The Dax character in “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine,” eventually embodied by Terry Farrell, had distinctive spots that ran from her forehead to her neck. These spots were only added after an initial prosthetic forehead design fell through. “Trek” makeup artist Michael Westmore confessed they were inspired by Janssen’s previous role in “The Perfect Mate.”
Rick Berman and Michael Piller faced difficulties in casting Jadzia Dax, and Janssen’s timely presence near their office led them to consider her for the role. Ultimately, Janssen declined the opportunity because she sought flexibility to pursue feature films concurrently with any television commitments. Janssen explained:
“I wanted some kind of guarantee that I could do feature films on the side. […] And while I felt [‘Deep Space Nine’] was a great opportunity, I felt I would get lazy as an actor if I didn’t keep challenging myself with different parts.”
Farrell was subsequently cast as Dax, and Janssen pursued her movie career, landing roles as Xenia Onatopp in “GoldenEye” and participating in films across various genres with recognized directors such as Clive Barker, Ted Demme, Robert Altman, Woody Allen, and Robert Rodriguez. Additionally, her filmography includes parts in the “Taken” and “X-Men” franchises.
Despite not joining the “Deep Space Nine” cast, Janssen’s film career flourished nonetheless.
FAQs About Famke Janssen and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine
- Who played the role of Jadzia Dax in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine?
- Terry Farrell was the actress who ultimately played the role of Jadzia Dax in “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine”.
- What role did Famke Janssen play in James Bond’s “GoldenEye”?
- Famke Janssen played the character Xenia Onatopp in “GoldenEye”.
- Has Famke Janssen worked with any notable directors in her film career?
- Yes, Famke Janssen has worked with several notable directors including Clive Barker, Ted Demme, Robert Altman, Woody Allen, and Robert Rodriguez.
- Did Famke Janssen appear in any superhero films?
- Yes, she appeared in three “X-Men” movies, portraying the character Jean Grey/Phoenix.
- Why did Famke Janssen turn down the role of Jadzia Dax?
- Famke Janssen turned down the role to ensure she could simultaneously pursue her feature film career and avoid becoming complacent in her acting challenges.
Conclusion
Famke Janssen’s decision to decline the part of Jadzia Dax in “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine” appears to have been a strategic move for her career. By maintaining her flexibility to take on various roles in feature films, she not only crafted a diverse body of work but also managed to work with some of the film industry’s most distinguished filmmakers. This choice not only shaped her career trajectory but arguably also broadened her artistic range and appeal within the acting community.