Movies News Talk
There is a long-standing rumor that Leonard Nimoy wanted to play both Spock and Sybok in William Shatner's Star Trek V: The Final Frontier. Laurence Luckinbill, who played Sybok, thinks this rumor might have contributed to Nimoy's cool demeanor on set. Luckinbill notes that Nimoy was professional but not particularly friendly until filming was finished. He believes that Nimoy may have been envious of the chance to portray Sybok, and perhaps hoped to embody both Spock and his emotionally charged brother.
Luckinbill explains that William Shatner was not going to allow Nimoy to play both roles, and Sean Connery, who was originally considered for the part of Sybok, was unavailable. Ultimately, Luckinbill was cast as Sybok, and he and Nimoy developed a closer relationship after filming ended. Luckinbill even went on to become friends with Nimoy, and they spent time together off-set.
If Nimoy did want to play both Spock and Sybok, it wouldn't have worked logically. Spock and Sybok are not twins; Sybok is the older brother and has a distinct personality. Sybok is not half-human like Spock and is not a follower of Vulcan logic. He has rejected logic in favor of his belief that a God is communicating with him from a mythical world called Sha Ka Ree. Sybok had to be a completely different character than Spock, so Nimoy playing both roles would not have made sense.
Although it would have been intriguing to see Nimoy play his own emotional brother, Shatner had a different vision for the character. He initially envisioned Sybok as a holy man named Zar, inspired by 1980s televangelists. He then decided to make Sybok Spock's brother, and he originally hoped to cast Sean Connery in the role. While the rumor about Nimoy's interest in playing Sybok is unconfirmed, Luckinbill and Nimoy ultimately became friends after the film's release.
The rumor that Nimoy wanted to play both Spock and Sybok could have influenced the dynamic between Nimoy and Luckinbill on the set of Star Trek V. While Luckinbill doesn't confirm this directly, he acknowledges that Nimoy's aloofness on set might have stemmed from his potential desire to play both roles. The rumor also adds an interesting layer to the story of Star Trek V and its production, suggesting that there might have been a degree of tension surrounding the casting of Sybok.
Despite the potential for tension, Luckinbill and Nimoy eventually formed a positive relationship after the film finished. This fact highlights the possibility that the rumor might have been a factor in their initial interactions, but ultimately did not prevent a friendship from forming.
The rumor that Nimoy wanted to play both Spock and Sybok in Star Trek V has persisted over the years. It remains a fascinating anecdote for fans of Star Trek and provides insight into the casting process and potential behind-the-scenes dynamics of the film. Although it is impossible to know for sure whether the rumor is true, it continues to be a subject of speculation and discussion among fans.
The rumor adds another layer to the complex and intriguing world of Star Trek, showcasing the potential for ambition, rivalry, and ultimately, friendship. It is a reminder that even seemingly simple casting choices can have far-reaching implications and lead to unexpected outcomes.