With the conclusion of “Star Trek: Discovery” after five groundbreaking seasons, the “Star Trek” universe is set to expand in new and exciting directions. While fans eagerly await the third season of “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds,” which is slated for a 2025 release, the next major project on the horizon is “Starfleet Academy.” This upcoming series is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the beloved sci-fi franchise, focusing on the training ground for the future leaders of the Federation.
Here’s everything we know so far about “Starfleet Academy” and what you can expect from this highly anticipated series.
Release Date and Production Details
“Starfleet Academy” is set to begin filming in late summer 2024 at Pinewood Studios in Toronto, Canada. The production will feature one of the most elaborate sets ever created for a “Star Trek” series, including a two-story academic atrium, an amphitheater, and classrooms for the brightest minds in astrophysics. The filming process is expected to last six months, followed by an additional 6-8 months of post-production. This timeline suggests that “Starfleet Academy” will likely make its debut on Paramount+ sometime in 2026.
Plot Overview
Set in the 32nd century, “Starfleet Academy” will take place in San Francisco, at the heart of the Federation’s educational hub. The series unfolds after the events of “The Burn” — a galaxy-wide disaster that nearly wiped out the universe’s supply of dilithium, a critical component for faster-than-light travel. With the crisis averted, thanks to the efforts of Michael Burnham and her crew in “Star Trek: Discovery,” the Federation is now in a period of rebuilding and rediscovery. “Starfleet Academy” will explore the lives of the first class of cadets to enroll after the Burn. These young recruits, who will be the future captains, commanders, and science officers of Starfleet, will navigate the challenges of a galaxy still recovering from a cataclysmic event. The series will delve into themes of friendship, rivalry, romance, and the pursuit of knowledge, all within the framework of an academic setting.
Creative Team
The series will be helmed by longtime “Star Trek” executive producer Alex Kurtzman, who will share showrunning duties with Noga Landau, known for her work on “Nancy Drew.” Kurtzman, who has been a key figure in the modern “Star Trek” universe, will also direct the first two episodes. The production will be managed by CBS Studios in collaboration with Secret Hideout and Roddenberry Entertainment. Gaia Violo, who wrote the series premiere, will also serve as an executive producer alongside Aaron Baiers, Olatunde Osunsanmi, Jenny Lumet, Rod Roddenberry, Trevor Roth, Frank Siracusa, and John Weber. There are also rumors that Jonathan Frakes, a fan-favorite director and actor in the “Star Trek” universe, may direct some episodes.
Cast and Characters
While the full cast list has yet to be announced, a few key names have already been revealed. Academy Award-winning actress Holly Hunter (“The Piano”) is set to play the captain and chancellor of Starfleet Academy, overseeing the faculty and guiding the new cadets. In addition, Paul Giamatti (“John Adams,” “The Illusionist”) has been cast as the season’s primary antagonist, described as “a man with an ominous past connected to one of our cadets.” Newcomers Kerrice Brooks, Bella Shepard, and George Hawkins have also joined the cast as cadets at the academy, each bringing a unique background and perspective to the series.
What to Expect
“Starfleet Academy” is poised to offer a fresh take on the “Star Trek” universe, blending the excitement of space exploration with the personal dramas and challenges of young cadets. With its focus on a new generation of Starfleet officers, the series promises to be both optimistic and emotionally resonant, reflecting the struggles and aspirations of today’s youth. The show is expected to follow a 10-episode format, similar to other “Star Trek” series on Paramount+. While it’s still early in the development process, fans can look forward to a series that combines the rich lore of “Star Trek” with the energy and enthusiasm of a younger cast.
Anticipation and Fan Reaction
As the series moves closer to production, excitement is building among “Star Trek” fans. The combination of a prestigious cast, an experienced creative team, and the rich setting of Starfleet Academy has many anticipating a show that will honor the legacy of “Star Trek” while introducing new ideas and characters to the universe. While we wait for the first trailers and teasers to drop, “Starfleet Academy” already promises to be a bold and exciting addition to the “Star Trek” franchise. Whether you’re a lifelong Trekkie or new to the universe, this series is shaping up to be a must-watch when it arrives on Paramount+ in 2026.