Star Trek: Strange New Worlds actors discuss fairytale episode

In the penultimate episode of season 4 of ‘Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’, titled ‘Once La'an a Time’, the crew encounters a planet featuring fairytale doppelgängers. The episode explores the emotional development of Security Chief La’an Noonien-Singh as she navigates her past and her relationships with Spock and James T. Kirk.

Actors Christina Chong and Paul Wesley discussed how the fantasy-themed mission serves as a catalyst for character growth. Chong noted that the mission helps La’an process her anger and wounds related to her family history. The episode features Wesley playing Prince Dashing, a character that helps rekindle La’an’s feelings for Kirk, prompting her to consider if a real-life connection is possible.

Chong also performed a dual role in the episode, playing both La’an and her fairytale counterpart, Princess Thalia. The episode follows the crew as they attempt to stop an evil Queen, who serves as a doppelgänger for Uhura.