Star Trek Character Profiles
Next Gen Character Biographies by Suzanne
Star Trek: The Next Generation Characters
Captain Jean-Luc Picard is an exemplary and highly respected Starfleet officer. He is known for his strong moral compass, intelligence, and exceptional leadership skills. Picard is a highly disciplined and thoughtful individual, always striving to find diplomatic solutions and adhering to the principles of the United Federation of Planets.
Physically, Picard is distinguished by his bald head, piercing blue eyes, and a commanding presence. He is often seen wearing the iconic Starfleet uniform, comprising a form-fitting jumpsuit and a communicator badge on the chest.
In terms of personality, Captain Picard is known for his calm and composed demeanor. He possesses a deep intellectual curiosity, often delving into literature, philosophy, and history. He is fluent in several alien languages and is an accomplished diplomat.
As the captain of the USS Enterprise-D (and later the USS Enterprise-E), Picard is responsible for the safety and well-being of his crew. He values the input and expertise of his officers and encourages an open exchange of ideas. Despite his diplomatic approach, Picard can be firm and decisive when necessary, never shying away from taking action to protect his crew or uphold Federation principles.
Throughout the series, Captain Picard becomes a symbol of honor, integrity, and compassion. His catchphrase, “Make it so,” has become iconic in popular culture, representing his commanding authority and willingness to take action.
Commander Will Riker serves as the first officer aboard the USS Enterprise-D, a Galaxy-class starship. He is a skilled and experienced Starfleet officer, known for his confidence, charm, and strategic abilities. Riker is portrayed by actor Jonathan Frakes.
Physically, Riker is tall, with a strong and athletic build. He has a beard, which becomes one of his distinctive features throughout the series. He typically wears the standard Starfleet uniform, consisting of a jumpsuit and communicator badge.
Riker is known for his dynamic and gregarious personality. He possesses a natural charisma and often exudes a sense of humor, which helps to foster camaraderie among the crew. Despite his affable nature, Riker is also a dedicated and disciplined officer, consistently displaying strong leadership qualities.
In terms of his role aboard the Enterprise, Riker serves as Captain Jean-Luc Picard’s second-in-command. He is responsible for overseeing the ship’s operations, coordinating missions, and leading away teams when necessary. Riker is an accomplished tactician and strategist, often relied upon to make crucial decisions during times of crisis.
Riker’s personal life occasionally plays a role in the series, as he navigates romantic relationships and confronts personal challenges. He develops a notable romantic relationship with Counselor Deanna Troi, adding a layer of emotional depth to his character. Later, they’re married.
Throughout the series, Riker’s growth and development are evident as he learns to balance his ambition with loyalty to his crewmates and the ideals of Starfleet. He is a capable and respected officer, known for his quick thinking, resourcefulness, and unwavering dedication to the principles of the United Federation of Planets.
Dr. Beverly Crusher serves as the chief medical officer aboard the USS Enterprise-D, a Galaxy-class starship. She is portrayed by actress Gates McFadden. Crusher is a highly skilled and compassionate physician, dedicated to the well-being of the crew.
Dr. Crusher is known for her professionalism, intelligence, and strong moral compass. She possesses a vast knowledge of medicine and is proficient in various medical techniques and technologies. Crusher’s expertise extends to both human and alien physiology, allowing her to provide medical care to a wide range of species encountered during the Enterprise’s missions.
Physically, Crusher has a warm and caring demeanor. She has long red hair and typically wears the standard Starfleet uniform, with a lab coat when engaged in medical procedures. As a mother, she often balances her responsibilities as a physician with her role as a parent to her son, Wesley Crusher.
Throughout the series, Dr. Crusher showcases her dedication to the health and well-being of the crew. She is often involved in challenging medical situations, whether it’s treating injuries sustained during missions, combating epidemics, or performing complex surgeries. Her leadership in the medical department is well-respected, and she is known for her ability to make difficult decisions under pressure.
Crusher’s character also evolves through her interactions with the crew and her personal relationships. She has a close friendship with Captain Jean-Luc Picard and occasionally engages in a subtle romantic tension with him. Additionally, Crusher’s role as a mother and her desire to balance her career and family life add depth to her character.
Dr. Beverly Crusher brings compassion, expertise, and unwavering commitment to the health and welfare of the Enterprise crew. Her character provides a crucial medical perspective on the show, highlighting the importance of healthcare and ethical decision-making in a futuristic setting.
Lieutenant Commander Data is an android officer serving aboard the USS Enterprise-D, a Galaxy-class starship. He is portrayed by actor Brent Spiner. Data is an extraordinary and complex being, designed to resemble a human physically but possessing exceptional computational abilities and superhuman strength.
Data has a unique appearance, with his distinctively pale skin, golden eyes, and a lack of hair or facial features. He typically wears the standard Starfleet uniform, but occasionally dons a yellow operations uniform as well.
Data is characterized by his pursuit of understanding and his desire to be more human. Despite lacking emotions initially, he develops a strong curiosity about human behavior and strives to comprehend and experience emotions. Throughout the series, Data often explores the meaning of humanity, ethics, and personal identity.
As an android, Data possesses superhuman strength, speed, and intellect. He has the ability to process vast amounts of information instantaneously and is highly skilled in problem-solving, mathematics, and scientific analysis. Data’s lack of emotions and reliance on logic often serve as an asset in his role as an operations officer and second officer on the Enterprise.
Data’s quest to become more human often leads him to seek advice and guidance from his crewmates, particularly his friend and mentor, Captain Jean-Luc Picard. He has a distinctive and measured way of speaking and occasionally struggles with social interactions due to his literal interpretation of language and difficulty grasping nuanced human behavior.
Throughout the series, Data demonstrates growth and evolves in his understanding of human emotions and experiences. He becomes an integral part of the Enterprise crew, valued for his intelligence, dedication, and unwavering loyalty. His character provides fascinating insights into what it means to be human, while also offering a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities presented by artificial intelligence.
Counselor Deanna Troi serves as the ship’s counselor aboard the USS Enterprise-D, a Galaxy-class starship. She is portrayed by actress Marina Sirtis. Troi is a Betazoid, a humanoid species known for their telepathic and empathic abilities.
Troi has a warm and empathetic nature, which enables her to sense and understand the emotions of others. She is compassionate, intuitive, and serves as a valuable advisor to the crew, often providing insights and guidance based on her empathic abilities. Her primary role is to offer emotional support and counsel to the crew, helping them navigate through personal and interpersonal challenges.
Physically, Troi has a distinctive appearance, with long, dark hair and a unique Starfleet uniform variant that includes a low-cut neckline. This outfit signifies her status as a counselor and distinguishes her from other crew members.
Troi’s empathic abilities allow her to perceive emotions and detect subtle nuances that others might miss. This skill is especially useful during diplomatic negotiations and when dealing with alien species. Throughout the series, Troi’s empathic insight proves instrumental in resolving conflicts and ensuring the well-being of the crew.
In addition to her empathic abilities, Troi is a highly trained and capable officer. She holds the rank of lieutenant commander and can also assume command in the absence of other senior officers. Troi’s role on the bridge often involves monitoring the emotional well-being of the crew during missions.
Troi’s character experiences personal growth and development throughout the series, learning to balance her empathic nature with her professional responsibilities. She develops close relationships with her crewmates and forms a particularly strong bond with Commander Will Riker, with whom she shares a complicated romantic relationship. She also has a brief romantic relationship with Lt. Worf.
Counselor Troi’s presence on the Enterprise provides a valuable perspective on the emotional and psychological aspects of space exploration. Her empathic abilities and compassionate nature make her an indispensable member of the crew, offering support and guidance to her fellow officers.
Commander Worf, son of Mogh, is a Klingon officer serving aboard the USS Enterprise-D, a Galaxy-class starship. He is portrayed by actor Michael Dorn. Worf is a complex character, torn between his Klingon heritage and his Starfleet duties.
Physically, Worf has distinct Klingon features, including a furrowed forehead and cranial ridges. He is a tall and muscular figure, displaying a formidable presence. Worf typically wears the standard Starfleet uniform, but occasionally dons Klingon attire when participating in traditional Klingon ceremonies.
As a Klingon, Worf values honor, loyalty, and duty. He embraces Klingon traditions, customs, and martial skills. Throughout the series, Worf’s character arc revolves around the challenges of reconciling his Klingon heritage with his Starfleet upbringing. He often finds himself caught between two worlds, struggling to find his place and maintain his honor within a predominantly human crew.
Worf serves as the Enterprise’s chief of security and tactical officer, responsible for the ship’s defense and the safety of the crew. He possesses extensive combat training and is a skilled warrior. Worf’s expertise in Klingon combat techniques and knowledge of Klingon culture often prove valuable during the ship’s encounters with other Klingons or hostile forces.
Despite his fierce exterior, Worf also displays a sense of loyalty, compassion, and humor. He forms close bonds with several crew members, particularly with Commander William Riker, whom he views as a brother figure. Additionally, Worf engages in a romantic relationship with Counselor Deanna Troi, exploring the challenges of an interspecies love affair.
Throughout the series, Worf faces personal and professional challenges, including his ongoing struggle to navigate Klingon traditions and customs within Starfleet protocols. His journey explores themes of honor, identity, and finding a sense of belonging.
Worf’s character adds depth and diversity to the Enterprise crew, providing unique perspectives on intercultural relations, combat strategies, and the complexities of loyalty. His unwavering commitment to honor and duty make him a formidable and respected member of the Star Trek universe.
Lt. Geordi LaForge serves as the chief engineer aboard the USS Enterprise-D, a Galaxy-class starship. He is portrayed by actor LeVar Burton. LaForge is a highly skilled and talented engineer, known for his expertise in warp propulsion systems and technology.
LaForge has a distinctive appearance, characterized by his visor, a special ocular device he wears over his eyes. The visor allows him to see, compensating for his blindness since birth. Despite his lack of natural sight, LaForge’s other senses, combined with the enhanced vision provided by his visor, make him an exceptional problem-solver and observer of technical details.
As the chief engineer, LaForge is responsible for the ship’s propulsion systems, ensuring the Enterprise’s engines are functioning optimally. He often works closely with other crew members to address any technical issues that arise during their missions. LaForge’s expertise in engineering is crucial to the success of the ship’s operations.
LaForge possesses a determined and optimistic personality. He is highly dedicated to his work, often spending long hours in the engine room, ensuring the ship’s systems are running smoothly. His ability to think creatively and adapt quickly to challenging situations makes him a valuable asset to the crew.
LaForge is also known for his friendships and camaraderie with other crew members. He develops a close bond with Data, the android officer, often collaborating on various technical projects. Additionally, he shares a warm friendship with fellow crewmate Lieutenant Commander Worf and maintains a professional relationship with Captain Jean-Luc Picard.
Throughout the series, LaForge faces personal and professional challenges, demonstrating resilience and determination. He serves as an inspiration to others, overcoming obstacles and showing that disabilities do not define a person’s abilities or potential.
Geordi LaForge’s character brings technical expertise, ingenuity, and a positive outlook to the Enterprise crew. His dedication to his work and his ability to find solutions in difficult situations make him a vital member of the starship’s team.
Wesley Crusher is the son of Dr. Beverly Crusher, the chief medical officer of the USS Enterprise-D, a Galaxy-class starship. He is portrayed by actor Wil Wheaton. Wesley Crusher is a highly intelligent and precocious teenager who often finds himself involved in various adventures aboard the starship.
Physically, Wesley has a youthful appearance and is often seen wearing the standard Starfleet uniform, indicating his status as an acting ensign. He possesses a keen intellect, displaying an aptitude for scientific and technical knowledge far beyond his years.
As a character, Wesley is known for his curiosity, enthusiasm, and passion for learning. He has a deep interest in all aspects of starship operations, often seeking opportunities to engage with the ship’s crew and explore new technologies. Despite his young age, Wesley’s insights and problem-solving abilities occasionally contribute to the resolution of complex situations.
Throughout the series, Wesley’s character experiences personal growth and development. He grapples with the expectations placed upon him as a prodigy and navigates the challenges of finding his identity and purpose aboard the starship. Wesley often seeks guidance from his mother and develops close relationships with various crew members, including Captain Jean-Luc Picard and Lieutenant Commander Geordi LaForge.
Wesley’s character arc involves his journey from an eager teenager to a more mature and independent individual. Over time, he gains valuable life experiences and learns to balance his intellect with emotional intelligence.
It’s worth noting that Wesley Crusher’s character is somewhat divisive among “Star Trek” fans, with some viewers appreciating his contributions to the series while others find his character development inconsistent. Regardless, Wesley’s presence on the USS Enterprise-D adds a youthful perspective and represents the possibilities of growth and learning.
Chief Miles O’Brien serves as the transporter chief and later the chief of operations aboard the USS Enterprise-D, a Galaxy-class starship. He is portrayed by actor Colm Meaney. O’Brien is a skilled and reliable non-commissioned officer who plays a crucial role in the ship’s technical operations.
Physically, O’Brien has a rugged appearance, often seen wearing a distinctive mustard-yellow Starfleet uniform indicating his engineering role. He has a no-nonsense demeanor and a practical, down-to-earth approach to his work. O’Brien is known for his technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and dedication to his responsibilities.
As the transporter chief, O’Brien is responsible for maintaining and operating the ship’s transporter systems, which are used to beam personnel and objects between locations. His role expands to chief of operations, overseeing various engineering and technical aspects of the ship. He becomes a trusted advisor to Captain Jean-Luc Picard and plays a key role in ensuring the ship’s smooth functioning.
O’Brien is depicted as a highly skilled engineer who excels in troubleshooting complex systems and finding innovative solutions. He has a deep knowledge of Federation technology and displays proficiency in various engineering disciplines. O’Brien’s competence and level-headedness make him a dependable and valued member of the crew.
In addition to his technical prowess, O’Brien is known for his affable and approachable nature. He forms close friendships with several crew members, particularly with Commander William Riker and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Beverly Crusher. O’Brien’s relatable personality and working-class background make him a relatable and likable character.
Following his time on “The Next Generation,” O’Brien becomes a main character on “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine,” where his character is further explored, and he takes on more prominent roles.
Lieutenant Tasha Yar serves as the chief security officer aboard the USS Enterprise-D, a Galaxy-class starship. She is portrayed by actress Denise Crosby. Tasha Yar is a strong and capable officer, known for her determination, combat skills, and dedication to the safety of the crew.
Physically, Yar has a fit and athletic build. She typically wears the standard Starfleet uniform, with a security insignia indicating her role. Yar’s appearance often conveys her no-nonsense attitude and readiness for action.
Yar’s background is characterized by a difficult upbringing on a lawless planet, which influences her approach to security matters. She values order and discipline, and her experiences shape her commitment to protecting others. Yar’s determination to prevent violence and protect the crew drives her actions as the chief security officer.
As the chief security officer, Yar is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of the Enterprise and its personnel. She handles security protocols, coordinates response to threats, and oversees the ship’s security team. Yar is skilled in hand-to-hand combat, marksmanship, and tactical strategies.
Yar’s character embodies strength and resilience, and she is often portrayed as a fierce advocate for justice and fairness. Her devotion to duty sometimes leads to clashes with other crew members, particularly with the ship’s android officer, Data, as she struggles with her own emotions and perceptions of his lack of emotions.
Tasha Yar’s character arc is cut short during the first season of “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” as her character is killed off. However, her impact is felt throughout the series, and her sacrifice serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by Starfleet officers.
Guinan, portrayed by actress Whoopi Goldberg, is a mysterious and enigmatic bartender aboard the USS Enterprise-D, a Galaxy-class starship. Guinan is a member of the El-Aurian species, known for their longevity and unique sensory perceptions.
Physically, Guinan has a distinctive appearance, often seen wearing ornate and exotic clothing that reflects her individuality and cultural background. She has a serene and composed demeanor, conveying a deep wisdom and understanding.
As the bartender of Ten Forward, the ship’s social hub, Guinan provides a listening ear and sage advice to the crew members. She possesses a unique ability to sense disruptions in the space-time continuum and has an uncanny intuition, often offering insights that prove invaluable to those seeking guidance.
Guinan’s role goes beyond that of a traditional bartender, as she acts as a confidante and counselor for the crew. Her calm and empathetic nature create a safe space for the crew members to discuss their problems and seek her perspective on matters both personal and professional.
Guinan shares a particularly close relationship with Captain Jean-Luc Picard. Their bond is based on mutual trust and respect, and Guinan often serves as a trusted advisor to him, offering guidance during critical moments.
Throughout the series, Guinan’s background and true nature remain shrouded in mystery. She alludes to her extensive lifespan and experiences, including encounters with powerful entities and civilizations. Her unique abilities and knowledge make her a valuable ally and confidante.
Guinan’s character brings a touch of mystique and depth to the Enterprise crew, representing wisdom, compassion, and a profound understanding of the universe. Her insights and counsel often assist the crew in making important decisions and navigating complex situations.
Dr. Kate Pulaski, portrayed by actress Diana Muldaur, serves as the chief medical officer aboard the USS Enterprise-D for the second season of “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” Pulaski replaces Dr. Beverly Crusher temporarily when the character takes a leave of absence.
Dr. Pulaski is portrayed as a highly competent and intelligent physician. She brings a no-nonsense and assertive attitude to her work, often challenging conventional medical practices and pushing boundaries to find the best solutions for her patients. Unlike Dr. Crusher, Pulaski tends to have a more direct and critical approach to her interactions with others.
Pulaski is known for her expertise in a wide range of medical fields, including diagnostics, surgical procedures, and medical research. She is a dedicated and diligent doctor, committed to the well-being of the crew and always striving to deliver the highest quality of care.
As the chief medical officer, Pulaski is responsible for overseeing the medical department of the Enterprise-D. She works closely with the ship’s personnel to ensure their health and safety, especially during missions and emergencies. Pulaski’s thoroughness and attention to detail make her an asset to the crew in diagnosing and treating various medical conditions.
While Pulaski initially displays some skepticism towards the android officer Data, she eventually develops a mutual respect and understanding with him. Pulaski’s character brings a different dynamic to the medical department and the overall ensemble of the show during her tenure.
It’s important to note that Dr. Pulaski’s character appeared only in the second season of “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” After the season, Dr. Beverly Crusher returns as the chief medical officer for the remainder of the series.
Nurse Alyssa Ogawa, portrayed by actress Patti Yasutake, is a dedicated medical professional serving aboard the USS Enterprise-D, a Galaxy-class starship. Ogawa appears throughout the series, providing essential medical support to the crew.
Nurse Ogawa is portrayed as a compassionate and skilled nurse, known for her expertise in various medical procedures and patient care. She assists the ship’s chief medical officers, initially Dr. Beverly Crusher and later Dr. Katherine Pulaski, in tending to the health and well-being of the crew.
As a nurse, Ogawa is responsible for administering treatments, monitoring patients, and ensuring their comfort during recovery. She displays a calm and reassuring presence, providing emotional support to patients and their families. Ogawa’s character often exemplifies the caring and compassionate nature of medical professionals within the Star Trek universe.
Throughout the series, Nurse Ogawa’s character grows and evolves, taking on more significant responsibilities and showcasing her dedication to her profession. She is a valued member of the medical team and is often seen working alongside the doctors to provide efficient and effective medical care to the Enterprise crew.
While Nurse Ogawa does not have as prominent a role as the main characters, her character contributes to the depth and authenticity of the medical department aboard the starship. Her presence highlights the importance of the nursing profession and the vital role it plays in providing holistic care to the crew in a futuristic setting.
Ensign Ro Laren, portrayed by actress Michelle Forbes, is a Bajoran officer who joins the crew of the USS Enterprise-D in the fifth season of “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” Ro Laren is a complex and multidimensional character, known for her independent spirit and strong sense of justice.
As a Bajoran, Ro Laren brings her cultural heritage and experiences to her role as a Starfleet officer. She is introduced as a non-conformist and a bit of a rebel, often challenging authority and pushing the boundaries of Starfleet regulations. Ro is fiercely proud of her Bajoran identity and struggles to balance her loyalty to her people with her obligations as a Starfleet officer.
Ro serves as a junior officer in various capacities during her time on the Enterprise-D. Initially assigned to the operations division, she eventually becomes a member of the ship’s security department. Ro’s skills include tactical expertise, reconnaissance, and problem-solving abilities honed during her time as a member of the Bajoran resistance movement.
Ro’s character arc involves personal growth and overcoming her past traumas. Throughout the series, she learns to trust her fellow crew members and develops close relationships with them, particularly with Commander William Riker, who becomes a mentor figure to her. Ro’s journey showcases her transformation from a skeptical and rebellious officer to someone who recognizes the importance of teamwork and cooperation.
As a Bajoran, Ro Laren’s character provides insights into the struggles and history of her people, including the Cardassian occupation of Bajor. Her character adds diversity and complexity to the Enterprise crew, representing the challenges faced by individuals caught between their cultural identities and their obligations as Starfleet officers.
Keiko O’Brien, portrayed by actress Rosalind Chao, is a botanist and teacher who serves as a recurring character in “Star Trek: The Next Generation” and becomes a main character in “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.” Keiko is known for her nurturing nature and her deep commitment to her family.
Initially introduced in “The Next Generation,” Keiko O’Brien is a civilian aboard the USS Enterprise-D, a Galaxy-class starship. She is married to Chief Miles O’Brien, the ship’s transporter chief and later chief of operations. Keiko’s character provides a glimpse into the life of civilians and the challenges they face aboard a starship.
As a botanist, Keiko is responsible for the maintenance and care of the ship’s arboretum, a section dedicated to growing various plant species. She has a deep passion for plants and their importance in maintaining the ship’s ecosystem. Keiko’s expertise in botany occasionally becomes essential in solving environmental and biological puzzles encountered during missions.
In “Deep Space Nine,” Keiko and her husband Miles O’Brien move to the space station and become integral members of the community. Keiko takes on the role of a schoolteacher, establishing a school for the children aboard the station. Her dedication to education and fostering the growth of young minds is a recurring theme in her character’s story.
As a wife and mother, Keiko’s character showcases the challenges of balancing personal and professional responsibilities in a unique environment. Her relationships with her husband and their children, Molly and later Kirayoshi, are explored throughout the series, portraying the dynamics of family life in the midst of their Starfleet duties.
Keiko’s character brings warmth, empathy, and a sense of domesticity to the Star Trek universe. She represents the importance of family and community, offering a grounded perspective amidst the grand adventures and cosmic challenges faced by the series’ characters.
Alexander Rozhenko, portrayed by actors Jon Paul Steuer and later Brian Bonsall, is the son of Lieutenant Worf, a Klingon officer serving aboard the USS Enterprise-D. Alexander is a half-human, half-Klingon child and is an important recurring character in “The Next Generation.”
Physically, Alexander displays Klingon characteristics, such as cranial ridges and forehead features. As a young boy, he often wears traditional Klingon clothing, including armor and warrior attire, reflecting his Klingon heritage.
Alexander’s character explores the challenges of his mixed heritage and his struggle to find his identity. As a Klingon-Human hybrid, he is torn between the aggressive and honor-driven Klingon culture and the more reserved and diplomatic nature of the Human society in which he grows up.
Throughout the series, Alexander faces difficulties adapting to both Klingon and Human customs, often seeking guidance from his father and other members of the crew. He struggles to find his place and reconcile the conflicting expectations placed upon him.
As Alexander grows older, he develops an interest in Klingon martial traditions and strives to become a warrior. He receives training from his father and other Klingon mentors, learning the art of combat and embracing his Klingon heritage.
Alexander’s character adds depth to the exploration of Klingon culture and provides insights into the complexities of multi-cultural identities. His journey highlights themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and the challenges faced by individuals navigating between two contrasting cultures.
Lieutenant Reginald Barclay, portrayed by actor Dwight Schultz, is an intelligent yet socially awkward Starfleet officer who serves as an occasional recurring character in “Star Trek: The Next Generation” and “Star Trek: Voyager.” Barclay is known for his remarkable technical skills and his struggles with anxiety and interpersonal relationships.
Barclay’s character is initially introduced as a subordinate officer in the Enterprise-D’s engineering department, but he also occasionally assists in other areas of the ship. He is portrayed as a highly skilled engineer, with expertise in computer systems and holodeck technology.
However, Barclay often experiences extreme anxiety and finds it difficult to connect with others, leading to feelings of inadequacy and isolation. He displays characteristics of social anxiety disorder, which manifest in his difficulty in forming relationships and his reliance on holodeck simulations as an escape from reality.
Despite his personal challenges, Barclay demonstrates exceptional problem-solving abilities and resourcefulness when it comes to overcoming technical obstacles. His unconventional and creative thinking often leads to innovative solutions in high-pressure situations.
Throughout the series, Barclay seeks guidance and support from his colleagues, including Chief Engineer Geordi LaForge and Counselor Deanna Troi. They help him address his social anxieties and offer him guidance in navigating interpersonal relationships.
Barclay’s character arc shows gradual growth and development as he gains confidence and learns to manage his anxieties. He becomes more comfortable working with others and forms genuine connections with his fellow crew members.
Barclay’s character adds depth and complexity to the Star Trek universe, highlighting the challenges faced by individuals with social anxiety and emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in supporting others who may struggle with similar issues.
Q, portrayed by actor John de Lancie, is a powerful and omnipotent being who belongs to the Q Continuum, an extradimensional realm of beings with godlike abilities. Q serves as a recurring character in “Star Trek: The Next Generation” and other Star Trek series.
Physically, Q appears as a humanoid figure, typically dressed in extravagant and flamboyant attire. However, Q often assumes various forms and shapes, using his reality-altering powers to manipulate his appearance and the environment around him.
Q is known for his mischievous and unpredictable nature. He possesses an immense intellect and a playful demeanor, often using his powers to test and challenge the crew of the USS Enterprise-D. Q’s primary interactions occur with Captain Jean-Luc Picard, whom he views as an intriguing and worthy opponent.
Q has the ability to manipulate time, space, and matter effortlessly, which allows him to create complex scenarios and place the crew in extraordinary situations. Through his encounters with the Enterprise crew, Q presents moral dilemmas and philosophical questions, provoking thought and growth among the characters.
While Q is often portrayed as a trickster figure, he also exhibits moments of compassion and enlightenment. As the series progresses, Q develops a peculiar fascination with humanity, seeking to understand and evaluate their potential and flaws.
Q’s presence in the series adds an element of cosmic intrigue and philosophical exploration. His interactions with the crew challenge their beliefs and assumptions, prompting them to question their values and the nature of their existence.
Throughout “Star Trek: The Next Generation” and subsequent series, Q appears in various episodes, both as a catalyst for adventure and as a source of guidance and enlightenment for the crew.
Information from watching the series, as well as from Wikipedia and Memory Alpha.
Meredith Grey (Ellen Pompeo) Meredith is the central character and narrates most of the shows. She began as an intern and is now a resident. She has had an off and on romance with Derek Shepherd, and they finally got married by post-it note. She calls herself “dark and stormy,” mostly due to issues with her alcoholic absent father who she feels abandoned her many years ago. She also had difficulty reconciling her mother’s long-term affair with Chief of surgery Richard Webber. She is best friends with Cristina Yang and they refer to each other as “my person.” She has a half sister named Lexie and she had difficulty accepting her when she first came to Seattle Grace Hospital, but they have slowly grown closer.
Cristina Yang (Sandra Oh) Cristina is a cardiothoracic surgery resident who is an overachiever. Her life revolves around surgery and she has been known to put surgery before the relationships in her life. She is best friends with Meredith Grey. For some time, she had a serious relationship with Preston Burke but he left her on their wedding day. She is currently in a relationship with Owen Hunt. He had a relationship with Teddy Altman in Iraq and there is a bit of a love triangle between the three. Cristina offers to give Owen to Teddy in order to scrub in on surgery with Altman as her teacher. She later works through this with Owen.
Derek Shepherd (Patrick Dempsey) – He was originally the head of neurosurgery but took over as chief of surgery when Dr. Webber was “demoted” due to his alcohol issues. He was nicknamed “McDreamy” by the girls. He came to Seattle Grace to get away from his ex-wife Addison, who cheated on him with his best friend Mark Sloan. He began an on-and-off-again relationship with Meredith and they recently ended up marrying by post it note. He has been having issues with Webber since he went to the hospital board about Webber’s drinking problem, resulting in his demotion. They have been able to come to a truce and appear to be helping each other through their trials in their new positions.
Alex Karev (Justin Chambers) – Alex grew up in an unstable home. He continuously had to protect his mother from his father, who was abusive. He had numerous flings with different women at Seattle Grace Hospital until he met a patient named Ava. She came in with amnesia and he took care of her, eventually falling in love. Ava left and later spent some time in a mental hospital and they end up going their separate ways. He later begins to date Izzie and they got married while she was in the hospital with cancer. After she was let go from Seattle Grace for performing an incorrect procedure on a renal patient, causing her to code and almost die. She then disappeared and left him floundering. He started sleeping with Lexie.
Miranda Bailey (Chandra Wilson) – She is the attending general surgeon at Seattle Grace Hospital. She was always supportive to Chief Webber especially because she wasn’t afraid to tell him like it is. She is well-known for her tough and domineering attitude and earned the nickname The Nazi. She comes across as tough but has softened toward the residents as she has formed relationships with them. The long hours spent at work caused problems between her and her husband and they ended up divorcing. Recently she has started to date Ben Warren (Jason George).
Richard Webber (James Pickens, Jr.) – He was the original Chief of Surgery at Seattle Grace Hospital. Years ago, he had an affair with Meredith’s mom (Ellis Grey), and the affair contributes to the tension between him and Meredith at work. He struggled with alcoholism in the past and when Seattle Grace and Mercy West merged, it caused him much stress and he ended up falling off the wagon. Derek Shepherd reported him to the hospital board, and he was subsequently demoted back to surgeon and told to get help for his alcoholism. Shepherd took over as acting chief in his absence and there has been a lot of tension between the two because Webber does not like the way Shepherd has been running the hospital. Being back in the OR reminds him of his love for surgery and he and Shepherd have come to a truce of sorts. Webber has been offering advice on how to deal with the administrative end of the job.
Mark Sloan (Eric Dane) – Mark is the head of plastic surgery. His character ways was a playboy and he even had an affair with Addison Montgomery Shepherd (Derek’s wife), which ruined his friendship with Shepherd for quite some time. The femlales at Seattle Grace nicknamed “McSteamy.”. He started to date Lexie Grey and the relationship turned serious when they decided to move in together. He found out he had an 18 year old pregnant daughter when she showed up on his doorstep, and Lexie had a difficult time adjusting to the thought of “playing mom.” His daughter’s name is Sloan as well and he is excited about being a granddad but Sloan wants to give the baby up for adoption. She ends up leaving without telling him and he really feels the loss. He starts dating Teddy Altman but explains that he doesn’t want a fling, he wants a family, which is opposite of everything he has been up to this point.
Alexandra ‘Lexie” Grey (Chyler Leigh) – She is resident and half-sister to Meredith (same father). She is known for her photographic memory. Initially, she and Meredith did not get along but have slowly grown closer. She dated Mark Sloan for quite some time but it ended when his 18 year old daughter showed up at his door pregnant and moved in with them. He was excited about being a grandfather and began to envision a whole family that Lexie was not ready for. She bolted and took solace in sleeping with Alex Karev, neither of which is looking for anything serious. She found out that Sloan moved on with Teddy Altman and she was upset.
Teddy Altman (Kim Raver) – She is the head of cardiothoracic surgery at Seattle Grace. She knows Owen Hunt from the past because they served together in Iraq. They were in love and she is still in love with him although he is dating Cristina Yang. She is tough on Yang in surgery and has different teaching methods than what we are used to, but Yang wants to scrub in on as many surgeries with her that she can. Yang offered to trade Owen if she would allow her to scrub in on surgery. Teddy told Owen this, causing issues between him and Yang. Currently she is dating Mark Sloan and they are taking it slowly.
Owen Hunt (Kevin McKidd) – He is the head of trauma surgery and Yang’s current boyfriend. He suffers from PTSD (posttraumatic stress disorder) from his time in Iraq and because of this he almost kills Yang when he chokes her in his sleep. Yang becomes afraid of him so he seeks therapy and they are able repair their relationship. He struggles with memories of Iraq and his time with Altman and their relationship. He and Yang have a stormy relationship and it almost ends when she offers to give him to Altman in trade for more surgery opportunities.
Arizona Robbins (Jessica Capshaw) – She is the head of pediatric surgery. She appears calm and able to counsel others through highly emotional situations. She is currently dating Callie Torres and has helped her with ‘coming out’ to her dad, although it doesn’t go well at all. Callie wants kids and she adamantly does not, so this is a point of contention for their relationship.
Calliope “Callie” Torres (Sara Ramirez) – She is an attending orthopaedic surgeon. She got married to George O’Malley but they divorced because he realized he was in love with Izzie. Callie started a relationship with Erica Hahn but it was cut short when Hahn left the hospital over the lack of punishment for Izzie. She has since met Arizona Robbins and they are dating. She “came out” to her dad, who was not happy, but after cutting her off from his money and not speaking to her, he has begun to come around. She and Arizona have discussed children and Arizona vehemently does not want them. Callie is upset and ready to end the relationship because she realizes that she absolutely does want children.
Addison Montgomery Shepherd (Kate Walsh) – Former head of OB/GYN and Neonatal Surgery. She was married to Derek Shepherd but they got divorced due to her infidelity with his best friend Mark Sloan. She transferred to Seattle Grace and attempted to get back together with Derek, but she finally realized he was in love with Meredith and ended up leaving Seattle Grace (she is currently on the spinoff show Private Practice). She occasionally makes guest appearances on Grey’s Anatomy.
Isobel “Izzie” Stevens (Katherine Heigl) – Izzie grew up poor and gave a daughter up for adoption when she was 16. She started as an intern at Seattle Grace where she met Denny Duquette, a patient she fell in love with. He needed a heart transplant and he was not going to get one in time, so she purposely cut his LVAD wires, causing him to die. She almost lost her job over this and spiraled into a deep depression. She began dating Alex Karev and their relationship had its ups and downs. She was diagnosed with metastatic melanoma and had to undergo rigorous treatment. They ended up marrying in the hospital and she underwent surgery, surviving the treatment. Once back to work, she accidentally induced hyperkalaemia in a patient slated for renal transplant and therefore lost her job. She left Seattle Grace without a word to anyone, especially her husband Alex and has reappeared occasionally. She and Karev have since separated and she is working at another hospital.
George O’Malley (T. R. Knight) – George is an intern who was originally infatuated with Meredith. They ended up sleeping together and she cried, humiliating him. They were able to get past that and remain close friends. He was always close friends with Izzie as well. He began to date Callie Torres, and they ended up getting married. He began to develop feelings for Izzie, and therefore broke it off with Callie. They attempted a relationship but realized they were better off as friends. He died when he tried to save a girl from being hit by a bus and ended up getting hit instead.
Larry David Larry is the star of the show as well as the writer. He plays himself, but nobody is really this clueless. He’s a comic genius. Larry the character is socially inept and very self-centered. He gets irritated by other people and situations (sometimes justified) but mostly ends up annoying other people with what he says and does. He gets himself into strange situations sometimes.
Jeff Greene Jeff is Larry’s best friend and lives nearby as well. Jeff is similar to Larry but is more jovial and gets along better with people. He’s also Larry’s manager. Jeff is married to a real shrew and has cheated on her. He and Larry are often getting into mishaps, but Larry is more the leader and Jeff is the follower.
Cheryl David Cheryl was Larry’s wife for many years on the show, but they got divorced. She thought she was too good for him because she was very pretty and better with people. Larry can be a real idiot sometimes, especially when it comes to people. Cheryl, like most of the people in this show, is very self-centered. Most of them are very spoiled and living in a rich-person’s Hollywood bubble. Cheryl was an actress but apparently not a very good one because she didn’t get too many parts.
Susie Greene Susie is Jeff’s long-suffering wife who has a loud mouth and is very outspoken. Larry and Jeff do a lot of crazy, stupid things and she is the one who usually is there to yell at them for it. Then again, it would be really hard to be married to someone like her.
Richard Lewis Like Larry, Richard plays a fictional version of himself. We don’t know which is real and which is fiction. Richard is very neurotic and worries a lot (most of his comedy shows are about that, too). He often has a beautiful woman on his arm, but he usually ends up screwing up the relationship in one way or another.
Marty Funkhouser He’s an old friend of Larry’s.
Leon Black Leon is a distant relative of Larry’s ex-girlfriend Loretta. When she and her family left Larry’s house, he stayed. He and Larry are good friends and often get into trouble together.
Sammi Greene Sammi is Jeff and Susie’s daughter. She’s now an adult.
Ted Danson He also plays a fictionalized version of himself. Ted in the show seems very laid back but often gets into fights with Larry. After he and his wife divorced, he dated Larry’s ex-wife, Cheryl.
Nat David Larry’s dad, who might be even more annoying than Larry.
Antoinette Spolar Larry’s previous receptionist, who kept a lot of his secrets…She was in the first four seasons.
Loretta Black Larry’s ex-girlfriend
Keysha Black She and Darryl are Loretta’s children.
Nan Funkhouser She’s married to Marty, until they divorce.
Wanda Sykes She also plays herself. Whenever Larry talks to her, he often ends up saying the wrong thing about black people. Wanda often gets annoyed with Larry for what he says and does, especially with regards to black people.
