Where would Commander William T. Riker be if the character of Commander Deana Troi (played by Marina Sirtis) were never created to tame the wild beast? And what about the character of Geordi La Forge, which has an interesting history attached to the naming of this particular role. In the article, we will take a look at what these actors are doing now since the cancellation of the Star Trek: Next Generation television series.
Recap of the Regular Cast
The main cast of characters and actors for Next Generation included: Captain Jean-Luc Picard (played by Patrick Stewart); Commander William T. Riker (played by Jonathan Frakes); Lt. Commander Data (played by Brent Spiner); Lieutenant Worf (played by Micheal Dorn); Commander Deanna Troi (played by Marina Sirtis); Commander Geordi La Forge (played by LeVar Burton); Commander Dr. Beverly Crusher (played by Gates McFadden); and Ensign Wesley Crusher (played by Wil Wheaton).
Marina Sirtis (Commander Deanna Troi )
Sirtis appeared in 167 episodes of the Next Generation television series. After she auditioned for the part of Deanna Troi, she believed that she had performed poorly and got ready to return to London soon after. Minutes before she accomplished that, executives called her back and she was congratulated for landing the role. Before Next Generation, Sirtis appeared in a variety of small roles on the big screen, including a Hooker in the 1984 film, “Blind Date,” as well as a harem girl in the 1978 made-for-TV production of the “Thief of Bagdad.”
After the cancellation of the Next Generation TV series, Sirtis made several appearances in numerous Star Trek spin-offs, reprising her Deanna Troi character. She also played the role of Shereen in the critically acclaimed film, “Crash.” A variety of television appearances followed, included “Girlfriend,” as well as “The Closer.” She is currently in the post production phase of the movie, “Oranges,” which is set for release in 2007.
Did You Know?
1) That the color of Sirtis’ eyes are light brown and throughout the seven years she appeared on the TV series, she wore black contact lenses because this was the color of the eye of Troi.
LeVar Burton (Commander Geordi La Forge)
Appearing in 172 episodes of the Star Trek: Next Generation TV series, LeVar Burton may better be recognized for his previous work as the host of the popular children’s show, “Reading Rainbow” or his gripping portrayal of Alex Haley’s Kunta Kinte in “Roots.” During the years he played La Forge for Star Trek, he was still hosting “Reading Rainbow” until it’s conclusion in 2004.
After Next Generation, Burton appeared in several movies and lent his vocals to many different voice-over projects, including “Family Guy” and “Becker.” He has also directed numerous popular television shows, including “Charmed” and “JAG.” He also directed the made-for TV production of the “Tiger Woods Story. “ which was released in 1998. In the 2001 film, “Ali,” Burton took on the small part of Martin Luther King, Jr. His latest project will involve the proposed 2007 production of “Bending Time,” in whichi he will take on the role of director for this project.
Did You Know?
1) The character of Geordi La Forge was named after a Star Trek fan, who passed away from muscular dystrophy.
2) He write a science fiction novel by the name of “Aftermath.”
3) For his role in Star Trek, he was making $100,000 per episode.