Star Trek: Starfleet Academy actor teases increased LGBTQ+ themes in final season

Karim Diané, actor playing Klingon cadet Jay-Den Kraag in the Paramount+ series ‘Star Trek: Starfleet Academy’, has issued a warning to critics regarding the show’s direction in its upcoming second season. Following the announcement that the series will conclude with its second season, Diané indicated that the production will not shy away from the controversial themes that divided audiences during the first season.

In an interview with TrekMovie, Diané teased that the final ten episodes will feature even more prominent LGBTQ+ representation. He stated that while those who enjoyed the themes in the first season will find more to enjoy, those who were upset by them should ‘prepare to be pissed off.’

The series has previously faced criticism and review-bombing from viewers who argued the inclusion of diverse characters and a pacifist Klingon character deviated too far from established franchise lore. While Paramount canceled the series in March 2026, reports suggested low viewership was a factor, though some speculation exists regarding the influence of new ownership.