In 1995, Star Trek: Voyager premiered, marking a significant milestone as the franchise’s first series to feature a female captain, Kathryn Janeway, portrayed by Kate Mulgrew. The show’s premise centered on a starship stranded in uncharted space, emphasizing themes of unity and resilience.
However, behind the scenes, the introduction of Jeri Ryan’s character, Seven of Nine, in the fourth season, ignited tensions that contrasted sharply with the on-screen camaraderie. Decades later, insights into the strained dynamics between Mulgrew and Ryan, as well as broader cast discontent, shed light on the challenges of revitalizing a series and the personal toll of sudden fame.
By the third season, Voyager faced declining ratings. In response, producers decided to introduce a “Borg bombshell”—a visually captivating female character designed to attract viewers. This led to the creation of Seven of Nine, a former Borg drone on a quest to rediscover her humanity.
Portrayed by Jeri Ryan, Seven was introduced in a form-fitting silver suit, quickly becoming a focal point of the series. This move, while boosting viewership, disrupted existing character dynamics. Co-creator Rick Berman later acknowledged the decision as a deliberate strategy to rejuvenate interest, stating, “We needed something to get people talking.”
This decision, however, led to the abrupt departure of Jennifer Lien’s character, Kes, to make room for Seven. For the ensemble, especially Mulgrew, this shift was unsettling. In her 2015 memoir Born with Teeth, Mulgrew expressed her frustration with the mandate to “sex up” the show, fearing it undermined its progressive values. She admitted to initially resenting the introduction of a “bombshell” character, a sentiment she later regretted.
Jeri Ryan, relatively new to the industry at the time, found herself in a challenging environment. She recalled entering a “wall of silence” during her initial days on set, describing the atmosphere as “painfully awkward.” Ryan noted that Mulgrew’s demeanor was particularly cold, culminating in a notable incident during a table read where Mulgrew allegedly refused proximity to Ryan, stating, “Don’t you ever come near me again.”
Mulgrew later attributed her behavior to a protective instinct toward the cast and frustration with network pressures. This incident highlighted a broader unease among the ensemble. Actors like Robert Picardo (The Doctor) and Ethan Phillips (Neelix) reportedly felt sidelined as Seven’s storylines took precedence. Garrett Wang (Ensign Harry Kim) mentioned in podcasts that the once tight-knit group experienced divisions: “We went from a family to factions overnight.”
Beyond interpersonal tensions, Ryan faced physical and emotional challenges. The restrictive Borg costume required a lengthy dressing process and caused physical discomfort, including bruising from the corset. Additionally, media focus on her appearance often overshadowed her performance, reducing Seven to a mere “sex symbol,” a label Ryan found limiting. She emphasized her efforts to portray Seven’s depth and humanity amidst the external focus on aesthetics.
Mulgrew, as the series lead, grappled with balancing the show’s feminist ideals against network demands for heightened appeal. Over time, her initial resistance toward Ryan softened, especially as Seven’s character developed into one of the series’ most compelling arcs. In a 2019 interview, Mulgrew acknowledged Ryan’s talent, stating, “Jeri’s talent was undeniable. I came to admire her deeply.”
Years after Voyager concluded in 2001, both actresses publicly reconciled. At a 2019 Star Trek convention, Mulgrew commended Ryan’s professionalism, referring to her as a “force of nature.” Ryan, in turn, recognized Mulgrew’s mentorship, noting, “Kate taught me to fight for my character’s integrity.” This evolution mirrored the on-screen relationship between Janeway and Seven, transitioning from initial conflict to mutual respect.
The challenges faced during Voyager‘s production reflect broader industry issues, including the objectification of female actors, the pressures inherent in franchise storytelling, and the delicate balance between creative expression and commercial interests. Ryan’s experiences anticipated contemporary discussions about workplace dynamics and sexism in Hollywood.
Despite the behind-the-scenes turmoil, the series’ lasting impact and Seven’s resurgence in Star Trek: Picard underscore the character’s enduring appeal. Ryan’s nuanced portrayal transformed Seven from a strategic addition into a symbol of resilience and complexity. As Mulgrew reflected in her memoir, “Time softens edges and reveals truth.” For the cast and fans of Voyager, this truth encompasses not only past conflicts but also growth and enduring legacy.
The journey of Star Trek: Voyager offers insight into the entertainment industry’s evolving landscape. The introduction of Seven of Nine serves as a case study in the challenges of reinvigorating a series while maintaining its core values. The initial decision to enhance the show’s appeal through the addition of a “Borg bombshell” highlights the tension between creative storytelling and commercial imperatives.
Moreover, the personal experiences of Ryan and Mulgrew shed light on the complexities actors face when navigating professional relationships under public scrutiny. Their journey from on-set tension to mutual respect exemplifies the potential for growth and reconciliation, both personally and professionally.
In retrospect, the character of Seven of Nine has transcended her original purpose as a ratings booster. Through Ryan’s portrayal, Seven has become a multifaceted character embodying the struggle for identity, acceptance, and humanity. This evolution reflects the broader themes of Star Trek, emphasizing exploration not just of space, but of the human condition.