Elinor Donahue’s contributions to the “Metamorphosis” episode of Star Trek went beyond her on-screen character. Unbeknownst to many viewers, she provided an off-camera role that was crucial to William Shatner’s performance. Director Ralph Senensky enlisted her help just as she was preparing to leave the set:
“I was there and I don’t quite know why I was there. Maybe I’d shot something in the morning and was released for the rest of the day. It was near lunch time and I’d decided to go have lunch. They started to set up for that scene and I believe it was the director, who said, ‘Would you mind, if you’re going to be here, but you don’t have to be, climbing up on the ladder and reading the lines?’ I said, ‘Oh, I’d love to.’”
For the dialogue with the Companion, Donahue ascended a ladder to provide Shatner with someone to interact with, enhancing the authenticity of his reactions. Her perspective on this unexpected role was positive:
“I thought it was wonderful fun, because there was no pressure on me to perform anything, so to speak. It was just an opportunity to be helpful to a fellow actor, and, yes, [Shatner] was very appreciative. He seemed to smile and be very happy about my being up there.”
Ultimately, Elinor Donahue was one of three individuals to give life to the Companion, with Elizabeth Rogers first voicing the character, followed by Lisabeth Hush after Rogers’ performance did not meet the director’s expectations. Post-Star Trek, Donahue’s career in television thrived continuously.
FAQ: Elinor Donahue in “Metamorphosis”
- Why did Elinor Donahue end up playing the off-camera role of the Companion?
Donahue was present on the set and was approached by the director to provide the lines for William Shatner’s scene partner. - Who ultimately voiced the Companion in the episode?
The final voice for the Companion in the episode was provided by Lisabeth Hush, after Elizabeth Rogers was replaced. - Did Elinor Donahue play the role of the Companion on screen?
No, Elinor Donahue’s role was off-camera to assist Shatner during the scene, and the voiced performance of the Companion was done by others.
Conclusion
Elinor Donahue’s impromptu second role in the “Metamorphosis” episode of Star Trek exemplifies the unforeseen tasks actors may undertake behind the scenes. Donahue provided an essential albeit unseen performance that contributed to the final product of the episode, showcasing the collaborative effort that is often needed in television production. Her flexibility and willingness to help a fellow actor make for an interesting note in Star Trek history, further enriching the series’ storied behind-the-scenes lore.