The highly anticipated Paramount+ series, Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, was a central topic at New York Comic Con 2025, where Collider's Perri Nemiroff sat down with showrunners Alex Kurtzman and Noga Landau, alongside a star-studded cast including Academy Award winner Holly Hunter, Paul Giamatti, and emerging talents. Set to premiere in January 2026, the series continues the legacy of Star Trek: Discovery in the 32nd century, offering a fresh perspective on the iconic franchise by focusing on a new generation of Starfleet Academy cadets.

The new series promises a unique blend of classic Star Trek space-traveling adventures with elements of a high school comedy, exploring themes of friendship, rivalry, and romance amidst a mysterious threat to the Federation. Created by Gaia Violo and overseen by executive producers Alex Kurtzman and Noga Landau, Starfleet Academy aims to honor the rich history of Star Trek while adapting to contemporary storytelling, ensuring the universe of the USS Enterprise continues to thrive in popular culture.

A significant focus of the discussion at NYCC 2025 was the collaborative dynamic between co-showrunners Alex Kurtzman and Noga Landau. Kurtzman, known for his extensive involvement in the Star Trek franchise, expressed his preference for working with partners, highlighting Landau's profound sense of responsibility and her ability to complement his strengths. He quickly recognized her as the ideal partner, noting her deep understanding that beneath the explosions and special effects, Star Trek's core lies in small, intimate, and emotional stories. Landau, a lifelong Star Trek fan whose passion was reignited by Kurtzman's 2009 film, echoed this sentiment, describing their connection as instant and finding in him an "artistic soulmate." Her dream of making Starfleet Academy was amplified by the opportunity to work alongside someone whose approach to storytelling she deeply admired.

The veteran actors, Holly Hunter and Paul Giamatti, also shared insights into their on-set chemistry. Hunter lauded Giamatti's unwavering devotion and meticulous preparation, finding his presence as both a "nemesis" and "collaborator" to be incredibly invigorating. She emphasized how his commitment pushed her to be at the "top of her freaking game," describing him as one of the greatest actors she has ever worked with due to the richness and texture he brings to his roles. Giamatti, in turn, credited Hunter's generous and "open door" approach, which allowed him the freedom and support to explore his character fully. He humorously recalled Hunter's innocent question during an early table reading, asking if "being the captain" was "a big deal," underscoring her fresh and playful approach to the iconic Star Trek universe.

The discussion also delved into the experiences of the younger cast members as they navigated the immense pressure and excitement of joining such an iconic franchise. George Hawkins expressed gratitude for the ensemble, finding strength and reassurance in their collective journey. Karim Diané, who portrays a Klingon, revealed initial anxieties over prosthetics, makeup, voice transformation, and the legacy of Worf. His confidence soared after a scene with Holly Hunter, who complimented his performance, affirming his belief in his portrayal as a "bombass Klingon."

Sandro Rosta admitted it took time to emotionally settle into the role, often feeling overwhelmed by the scale of the production, especially as a newcomer to acting on camera. Seeing the finished pilot episode provided clarity and allowed him to breathe. Bella Shepard conveyed a continuous sense of gratitude and wonder, constantly discovering new facets of her luck and privilege in being part of the series. Zoë Steiner felt a profound sense of belonging through her empathic Betazoid character, whose sensitivity, often not embraced elsewhere, is essential to her role, reflecting Star Trek's overarching theme of inclusivity and the "open door" policy Paul Giamatti spoke of.

Kerrice Brooks articulated a personal philosophy of trusting the "randomness" of life and the reasons for being in certain spaces. She highlighted a scene with Bella Shepard where the idea that "existing is belonging" resonated deeply, reinforcing the show's message that everyone, in their unique way, contributes to the grand tapestry of the Star Trek universe. The collective sentiment among the cast emphasized the infectious charisma, passion, and newness they bring, promising an authentic and inspiring addition to the franchise.