When Michelle Forbes declined to reprise her role as Ro Laren for “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine” (DS9), she inadvertently reshaped the show’s direction. Having portrayed the Bajoran Ensign on “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” Forbes was poised to transition smoothly into DS9, set on the Bajoran homeworld. Piller’s comments indicated that her character was fundamental to DS9’s inception:
“Michelle Forbes is a wonderful actress, and her character of Ensign Ro created the entire canvas for this new series. It had always been assumed that she would be one of the people spun off and moved over to ‘DS9,’ but she wanted to be a feature actress.”
Following her departure to pursue film roles, such as those in “Kalifornia” and “Swimming with Sharks,” the creative team introduced a pivotal change. Commanding officer Sisko received a Bajoran first officer, Kira Nerys, who was not a member of Starfleet. The decision amplified the potential for conflict, with Piller explaining:
“I found there was a great deal more conflict in having the Bajoran not be Starfleet. Immediately you have different priorities and agendas, and the two people immediately have a conflict with each other the moment they step onto the station. The one between Sisko and Ro would have been a much different one, because ultimately she’s Starfleet and has to do what the boss says. Kira Nerys could do things that are not appropriate Starfleet behavior.”
In the absence of Ro Laren, much of her intended dialogue and characteristics were bestowed upon Kira, who emerged as an integral character in DS9.
FAQ Section
- Who is Michelle Forbes?
Michelle Forbes is an actress known for her role as Ensign Ro Laren on “Star Trek: The Next Generation” and for her ambitions to work in feature films. - What character did she play in the Star Trek universe?
Michelle Forbes played Ensign Ro Laren, a Bajoran Starfleet officer in “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” - Why did Forbes not join Star Trek DS9?
Forbes was not interested in continuing television work and aspired to act in feature films, leading to her decision not to join the cast of “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.” - How did Forbes’ decision affect Star Trek DS9?
Her decision led to the creation of the character Kira Nerys, a non-Starfleet Bajoran, who added a new level of conflict to the series by not being bound by Starfleet regulations, unlike Ro Laren would have been.
Conclusion
Michelle Forbes’ choice to pursue a film career led to unintended yet significant creative changes in “Star Trek: DS9.” The initial plans for her character Ro Laren to transition into the new series were scrapped, resulting in the creation of Kira Nerys, who became a cornerstone of DS9. This shift highlights the impact an actor’s career decisions can have on the narrative and character development of a television series.