Jerry O’Connell Discusses Why Star Trek: Lower Decks Outshines the Starship Enterprise

For the past five seasons, Jerry O’Connell has lent his voice to the character of Commander Jack Ransom in Star Trek: Lower Decks. He is now gearing up for his final journey aboard the USS Cerritos, as the series, created by Mike McMahan, comes to a conclusion on Paramount+. Fans can catch the series finale of Star Trek: Lower Decks on Thursday, December 19.

Initially tasked with the oversight of Lieutenant Beckett Mariner (voiced by Tawny Newsome), Commander Ransom has evolved alongside her as she embraced her promotion and increased responsibilities. Throughout season 5, Ransom has engaged with Lieutenant Brad Boimler (Jack Quaid) while employing some unconventional methods as First Officer to unify the lower deck crew as competent Starfleet Officers.

Recently, ScreenRant had an insightful conversation with O’Connell, during which he expressed his profound pride in his role on Star Trek: Lower Decks. He shared his favorite moments as Commander Ransom and discussed the unique dynamic of being married to fellow Starfleet First Officer, Rebecca Romijn, who stars in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. Additionally, he contemplated Ransom’s potential ascent to Captain following the show’s conclusion.

Why Star Trek: Lower Decks Represents ‘The Cool Kids’ Of Starfleet

“We’re Almost Like The Cool Kids Of Starfleet.”

ScreenRant: At the Lower Decks premiere in Newport Beach, was that your first experience with a packed audience viewing the show?

Jerry O’Connell: It was a blast! We did a convention in Chicago and attended Comic-Con, but nothing beats watching it with fans. I frequently attend cons with my wife, [Rebecca Romijn]. I feel like Lower Decks is such a distinctive part of the Star Trek universe—it’s as if we’re the cool kids of Starfleet. I can’t quite describe it, but I feel a sense of “Starfleet street cred”being part of this show.

Recently at a holiday party, while my wife was recognized a lot, one fan came up to me and expressed their feelings about Lower Decks, saying it was the best and they were sad to see it end. That’s what makes being part of Lower Decks so special—I feel proud to be involved with such a cool project.

It’s as if Strange New Worlds and the Enterprise are like the mall, while we’re the cool speakeasy everyone wants to discover.

Jerry O’Connell: Also, I’m really looking forward to Starfleet Academy. There’s just something extraordinarily unique about being involved with Lower Decks, largely thanks to Mike McMahan and our wonderful cast. As season 5 wraps up, I can’t feel too sad; this experience is not just about pride, but also about feeling genuinely cool—and that’s what we all strive for in life.

Highlights of Commander Jack Ransom

“Double-Fisted Kirk Punch!”

Ransom smirking in Star Trek: Lower Decks Season 5 Ep 8 — Image via Paramount+

I’d love to discuss Commander Ransom further as he has developed into a multidimensional character. In the episode “Upper Decks,”which shifts focus to the bridge crew, we witness that thrilling events unfold across the Cerritos, showcasing its reputation as the most exhilarating ship in Starfleet.

Jerry O’Connell: I agree! It’s refreshing to have storylines centered around the bridge, which is where the core action takes place. While Lower Decks focuses on the lower tiers, the bridge is where decisions are made and leadership prevails—something fans have long wanted to see explored.

Among the many significant moments, I fondly remember Ransom transforming into a psychic god due to bizarre energies, embodying a classic Star Trek villain.

Jerry O’Connell: A standout moment for me was when Commander Ransom fought an alien adversary and voiced the line “Double-fisted Kirk punch.”That direction from Mike McMahan, delivered during recording, truly captured the comedic essence of Lower Decks. It was a distinct moment, an indication that the show was unlike any other—strikingly original and unique.

I’d say my favorite episode is the finale, encapsulating everything important about being part of Star Trek for a high-ranking officer.

Future Prospects for Commander Ransom

Jerry Aspires to Outrank His Wife, Rebecca Romijn…

Ransom and Freeman in Star Trek Lower Decks

As the series finale approaches, the possibility of Commander Ransom ascending to Captain Ransom arises. Would he prefer to command the Cerritos or have his own ship?

Jerry O’Connell: That’s a fantastic question! I’m all about the Cerritos. While I live with someone devoted to the Enterprise, which is akin to Starfleet’s Mall of America, I’ll always have a soft spot for the Cerritos. I love our ship and crew—it’s truly the best in Starfleet. If a crossover ever happens and Ransom sits with Una and Pike on the Enterprise, it’d be fun, but my heart lies with the Cerritos.

Moreover, it’d be hilarious to outrank my wife in the Star Trek universe. In real life, we’re currently equalized as both First Officers in Starfleet. If there’s a chance for me to become a Captain, it would be incredible, especially since I share my life with Una Chin-Riley.

Overview of Star Trek: Lower Decks Season 5

In the fifth season of Star Trek: Lower Decks, the crew aboard the USS Cerritos faces the task of closing “space potholes” —subspace rifts wreaking havoc across the Alpha Quadrant. Although this duty would seem simple for Junior Officers Mariner, Boimler, Tendi, and Rutherford, they contend with an Orion war, angry Klingons, diplomatic disasters, murder mysteries, and their own career aspirations. This season celebrates the underdog crew who are perilously close to promotion into new Starfleet roles, leaving their lower deck status behind.