The Intriguing Life of Saru Before Joining Star Trek: Discovery

Before the premiere of Star Trek: Discovery, the journey of Ambassador Saru (portrayed by Doug Jones) was already rich and compelling. As the first Kelpien in Starfleet, a species introduced in Star Trek: Discovery, Saru’s character arc was rooted in significant backstory. The series unfolds five years prior to Star Trek: The Original Series, leading to a critical question: why had Kelpiens remained absent from previous entries in the franchise? This is meticulously explored in a companion episode titled Star Trek: Short Treks Season 1, Episode 3, “The Brightest Star.”

Saru’s Journey Before Star Trek: Discovery

Saru’s origins trace back to a humble agrarian community on Kaminar, where the Kelpien species coexists with the technologically advanced Ba’ul. The Ba’ul regularly exploit the Kelpiens during the vahar’ai, a period seen as an omen of death, reinforcing a religious belief that supports the so-called Great Balance—an ideology that merely serves as a guise for control over the Kelpiens. While the Ba’ul’s actions instill fear, Saru’s perspective sets him apart.

Saru’s Courageous Leap from Tradition to Starfleet

In the episode “The Brightest Star,”young Saru dares to question the established norms of his people. Unlike many Kelpiens who accept their bleak fate, Saru hopes for something greater. When he encounters a piece of Ba’ul technology, he ingeniously reverse-engineers it to send a distress signal, thus reaching out into the unknown cosmos. This adventurous act garners the attention of Lieutenant Philippa Georgiou (played by Michelle Yeoh), who extends an invitation for him to join Starfleet.

Leaving behind his father, Aradar (Robert Verlaque), a Kelpien priest, and his sister, Siranna (Hannah Spear), Saru steps into a new chapter of his life, fully aware that he may never return. His journey continues as seen in Season 2, Episode 6, “The Sound of Thunder,”when the USS Discovery traces a signal to Kaminar, leading to an emotional reunion with Siranna.

Saru’s Trailblazing Path in Starfleet

During his tenure in Starfleet, Saru continually breaks barriers, transitioning from cadet to commander and ultimately captain. Following the time jump to the 32nd century in Season 3, he assumes command of the USS Discovery, guiding it during a period of reconstruction for the United Federation of Planets as an ambassador. Saru’s insights and empathy become invaluable, especially as he assists less-advanced civilizations.

From Commander to Ambassador: Saru’s Lasting Impact

One of the standout moments in Ambassador Saru’s life is his romantic development with T’Rina (Tara Rosling), the Vulcan President of Ni’Var, which adds emotional depth to the narrative of the fourth and fifth seasons. While Saru’s accolades in Starfleet are notable, it is his profound empathy and resilience against adversity that defines his legacy.

When he faces his own mortality during the vahar’ai in Chapter 2 of Discovery, his survival reveals the true strength and potential of the Kelpien race. Upon returning to Kaminar, Saru liberates his people from the grips of the Ba’ul—a testament to his bravery and leadership. As a mentor to Lieutenant Sylvia Tilly (Mary Wiseman), he instigates the Academy Mentorship Program, further influencing future generations. Saru’s experiences serve as an inspiring narrative for those grappling with fear and uncertainty, illustrating that limitless potential lies within each individual.

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