Mia Kirshner cast in Star Trek: Discovery
Star Trek: Discovery is taking things back to Lt. Michael Burnham’s past, casting Mia Kirshner (The Vampire Diaries) as Amanda Grayson, Michael Burnham’s adoptive and Spock’s biological mother. The series has already shown Michael’s Vulcan upbringing in flashbacks and introduced Sarek played by James Frain. Now it seems that more of her family, as well as major players in the Star Trek universe will be making an appearance.
Amanda Grayson first made her television debut in Star Trek: The Original Series. Played by Jane Wyatt, she appeared in the episode “Journey to Babel” and again in Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home. Originally a school teacher, she met Sarek, the Vulcan ambassador to Earth and the 2 married. She was portrayed by Winona Ryder in the J.J.Abrams’ 2009 Star Trek movie.
Originally reported by Trekmovie.com, Kirshner will be playing Amanda in Star Trek: Discovery. It is unknown when Kirscher will make her debut and in what context.
The series is already off to a strong start. Its premiere gained nearly 10 millions viewers, proving a strong critical success with fans and newcomers.
At its heart, that why adding Amanda and tying Michael Burnham closer to the Star Trek mythology is important. Kirshner’s presence on the show will add more backstory to the protagonist, a new addition to the Trek continuity. There’s never been a story like Burnham’s told before, so drawing her further into Sarek’s family will be a welcome move. Of course, actually introducing Spock prior to the events of The Original Series is risky and the writers should be careful that even establishing his parents doesn’t distract from making a character strong and powerful enough to stand on her own.
Star Trek : Discovery airs on CBS (US) and Netflix (UK)
