Captain Jean-Luc Picard (played by Patrick Stewart), of the iconic sci-fi series, Star Trek: The Next Generation, was a serious character! However, you might think he is more stoic and well-composed! What many don't realize, is that the actor who played him actually had a really funny side to him! In "Captain's Holiday, an episode from the series.
An Unexpected Moment
You won't see this often on screen! Stewart was given a moment, in "Captain's Holiday," (in Season 3 of TNG, if you need to find it) and, as many know he had a bit of an awkward start to the series. Even more, "Star Trek: The Next Generation," had a lot of wacky and funny elements! He eventually came to see the show in its humor, but you wouldn't be able to tell that was his personality just by watching Star Trek: The Next Generation. He even acknowledged this at times.
And in a strange, interesting contrast to how things went in earlier seasons! You can really see Patrick Stewart being able to bring some serious, amazing humor to the screen and the actors in the show! Even though he had his serious side.
Star Trek's History of Humor
What's interesting is that Star Trek has included moments that bring a chuckle or even a big laugh.
Some are even memorable! We all love those iconic characters who share amazing lines or hilarious, unexpected moments.
That also brings "Star Trek: The Next Generation" to the table. This special series came around with so much, and the show gave Stewart a unique ability to portray "Captain Jean-Luc Picard," who has been recognized as being more lighthearted!
A Laugh Riot with Captain Picard
Fans are going to love to check this episode out. Dr. Beverly Crusher, (the well-loved actress Gates McFadden). This one is not all just comedy. It had a unique combination of both! This show begins with a heartfelt and touching scene with Dr. Crusher attempting to convince "Captain Picard" to go on vacation. But the captain couldn't be convinced!
The episode then went on to show just how strong his commitment to work was! Commander William Riker, ( Jonathan Frakes, and Counselor Deanna Troi, ( Marina Sirtis both joined the fray and tried their best to persuade him to take a little bit of time off.
Stewart really shows off what an incredible performer he is. His reactions are legendary, giving viewers a lot to enjoy. However, in an act of self-care, and perhaps being tired of those pleas to take time off. The captain made it to Risa (and those who know about this amazing pleasure planet, have already realized this vacation will be out of this world), with one goal. It's to kick back. He was excited to have a special book but quickly learns, even this small break could be anything but relaxed, as he is met with a group of hilarious and wild people who try to get his attention, including the most unforgettable "Vash." She even gets him into an epic adventure to hunt for a very unique, special treasure!
The Funny Moments And It's Lack of A Joke Telling Captain
It looks like the writer’s behind Star Trek: The Next Generation missed some prime opportunities for some light-hearted laughs with the captain! You see, "Star Trek: The Next Generation," had its own fair share of remarkable moments and those included humor that wasn't just "one-liners." The show did have some special moments that would give those who watched the series a whole bunch of humor. And it was in a light, fun-loving way, that audiences enjoyed seeing! What really came to mind though, was how it came through the amazing, powerful cast members! That includes the dynamic that the show built and those well-loved scenes were truly an extension of those memorable personalities, but often lacked a focus on straight up humor.
So while those scenes made TNG entertaining it might not have been exactly the most fun, though still hilarious. And you'd see a great deal of funny lines but rarely at its core! The great actor Stewart is a master at comedy. What's extraordinary about the performer is that they brought out these amazing moments. They were not big, bold jokes! They're part of what made him special and added to the way he embodied Captain Picard! This kind of comedic performance might not have been a key part of his roles, it helped him get through the amazing and wild seasons.
In "Captain's Holiday," that gave us a taste of what an incredible comedian he is, even while having to keep it cool!
If there are Star Trek fans who have missed out, be sure to go back and watch this episode.
With all the humor! Star Trek has so many entertaining, funny and incredible moments, It will keep audiences going back for decades to come! For those who are Star Trek enthusiasts, this show definitely has all of the charm that has helped this series become a classic for audiences!
