Whoopi Goldberg has come to the defense of the newly launched series "Star Trek: Starfleet Academy," which is currently facing criticism from some quarters, including notable figures like Elon Musk and Stephen Miller, who have described it as "woke." In a recent episode of "The View," Goldberg passionately argued that the "Star Trek" franchise has always embraced progressive themes from its inception.
Despite the backlash from a segment of the fan base expressing discontent over what they perceive as the show’s shift toward a more socially conscious narrative, critics have largely praised the new series, leading to the announcement of a second season. Goldberg, who famously played the character Guinan in "Star Trek: The Next Generation," pointed out the irony of conservatives expressing dissatisfaction with the show's direction in 2026, emphasizing that the franchise has consistently championed social liberalism.
Addressing the criticisms directly, Goldberg remarked, "These people are b----ing about a TV show," highlighting the complaints from individuals like Musk and Miller regarding the show’s so-called "wokeness." She went on to play a clip featuring actress Gina Yashere, who defended the franchise during a CNN interview, stating that creator Gene Roddenberry was deeply committed to themes of inclusion and diversity, asserting that "Star Trek" has been "woke from day one, and woke is a good word."
Goldberg, reflecting on her own connection to the franchise, declared, "If you’ve never been asleep, you can’t be woke. See? This was a show created with the vision that beings from different planets could coexist and collaborate. This was Gene's dream, and when you watch 'Star Trek,' that is precisely what it conveys."
She posed a compelling question about the priorities of those criticizing the show: "Why are you focusing on a television show when there are pressing issues at hand, such as violence, hunger, and the struggles of farmers? Why is there such an emphasis on this?"
Furthermore, she suggested that perhaps politicians should prioritize their responsibilities while entertainers focus on their craft.
"Star Trek: Starfleet Academy" made its debut on Paramount+ last week and has received favorable reviews from critics, boasting an impressive 87% "Certified Fresh" rating on Rotten Tomatoes. However, audience reactions reveal a starkly divided response, potentially influenced by organized "review bombing" efforts aimed at lowering the show’s ratings.
Historically, "Star Trek" has been recognized for its commitment to themes of liberal diversity and acceptance. As highlighted by culture website Polygon, when the original series premiered in 1967 amidst the Cold War and civil rights movements, it presented a groundbreaking vision of the future by featuring a diverse crew, including a Black woman and a Russian man. The franchise has often tackled societal issues, even showcasing the first interracial kiss on television and addressing intolerance in episodes like "Let That Be Your Last Battlefield," which focused on characters divided by superficial distinctions.
As discussions about the content of the new series continue, both fans and critics are engaged in a lively debate about the direction of the franchise and what it means for the future. Do you think "Star Trek" has strayed too far from its roots, or is it simply continuing its legacy of challenging societal norms? Share your thoughts in the comments!
