Holly Hunter stars as a long‑lived captain in Star Trek: Starfleet Academy

Holly Hunter stars as Nahla Ake, an exceptionally long‑lived captain who is chancellor of the fleet’s academy, in the new series "Star Trek: Starfleet Academy," which premieres on Paramount+ on Thursday.

The role, the lead in the franchise’s 12th television space opera, marks a rare turn into science fiction for Hunter. Alex Kurtzman, a co‑showrunner of the series, said he imagined Hunter while writing the character and wanted a captain who leads with empathy; the part includes distinctive touches such as flowing robes, barefoot moments, and scenes in which the captain pounds a table and urges cadets toward “Grooowth!”

Hunter, who has won one Oscar and two Emmys and described acting as “like playing the lottery,” said she was drawn to Star Trek’s essential optimism and to playing a character who has lived for more than 400 years. Colleagues including Paul Giamatti and director James L. Brooks praised her intensity, precision and emotional realism.

She is currently shooting a second season of the show and has said she does not yet know what will come after that, and will go where the work takes her.

Key Topics

Culture, Holly Hunter, Starfleet Academy, Star Trek, Paramount+, Alex Kurtzman