Scott Bakula’s New Star Trek Project Finally Gives Trek an Andor Replacement Show

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I remember when *Enterprise* ended – it felt a little disappointing, honestly. After four seasons, it just sort of fizzled out, and the finale felt rushed, like they were trying to wrap everything up quickly because people were getting tired of *Star Trek* at the time. But even though the show had its problems, I really think it gave us a fantastic captain in Jonathan Archer, played by Scott Bakula. He had so much potential, and I was really invested in his journey.

Captain Jonathan Archer wasn’t only a skilled leader and adventurous explorer; he played a key role in the founding of the Federation. As shown in *Star Trek: Enterprise*, he later became President of the Federation. Now, Scott Bakula (who played Archer) and *Enterprise* writer/producer Mike Sussman want to further develop Archer’s story with a new *Star Trek* series that would fill the void left by the end of *Andor*.

Mike Sussman and Scott Bakula Envision a Distinct Show in the Star Trek Universe

In a recent conversation with TrekMovie.com, writer Eric Sussman discussed his idea for a new Star Trek series centered around Captain Archer, played by Scott Bakula. He originally pitched this spinoff to Paramount and Secret Hideout several years ago, but it was initially turned down. However, Sussman has continued working on the concept, now titled Star Trek: United, and hopes to present it again following the merger between Paramount and Skydance. The series would be different from other Star Trek shows, offering a political thriller in the style of Andor.

According to Sussman, the planned series *Star Trek: United* would focus on Jonathan Archer after the events of *Enterprise*, showing his time as President of the Federation. The show would also delve into his family life, featuring his four grown children who are all involved in politics or diplomacy. This adds layers to the story, as the children have connections to various organizations like Starfleet and Federation Intelligence, and also mirrors actor Robert Bakula’s own life as a father of four. The show’s overall structure is inspired by *The West Wing*, which followed the two terms of President Jed Bartlet, but Sussman also mentioned a darker, more realistic tone similar to the series *Andor*.

Star Trek: Enterprise aimed to expand on the history of the Star Trek universe, showing the events that led to the creation of the Federation. A key storyline fans were hoping for was the Romulan War, but it wasn’t fully explored. However, Ralph Sussman has indicated that the upcoming series, Star Trek: United, will focus more on this important conflict, even starting with a flashback to the peak of the war. The consequences of the war will also be central to the show’s storyline. Sussman is particularly interested in exploring why the relationship between the Romulans and the Vulcans remained a mystery for so long.

During the Romulan War, battles took place in space and communication relied on radio, meaning no one actually saw a Romulan person. It wasn’t until the first season of the original Star Trek series, in the episode “Balance of Terror,” that the crew of the USS Enterprise finally did. Now, writer Sussman is interested in exploring the idea that either the Federation or the Romulans deliberately hid the historical connection between Romulans and Vulcans, and why. The upcoming Star Trek: United series will emphasize the spy thriller aspects of the show, and Sussman wants to bring back the character of Talok (played by Todd Stashwick), a Romulan spy who previously disguised himself as a Vulcan.

With war’s consequences, political maneuvering, and the threat of Romulan spies, the series is becoming a lot like *Star Trek*’s take on *Andor*. But the real connection isn’t just the storyline – it’s what these shows represent for the future of their respective franchises.

Star Trek: United Is an Andor Replacement Show

Premiering in 2022, *Andor* is a *Star Wars* series that tells the story of how Cassian Andor (Diego Luna) became a leader in the fight against the Empire. It’s a prequel to the film *Rogue One*. The show has received incredible praise, earning 22 Emmy nominations, but it’s also unique within the *Star Wars* universe. *Andor* is notably darker, more realistic, and deals with complex political issues in a way that’s more mature and direct than other *Star Wars* stories. While politics have always been part of *Star Wars*, *Andor* brings those themes to the forefront.

The series *Andor* showcases the complex and layered world of *Star Wars*, proving it’s about more than just lightsaber duels and the Force. While some fans who prefer the action-packed side of *Star Wars* might find it different, many appreciate its fresh and original approach. If *Star Trek: United* comes to fruition, it would have a similar effect on the *Star Trek* universe. Like *Star Wars*, *Star Trek* has always explored political ideas, but within the exciting setting of space travel, alien encounters, and a hopeful vision of the future. However, based on what’s been described, *Star Trek: United* seems to be aiming for a more serious tone, moving away from some of the franchise’s traditionally lighter elements.

“Star Trek: United” seems to be aiming for a more sophisticated, character-driven story, focusing on a more mature Jonathan Archer and tackling complex political issues. It would explore themes like the presidency, diplomacy, war, and government secrets. While it shares some similarities with the show *Andor*, it’s not trying to be a copy. Instead, it aims to capture the same feeling of originality and quality. The key difference is that *Star Trek: United* centers around a president and political maneuvering, without necessarily focusing on anti-fascist themes like *Andor*. Because *Star Trek* generally presents a more hopeful vision of the future than *Andor*, the new series likely won’t be as dark. This allows *Star Trek: United* to offer something different from *Andor* while still feeling fresh and unique.

Will the Star Trek Franchise Get Expanded?

Although it’s still in the early stages, a new series is looking more likely than it used to be. Paramount-Skydance is actively trying to grow the *Star Trek* universe and has brought on talented people to help, including Chris Parnell, who was recently hired as a key executive at Paramount+. This suggests a bright future for the franchise.

Mark A. Altman, a big *Star Trek* fan himself, says that Parnell also genuinely loves the show and understands what makes it special. Having someone with that level of passion in a leadership role, combined with a studio eager to expand the *Star Trek* universe, is encouraging news for *Star Trek: United*.

Currently, *Star Trek: United* is just a promising idea. But if it’s actually made, it could be a truly significant addition to the *Star Trek* universe. The series would break new ground, offering a unique look inside the Federation through the eyes of a key character. It wouldn’t just be a fresh start for *Star Trek*; it could also address some long-standing issues with the franchise’s history.

As a big fan, I was really disappointed when *Star Trek: Enterprise* ended so suddenly. We were just starting to see things like the Romulan War develop, and it felt like Captain Archer’s story wasn’t finished. That’s why I’m so excited about *Star Trek: United* – it feels like a chance to finally wrap up the storylines *Enterprise* began and take the whole *Star Trek* universe in some exciting new directions.

With the popularity of shows like *Andor*, audiences are clearly interested in intense, politically-driven stories that focus on individual characters. *Star Trek: United* has a great opportunity to tap into this demand, especially since *Andor* has proven there’s room for more serious, politically-focused science fiction. The show can also stand on its own by combining realistic and hopeful elements, and it has the potential to significantly expand the *Star Trek* universe beyond simply being a comparable series.

Similar to *Andor*, *Star Trek: United* has the potential to become the defining show of the *Star Trek* franchise, attracting both longtime fans and new viewers with its complex stories and fresh ideas. If Paramount+ fully commits to *Star Trek: United*, it could demonstrate the franchise’s ability to innovate, honor its history, and usher in a new generation of *Star Trek*.

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2025-10-08 06:38