'Star Trek's' Most-Hated Character Finally Gets His Glory in New Series
- - 'Star Trek's' Most-Hated Character Finally Gets His Glory in New Series
Jeff LuceDecember 30, 2025 at 12:03 AM
0
Photo by CBS Photo Archive on Getty Images
For decades, Star Trek: The Next Generation's Wesley Crusher has been the character that split fans in two. And now, the character has a moment that might just prove all those haters out there wrong.
A new clip from the upcoming Starfleet Academy show puts Wesley’s name front and center on the Academy’s wall of honor, a recognition long overdue for TNG’s most debated prodigy. The reaction from longtime Trekkies has been fun, and often a positive cheer after decades of 'Shut up, Wesley' jokes.
View this post on Instagram
Of course, Wesley’s journey didn’t stop in the 24th century of The Next Generation. He also made a playful return in Star Trek: Lower Decks, where Wil Wheaton reprised the role in animated form. In an interview, Wheaton recalled how much fun it was leaning into the humor of the show, making Wesley 'squeakier, sillier, and nerdier' while tying together almost 30 years of canon. The episode even paired Wesley with Mariner at the Academy, Wheaton explained, giving fans a wink to Wheaton’s own Star Trek fan fiction.
Related: 'Star Trek' Star Says Goodbye to Beloved Series & Fans Are Emotional
In the original TNG run Wesley’s brilliance often rubbed audiences the wrong way. Scenes where he seemingly solved complex starship problems effortlessly earned him the 'Mary Sue' label, and fans didn’t hold back in their critiques. Wheaton has been refreshingly open about those experiences, joking that the awkwardly scripted 'genius kid' moments sometimes made him feel like the character was working against him.
Yet over time, perspectives shifted. Watching Wesley grow up on screen and seeing Wheaton’s continued involvement in the franchise (like hosting The Ready Room and appearing in animated and live-action cameos) has helped fans reconnect with the character’s charm. The recent Academy clip now cements the character as a valued part of the Starfleet legacy.
This nod appeals to older and newer fans alike. Many remember groaning at Wesley’s earnestness as kids, while younger viewers may have met him in Lower Decks. Both generations can now share a moment realizing Wesley Crusher was never the problem. He was an important part of the adventure all along.
And for Wheaton, despite being able to pinpoint why he felt people hated the character, seeing this recognition might seem like it brings the character full-circle. From a kid actor under the spotlight to a beloved voice guiding fans through the Star Trek universe, Wesley Crusher’s story has finally shown that it has...lived long and prospered.
🎬SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬
This story was originally published by Parade on Dec 29, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Source: “AOL Entertainment”
