George Hawkins On Darem’s Growth In Star Trek: Starfleet Academy

by

George Hawkins delivers a nuanced performance as Darem Reymi in Star Trek: Starfleet Academy. Darem, the first Khionian character in Star Trek, appears confident and assertive, but beneath the surface, he’s driven by a need for his parents’ approval, motivating him to succeed at the Academy.

In the seventh episode of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, Darem returns to his home planet, the Khionian Realm, to fulfill his obligation of marrying Kaira (played by Jaelynn Throra Brook) and becoming its ruler. However, Jay-Den Kraag (Karim Diané) discovers that Darem actually wants to continue his studies at Starfleet Academy. Ultimately, Jay-Den helps Kaira understand Darem’s wishes, and she allows him to follow his dream and pursue a career in Starfleet.

I recently read a fascinating interview with George Hawkins over at ScreenRant! He talked about how amazing it was to be the first actor to play a Khionian in Star Trek, and it really shed light on his character, Darem. It turns out Darem actually wants to join Starfleet instead of ruling as a king – such an interesting twist! Hawkins also gave us a peek into the sweet, developing relationship between Darem and Jay-Den, which I’m really excited about.

George Hawkins Reveals The Ups And Downs Of Being Star Trek’s First Khionian

George Hawkins describes his character, Darem, as a particularly interesting Khionian, noting he comes from a prominent family. Hawkins enjoys playing Darem’s high status within the show, as status is a key element of the story. He finds it fun to portray a character who believes he’s superior to others, because that’s a contrast to his own personality. He emphasizes that Darem’s sense of status is a defining characteristic.

Hawkins points out that playing Darem has a challenging side. Because the character is often alone, he experiences moments of solitude and has to rely on his own self-worth, which can lead to feelings of isolation.

Why Darem Gives Up Being King For Starfleet Academy

Darren had the chance to be a king, but he chose to join Starfleet instead. That’s a pretty surprising decision! As you were reading the script, what helped you understand why Darren would make that choice?

What you just said is key – it’s all about choice. Darem now has the opportunity to make his own decisions, not because he’s naturally independent, but because circumstances have forced him to. He’s now living a life driven by his own desires and under his own control. This whole story is about that journey – about destiny – and seeing where Darem ultimately chooses to go and what he wants to become.

This episode centers around the idea of making choices, and Darren’s strong connection to his homeland, Khionia. He feels a deep loyalty to the people of Khionia – they are his family, and he deeply values that bond. However, he also feels drawn to his work at the Academy, and it’s moving to see how his loved ones react to the path he’s choosing.

Kaira sees him in a situation where it’s clear he needs to move on. While he hasn’t lost his passion, becoming queen is incredibly important to Kaira and comes with a lot of responsibility. It’s a sad but realistic moment where she has to make a difficult decision about their future.

Darem realizes it’s time for him to leave; he doesn’t belong there anymore and has other places to be. It’s incredibly moving to see someone else give him their support to pursue the life he desires. It’s a truly beautiful moment.

George Hawkins’ Deep Dive Into Darem’s Growth In Star Trek: Starfleet Academy Season 1

Darem’s story in the first season of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy really captures what it’s like to go to college. While on Khionia, he had a fixed idea of who he was, but at the Academy, his mind opened up to all sorts of new possibilities.

George Hawkins finds the evolution of Darem’s character fascinating. He explains that Darem often enters a scene with a clear intention to dominate and take control of the space, which makes him a compelling character to play. This ambition—to be the most prominent presence in any situation—leads Darem to a realization: he doesn’t have to achieve his goals alone.

Hawkins describes how Darem begins the first season believing he’s self-sufficient and can accomplish everything alone. However, throughout the season, he discovers the importance of relying on others, realizing that growth and success come from relationships and support.

George explains that learning to truly collaborate with other actors has been his biggest breakthrough. He says it’s surprisingly challenging to shift from a dominant, controlling approach to one of shared creativity and mutual support, but incredibly rewarding to watch unfold on screen.

Why Darem Doesn’t Have A Scene With His Parents In Star Trek: Starfleet Academy Episode 7

Darem’s parents are featured in the Star Trek: Starfleet Academy episode 7, listed as Darem’s Father (Chris Lightfoot) and Darem’s Mother (Carla Devenish). Although they are portrayed as distant and critical figures who greatly influence his life, the episode surprisingly doesn’t include any scenes of them interacting directly with their son, Reymis.

Darem is very motivated by wanting to make his parents happy. George Hawkins explained that the limited interaction between Darem and his parents wasn’t a plot issue, but a deliberate creative choice. He described it as simply a physical distance, noting the script didn’t include any direct conversations between them. Hawkins hopes future storylines might explore that relationship, calling the current distance ‘bittersweet’ and a bold decision that adds emotional depth.

Hawkins feels that Darem’s parents’ silent reaction to him at his wedding intensifies the family’s overall sadness. He explains that Darem’s return to the Academy is driven by his desire for his parents to see him, and that the resulting moment of recognition – shared between all three of them – is particularly heartbreaking because it happens without words. This silence emphasizes how emotionally distant they are, just as Darem has always described them. Hawkins hopes to explore a scene involving Darem and his parents further.

George Hawkins Confirms Darem Is Romantically Attracted To Jay-Den

Jay-Den plays a crucial role in this episode, ultimately helping Darem return to Starfleet Academy. He does this by showing Kaira that Darem is pursuing a different direction in life. From my perspective, there’s a clear connection developing between Darem and Jay-Den, with Darem consistently initiating their interactions. It began with him taking Jay-Den’s binoculars and continued with him offering encouragement during the debates. What do you think is happening between them at this point?

George Hawkins describes the dynamic between Jay-Den and Darem as compelling. Jay-Den acts as a mirror for Darem, offering a stark and honest perspective. He’s the first character at the Academy to directly confront Darem about his flaws – specifically, that he hides behind a facade and avoids facing his fears. Seeing Jay-Den penetrate this mask is a particularly impactful moment in this episode.

Kaira seems to have a unique impact on Darem, much like another person from his past. Both of them have a grounding effect on him. Jay-Den fills a similar role, and while there’s definitely a romantic connection, their relationship goes deeper than just attraction. I believe they’re drawn to each other because they help each other confront the truth, and that’s something we all desire.

Check out our other Star Trek: Starfleet Academy interviews:

  • Bella Shepard
  • Zoë Steiner and Sandro Rosta
  • Tawny Newsome and Cirroc Lofton
  • Kerrice Brooks
  • Noga Landau and Karim Diané
  • Oded Fehr

Read More

2026-02-20 22:31