The secret Wesley Crusher comeback of Wil Wheaton in Star Trek: Prodigy
Not once but twice, in the recent seasons of Star Trek: Picard and Star Trek: Prodigy, Wil Wheaton—known for his performance as Wesley Crusher in Star Trek: The Next Generation—has unexpectedly returned to the Star Trek universe. His visits were closely kept secret, which added to the thrill for those who had missed the character.
Star Trek: Picard and Star Trek: Prodigy Wesley Crusher's Secret Appearances
Wesley returned in secret first in Star Trek: Picard season 2, appearing as the Traveler and enlisting Kore Soong (Isa Briones). This look prepared him for his more major part in Star Trek: Prodigy season 2, where he coached the young Starfleet hopefuls like Kore from the USS Protostar.
Still, there was another, even more covert appearance. Though mixed with Robert Beltran's voice, who portrayed Captain Chakotay in Star Trek: Voyager, Wil Wheaton's voice is indeed audible in season 1 of the show. Designed to surprise viewers, this hidden appearance guarantees that his comeback in season 2 was a real delight.
Challenges Maintaining Wil Wheaton's Wesley Crusher Comeback a Secret
Keeping his return a secret for more than three years proved difficult for Wil Wheaton, particularly given the long lead time needed to create and animate a season of Star Trek: Prodigy. Since 2021 he collaborated closely with the creative team, Kevin and Dan Hageman, and the showrunners. Maintaining anonymity became even more challenging when Paramount+ called off the show before Netflix acquired it, leaving him wondering whether viewers would ever see his work.
Reunion with Beverly Crusher in Star Trek: Prodigy Wesley Crusher
Wil Wheaton's comeback as Wesley in Star Trek: Prodigy season 2 also brought much-needed reunion with his "space mom," Beverly Crusher, voiced by Gates McFadden in the series. Fans who had been yearning for an opportunity to see the characters interact once more following their separation in Star Trek: The Next Generation would have delighted at this reunion.
Future of Wesley Crusher in Star Trek: Prodigy
Should Star Trek: Prodigy be revived, fans are hoping Wil Wheaton will once more play Wesley Crusher. Wesley's mentoring of the young Starfleet hopefuls and his ongoing adventures as the Traveler offer fascinating opportunities, thus his presence in next seasons could provide the crew of the USS Protostar much-needed direction and excitement.
