Now let’s take a look at one of the more controversial characters Star Trek produced. Played by Wil Wheaton, Wesley Crusher looks innocent enough. But that was kind of the problem. Fans were not impressed with the way the boy was able to save the day on so many occasions despite struggling to get into the Starfleet Academy. His storylines always felt too contrived and fans were not into it.
Still, Wheaton’s run on the show as Wesley Crusher lasted from 1987 to 1991, spanning the first four seasons of “The Next Generation.” Since leaving the show, Wheaton has fared just fine, with no residual issues from the distaste that lingered around his character. Wheaton has appeared in various TV shows, including “Criminal Minds” and “The Big Bang Theory.” He also has a hilarious cameo, playing himself in “Family Guy.”
Robert Duncan McNeill as Lieutenant Tom Paris
Robert Duncan McNeill is a Star Trek veteran, having taken on a couple of different roles while also directing several episodes. His most regular appearance on the show was as Lieutenant Tom Paris, in "Star Trek: Voyager." However, you can also spot him in an episode of "Star Trek: The Next Generation."
McNeill did take on acting roles outside of Star Trek (including an appearance as himself in the documentary, "Trekkies") but his passion is most definitely with directing. He has an impressive CV, having taken the helm of shows like "Dawson’s Creek," "Medium," and "Desperate Housewives." McNeill also produced and directed "Chuck," for NBC.
Sarah Silverman as Rain Robinson
Here is another star you may be surprised to discover was in Star Trek. Sassy, the outspoken comedian, Sarah Silverman, joined "Star Trek: Voyager" back in 1996 for a small role that spanned two episodes. Her character, Rain Robinson, was central to a two-part episode named “Future’s End,” which was full of time-traveling fun.
We probably don’t even need to tell you what Silverman has been up to since (but we will)! The comedy superstar has had her own program, "The Sarah Silverman Show," along with a number of comedy specials and appearances in shows like "Louie" and films like "Wreck-it Ralph."
Rick Worthy as Jannar
With his Star Trek character, Jannar, Ricky Worthy immersed himself in the role for ten episodes and, with his costume and makeup so completely altering his appearance, was also able to take on other characters in later seasons. While it’s tempting to think that Worthy’s combination of talent and dedication to his immersive roles would lead to a lucrative career, it turns out the reality was far from it.
Worthy wasn’t able to build the recognition factor that’s so helpful in casting calls and auditions. He shared his backstory in "That Guy… Who Was in That Thing," a fascinating documentary released back in 2012. While he had a cushy role on "The Magicians," Worthy admitted his dedication to character acting nearly left him broke and homeless!
Jonathan Frakes as William T. Riker
Jonathan Frakes holds the honor of having appeared in not one but four different Star Trek series: "The Next Generation," "Deep Space Nine," "Voyager," and "Enterprise." Only one other regular cast member can make the same claim (do you remember who?) Frakes is no day-tripper to the world of sci-fi, and his role in Star Trek was more than just a job to him.
From an early age, Frakes was into the sci-fi scene, working at conventions and appearing as various costumed characters. In addition to acting, Frakes also directed many episodes of Star Trek. Since leaving the show, he’s continued his directorial career and also penned a novel titled, "The Abductors: Conspiracy."