Joe Morton, celebrated for his roles in iconic sci-fi films like The Brother from Another Planet and Terminator 2: Judgment Day, recently appeared as Admiral Reeger in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. In a recent interview, he shared insights into his character, the evolution of science fiction, and the relevance of AI today.
Morton expressed excitement about joining the Star Trek universe, especially since he was a fan during college. He portrayed Admiral Reeger as a complex character, embodying the struggle between doing the right thing for the wrong reasons. His interactions with Jim Kirk, the son of George Kirk, highlighted Kirk’s rebellious nature, a defining trait of the character.
Reflecting on his extensive theater background, Morton noticed a theatrical quality in Star Trek, noting how the show’s set and adventurous spirit contribute to a unique storytelling style. He also discussed the prescient themes of AI in Terminator, suggesting that today’s discussions about AI echo those from the film.
Morton believes that socially aware sci-fi can serve as a crucial lens for real-world issues, pointing out the significance of representation in early Star Trek. Lastly, he expressed a desire for Admiral Reeger to return in future episodes, hinting at unresolved storylines from his character.
Star Trek: Strange New Worlds is currently streaming on Paramount+.
