George Takei, the beloved actor known for his iconic role as Hikaru Sulu in the Star Trek franchise, has always been a visionary. In a 1996 interview, Takei revealed a bold idea that could have reshaped the Star Trek universe: a Captain Sulu TV series with a young Jean-Luc Picard. This concept, while ultimately unrealized, showcases Takei's creativity and his deep understanding of the Star Trek lore. Let's delve into this intriguing proposal and explore the possibilities it presents.
A Visionary Pitch
Takei's pitch for a Captain Sulu series was not just a passing thought. He envisioned a show set in the late 1990s, where an older Captain Sulu, having ascended to the rank of captain in 2287, commands the USS Excelsior. The series would have featured a young Ensign Picard, who, according to the expanded Star Trek universe, graduated from Starfleet Academy in 2327. Takei's idea was to have Sulu mentor the young Picard, teaching him fencing and perhaps even guiding him through the intricacies of Starfleet command.
The Logistics of the Crossover
The logistics of this crossover are fascinating. While 'Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country' established Sulu's promotion to captain in 2293, the expanded universe lore places his promotion in 2287. This timeline allows for a plausible scenario where Sulu could have been captain of the Excelsior in 2327, when Picard would have been around 22 years old. The idea of an older, experienced captain guiding a young, eager ensign is not only intriguing but also aligns with the themes of mentorship and intergenerational connections that Star Trek often explores.
The Impact of the Series
A Captain Sulu series would have had a significant impact on the Star Trek franchise. It would have provided an opportunity to explore the legacy of Sulu and the Excelsior, a ship that has not been the focus of many stories. Additionally, it would have allowed for the introduction of a young Picard, a character who would later become a central figure in the Next Generation series. The series could have also served as a bridge between the original series and the Next Generation, providing a deeper connection between the two eras.
The Unfulfilled Potential
Unfortunately, the Captain Sulu series never materialized. However, Takei did get to reprise his role as Captain Sulu in the 'Star Trek: Voyager' episode 'Flashback'. In this episode, Tuvok, a Vulcan security officer, experiences memories of an event that never occurred, including a young woman falling off a cliff. Through mind-melds, Tuvok recalls his early assignment on the USS Excelsior, where he served under Captain Sulu. This episode, while not a series, served as a fitting acknowledgment of Sulu's legacy and the extended age of Tuvok.
Conclusion
George Takei's pitch for a Captain Sulu TV series with a young Jean-Luc Picard was a bold and creative idea. It showcases his deep understanding of the Star Trek universe and his desire to explore new narratives. While the series never materialized, the concept remains a fascinating what-if scenario that could have reshaped the franchise. Takei's vision, combined with the rich lore of Star Trek, continues to inspire fans and creators alike, reminding us of the endless possibilities within the Star Trek universe.
