Doug Jones recently addressed his potential return to the Star Trek universe, just one year after Star Trek: Discovery wrapped its five-season run. Discovery, which premiered in 2017, followed Commander Michael Burnham (Sonequa Martin-Green) and the crew of the USS Discovery as they navigated pivotal moments in Federation history. Jones portrayed Saru, a Kelpien who grew from a cautious first officer into the confident captain of the USS Discovery and later a renowned Federal Ambassador in the Star Trek: Discovery‘s series finale.
In an interview with ScreenRant at the Saturn Awards, Jones expressed his openness to reprising his role as Saru, suggesting that his character still has a place in the Star Trek universe beyond Discovery. For five seasons, Doug Jones embodied Saru, one of Star Trek: Discovery‘s most beloved captains, bringing warmth, intelligence, and strength to the first Kelpien to enter Starfleet service in Star Trek history. Here’s what he had to say:
Oh gosh, the one place I could appear in immediately would be Starfleet Academy, which is during the same timeline. If there’s ever a Discovery movie, that would be fun too. But I’ve kind of had to say goodbye to Saru for now, in case I never see him again. It’s very bittersweet. I didn’t want the show to end, but at the same time, Saru came to a good conclusion. Romantically, I’m married and with my wife now, and especially, I’m an ambassador doing the diplomacy thing. Saru’s built for diplomacy.
What This Means For Saru’s Future In Star Trek
Saru’s Journey May Not Be Over Just Yet
Doug Jones brought Saru to life, making him one of Star Trek: Discovery‘s most beloved characters. His journey was one of profound growth. Beginning as a cautious officer, shaped by the Kelpiens’ instinctual fear, Saru eventually evolved into a strong, capable leader. In the Star Trek: Discovery series finale, Saru makes a pivotal choice to step away from Starfleet, embracing his next chapter as an ambassador. His journey reaches a heartfelt milestone after his wedding to President T’Rina (Tara Rosling) of Ni’Var, leaving the character with a “good conclusion” and a renewed sense of fulfillment and purpose.
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Nonetheless, Saru is an ideal candidate for a return in the upcoming Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, which is set in the same timeline. The new series will explore the journeys of young cadets as they face their comprehensive Starfleet training. As a seasoned ambassador and former captain, Saru could serve as a mentor or guest lecturer, offering a word of advice to the next generation of officers. With his position in the Federation and expertise in diplomacy, Saru could also be instrumental in shaping and rebuilding Starfleet’s core institution.
Our Take On Saru’s Potential Return To Star Trek
His Story Feels Complete—But Never Say Never
Doug Jones’ Saru had one of Discovery‘s most fascinating arcs, evolving from a fearful Kelpien to a respected captain and ambassador. His story reached a fitting conclusion—finding purpose beyond Starfleet and a fulfilling personal life with President T’Rina. If this is the last we see of him, his journey remains whole. Yet, Starfleet Academy presents an organic way to revisit Saru without undoing that resolution. Whether or not he returns, Saru’s legacy as a steadfast leader and compassionate figure in Star Trek: Discovery is undeniable.
Star Trek: Discovery
7/10
- Release Date
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2017 – 2023
- Showrunner
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Alex Kurtzman
- Writers
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Alex Kurtzman, Bryan Fuller