most people miss: The Trump administration has previously attempted to influence Paramount's creative decisions. Trump himself reportedly urged Ellison to produce a fourth film in the Rush Hour franchise.
This whole situation raises some fascinating questions: Is Miller's suggestion about Shatner a genuine creative idea, or is there more to it? Does the influence of political figures on creative decisions concern you? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
