Warning: SPOILERS for the finale of Star Trek: Lower Decks – “The New Next Generation”
Star Trek: Lower Decks Concludes with “The New Next Generation”
Star Trek: Lower Decks creator Mike McMahan has triumphantly concluded the animated series on Paramount+ after five thrilling seasons. This finale not only wraps up the adventures of the USS Cerritos but also sets the stage for exciting future escapades featuring Lt. Beckett Mariner (Tawny Newsome) and her crew.
In the series finale, aptly titled “The New Next Generation,”the USS Cerritos rises to the challenge as the sole Starfleet vessel capable of saving the universe. As the crew faces off against Klingons, they manage to stabilize a precarious quantum rift in reality. Ultimately, the Cerritos is ushered into a new era with an updated command structure where Mariner and Lt. Brad Boimler (Jack Quaid) take on the roles of co-First Officers under Captain Jack Ransom (Jerry O’Connell).
ScreenRant recently engaged in a conversation with McMahan, delving into the complexities of concluding this installment of Star Trek: Lower Decks, how he persuaded Jolene Blalock to reprise her iconic role as T’Pol after a 19-year hiatus, and the steps fans can take to advocate for more adventures in this animated series.
Insights from Mike McMahan on Crafting the Series Finale
“I Think It’s The Best Series. What Do You Think Of That?”
ScreenRant: Mike, the finale was incredible. Congratulations on achieving such a fantastic season! It almost seems like every season I tell you, “This was the best one,”and yet I believe this truly is the best.
Mike McMahan: I consider it the best series! What are your thoughts? We’ve crafted big action scenes, comedic moments, and episodes featuring legacy characters. However, if you isolate just one episode, like “The Inner Fight,”it doesn’t capture the entirety of what Lower Decks represents. The show’s essence lies in the blend of all these elements and surprises. This final season captures that spirit again, and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished.
The writing process for the finale was intriguing. The title “The New Next Generation”resonated with the legacy of TNG and DS9.
Mike McMahan: The title signifies that if we were to continue Lower Decks, fans could expect something fresh while retaining the beloved elements. Just like TNG and DS9, our version would explore the multiverse with Mariner and Boimler taking on new roles. In this new setup, Mariner and Boimler serve as First Officers, and Tendi and T’Lyn contribute as Science Officers, while Ransom takes on the Captaincy. There are many stories I’d love to share about these dynamics—funny, dramatic, and engaging—though I’m unsure if I’ll have that chance. It was essential to create an experience that celebrates everything fans love about Lower Decks, culminating in an enjoyable farewell.
I found it clever how episodes 508 and 509 shifted focus away from the Warp Core Five, only to bring everything back together for the grand finale—resulting in the ultimate saving of the universe.
Mike McMahan: Over time, viewers will recognize that episode 509 is significantly focused on Mariner and Boimler as well. While we step away from Tendi, Rutherford, and T’Lyn, this episode simultaneously resolves Boimler’s arc from the end of season one. It illustrates how his friendship with Mariner not only helps restore his self-esteem but also becomes vital for saving existence itself. The finale needed to celebrate both the characters and the ship itself, packed with classic Star Trek elements—Klingons, mysteries, and sci-fi phenomena—culminating in heartwarming moments, including Mariner’s reflective speech that encapsulates our journey. That moment was the last part I wrote—it perfectly captured our appreciation for creating this show.
Furthermore, Mariner’s antics, including setting her bed on fire, provided humor and authenticity.
Mike McMahan: (laughs) Yes, and she indeed set her bed on fire!
Creating Momentous Crossovers with Tawny Newsome & Jack Quaid
Mariner & Boimler Lead in the Crossovers of Strange New Worlds & Lower Decks
Image via Paramount+
The trio of you—Tawny, Jack, and yourself—played pivotal roles in orchestrating some of the most significant Star Trek crossovers in recent history, blending live-action and animation.
Mike McMahan: I have immense admiration for the Strange New Worlds crossover; one of my writers, Kathryn Lyn, co-wrote it with me. The enthusiasm of Jonathan Frakes and the team at Strange New Worlds for Lower Decks empowered us to be deeply involved in the entire process, even in the editing phase. Ultimately, it’s Tawny and Jack who shine in that crossover. We set the framework, but they took it to new heights.
The Return of Jolene Blalock as T’Pol
Jolene’s First Appearance as T’Pol in 19 Years
Image via Paramount+
Seeing T’Pol in the series was a dream come true! How did you manage to bring Jolene back, and do you think she might be open to future Star Trek projects?
Mike McMahan: I didn’t propose future Star Trek projects to her, as I was just thrilled she agreed to join Lower Decks after so long. We had heard whispers that she was distancing herself from Star Trek, focusing on family and charity work. However, I reached out with a note and the script, and she expressed her enthusiasm for the project. She quickly adapted back into the role, showcasing uncanny skill in emulating T’Pol’s essence. Additionally, she genuinely enjoyed collaborating with Scott Bakula and appreciated the supportive environment.
It was indeed remarkable—her portrayal felt both nostalgic and fresh.
Mike McMahan: Working with Gabrielle Ruiz as T’Lyn helped me appreciate Jolene’s talent, especially in directing her to reconnect with the character.
Star Trek: Lower Decks’ Finale Features Captain Ransom’s Promotion
Celebrating Captain Ransom’s Rise to Command
The end of the series showcased Ransom’s promotion to Captain of the Cerritos, a commendable narrative twist that echoes the passing of the torch moment in Star Trek: The Next Generation.
Mike McMahan: (laughs) Absolutely! I believe Jerry is undoubtedly proud of his achievement. We initially crafted Ransom’s character to be despised, but Jerry’s charm won over the audience, demonstrating his growth into a commendable officer. Having him become captain felt like a fitting conclusion to that journey, promising ongoing amusing tensions between him, Mariner, and Boimler.
Engaging Fans to Advocate for More Lower Decks
Show Your Love for Lower Decks – Constructively!
Image via Paramount+
Fans are eager for more content. Can the series find a new home on a different streaming platform? What steps can we take to facilitate this?
Mike McMahan: I recommend being vocal and enthusiastic, but maintaining respect is crucial. It’s vital to avoid attacking networks or those involved in the cancellation. Positive energy fosters the kind of enthusiasm that networks appreciate. As we celebrate this finale, expressing joy for the series while advocating for more episodes is key. I’ll continuously work tirelessly behind the scenes to navigate options and identify the right moment to push for more Lower Decks.
Exploring Star Trek: Lower Decks Season 5
The storyline of Star Trek: Lower Decks season 5 features an engaging narrative where the crew of the USS Cerritos confronts the chaos of closing “space potholes”—subspace rifts disrupting the Alpha Quadrant. While navigating these challenges, Junior Officers Mariner, Boimler, Tendi, and Rutherford also face a range of adversities, including an Orion war and their own ambitions within Starfleet. This season serves as a celebration of an underdog crew on the brink of promotion into prestigious roles.
- Garrett Wang
- Jerry O’Connell
- Lewis talent
- Mary Chieffo
- Gabrielle Ruiz
- Star Trek: Lower Decks Season 5 Cast Junket
- Star Trek: Lower Decks Cast At NYCC
All episodes of Star Trek: Lower Decks are currently available for streaming on Paramount+.
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