You Won’t Believe What the ‘Star Trek Next Generation’ Cast Looks Like 35 Years Later – The Transformation Is Unreal!

Remember when Star Trek: The Next Generation blasted onto our screens in 1987? Fans were scratching their heads—could a fresh crew really fill the shoes of legends like Kirk and Spock? Spoiler alert: they didn’t just fill those shoes; they moonwalked across the galaxy and redefined sci-fi for a generation. Over seven jam-packed seasons, Captain Jean-Luc Picard and his stellar crew took us on epic voyages that turned the Star Trek universe upside down—in the best way possible—spawning hit spin-offs and securing their spot in pop culture lore. But what happened after the Enterprise-D signed off? How did these iconic cast members navigate the vast universe beyond the show—juggling directing gigs, voice acting, convention circuits, and even surprise comebacks that rekindled our Trek-loving hearts? Buckle up, because we’re diving deep into the journeys of the TNG crew—where they’ve been, what they’ve done, and why their legacy still boldly goes where no story has gone before. LEARN MORE

When Star Trek: The Next Generation premiered in 1987, fans weren’t entirely sure what to make of it. Could a brand-new crew really exist without William Shatner’s Kirk, Leonard Nimoy’s Spock, and the original Enterprise? As it turned out, the answer was a resounding yes. Over seven seasons, TNG not only won over viewers, it redefined what Star Trek could be, becoming one of the most popular sci-fi series of its era and spawning a variety of spin-offs, among them Deep Space Nine and Voyager.

At the center of it all was Patrick Stewart’s Jean-Luc Picard, a captain who led with intellect and heart, surrounded by a crew that quickly became part of pop culture: Jonathan Frakes as the confident Riker, Brent Spiner as the ever-curious android Data, LeVar Burton as the ingenious Geordi, Marina Sirtis as the empathetic Troi, Michael Dorn as the honor-bound Klingon Worf, Gates McFadden as the steadfast Dr. Crusher and Wil Wheaton (later a frequent guest star on The Big Bang Theory) as young Wesley Crusher. Add in memorable presences like Whoopi Goldberg’s Guinan, Diana Muldaur’s short-lived but sharp-tongued Dr. Pulaski and John de Lancie’s mischievous Q, and you had a lineup fans couldn’t forget.

What’s fun to see now is how their lives and careers have played out since the Enterprise-D’s final voyage. Some were already well-known when the show began, while others found TNG to be their big break. After the series wrapped in 1994, the cast reunited for four feature films and most recently came full circle with Star Trek: Picard, which gave fans one last chance to see the crew together.

In the years between, they’ve been busy—directing, writing, producing, teaching, lending their voices to animation and video games and popping up in all sorts of TV shows and movies. Some leaned into convention life, becoming fan favorites on the circuit, while others branched out in entirely new directions. Through it all, their connection to Star Trek: The Next Generation has remained strong, and their characters continue to resonate with audiences old and new.

What follows is a look at the Next Generation cast—who they played, what they were doing before joining the Enterprise and where their careers have taken them since. It’s part history, part nostalgia trip and a reminder of why this crew became as beloved—if not more so—as any in the Star Trek universe.

Patrick Stewart (Jean-Luc Picard)

Character: Jean-Luc Picard, the wise and principled captain of the USS Enterprise-D in Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994). Later, he returned to the role in the Paramount+ series Star Trek: Picard (2020–2023), portraying the character in his later years with new challenges and responsibilities.

Before Star Trek: Patrick Stewart was already an acclaimed stage actor, particularly with the Royal Shakespeare Company. He was known for his classical work and had appeared in British television and films, including roles in I, Claudius (1976) and Excalibur (1981). However, he was not widely recognized outside of theater and British TV circles before TNG.

Between TNG and Picard: Following the series, Stewart starred in four Star Trek feature films (Generations, First Contact, Insurrection, Nemesis) while also achieving mainstream global fame as Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men films (2000–2017). Beyond sci-fi, he has worked in theater, television and film, balancing Shakespearean roles with more comedic turns, such as his self-parodying performance on Extras (2005) and voice work on American Dad! and Family Guy. In 2020, he reprised Picard in the streaming series Star Trek: Picard, earning critical acclaim for revisiting the character in a more personal, reflective story.

Jonathan Frakes (Will Riker)

Character: Commander William Riker, the loyal first officer of the USS Enterprise-D who balanced a cool confidence with a deep respect for Captain Picard. He later became captain of the USS Titan and returned in Star Trek: Picard.

Before Star Trek: Frakes worked steadily as a television actor in the late 1970s and early 1980s, appearing in series such as The Waltons, Falcon Crest, Hill Street Blues and North and South. He had built a reputation as a reliable guest star, though he had not yet landed a career-defining role.

Between TNG and Picard: Beyond reprising Riker in Star Trek feature films, Frakes became one of the franchise’s most prolific directors, helming episodes of TNG, Deep Space Nine, Voyager, Discovery and Picard. Outside the television franchise, he directed films such as Star Trek: First Contact (1996), Star Trek: Insurrection (1998), and Clockstoppers (2002), as well as television episodes across genres. He also became well known as the host of the paranormal-themed series Beyond Belief: Fact or Fiction (1997–2002).

Brent Spiner (Data)

Character: Lieutenant Commander Data, the beloved android officer of the USS Enterprise-D whose quest to understand humanity was central to Star Trek: The Next Generation. Spiner also portrayed multiple roles tied to Data’s lineage, including Dr. Noonien Soong Lore, and later Altan Inigo Soong in Star Trek: Picard.

Before Star Trek: Spiner’s background was primarily in theater, particularly musical comedy, and he built a solid reputation as a stage actor in New York and Los Angeles. He had small roles in television shows like Night Court, Hill Street Blues and Cheers, but was not yet a household name.

Between TNG and Picard: After TNG and its feature films, Spiner became known to a wider audience through his role as Dr. Brackish Okun in Independence Day (1996) and its 2016 sequel. He continued acting across film, television, and stage, often returning to comedic and eccentric parts, and lent his voice to animated series and video games. Within the Star Trek franchise, he reprised Data and related characters in multiple capacities, culminating in Data’s emotional sendoff in Picard.

Gates McFadden (Beverly Crusher)

Character: Dr. Beverly Crusher, the chief medical officer of the USS Enterprise-D and a trusted confidante of Captain Picard. She was also the mother of Wesley Crusher and one of the most compassionate and morally grounded figures in Star Trek: The Next Generation, returning decades later in Star Trek: Picard.

Before Star Trek: McFadden was primarily known for her work as a choreographer and movement consultant in film and theater. She contributed choreography to movies like Labyrinth (1986) and had a background in theater arts, but only limited on-screen acting roles before landing TNG.

Between TNG and Picard: After her time on TNG and the four feature films, McFadden continued acting in television and film, though often in smaller roles, while also returning to choreography and teaching at institutions like the University of Southern California. She reconnected with fans through frequent convention appearances and podcasts and in 2023 made a celebrated return as Beverly Crusher in the final season of Star Trek: Picard, where her character played a pivotal role in the story.

Levar Burton (Geordi La Forge)

Character: Lieutenant Commander Geordi La Forge, the USS Enterprise-D’s chief engineer, known for his technical brilliance and problem-solving skills. Blind from birth, he wore a VISOR that allowed him to see across the electromagnetic spectrum, making him one of the most innovative figures in Star Trek: The Next Generation.

Before Star Trek: Burton rose to fame in 1977 with his breakthrough and widely-acclaimed role as Kunta Kinte in the groundbreaking miniseries Roots. He then became a familiar face to children and families as the longtime host of PBS’ Reading Rainbow (1983–2006), which inspired generations of young readers.

Between TNG and Picard: Burton continued acting in television and film, reprised La Forge in TNG feature films and became a respected director, helming episodes of Star Trek series including Voyager and Enterprise. He also remained a beloved cultural figure through Reading Rainbow’s revival efforts and his popular podcast LeVar Burton Reads. In Star Trek: Picard, he returned as an older, wiser Geordi, now a Starfleet commodore and father to two daughters, providing a heartfelt continuation of his legacy.

Marina Sirtis (Deanna Troi)

Character: Counselor Deanna Troi, the half-human, half-Betazoid empath who served as ship’s counselor aboard the USS Enterprise-D. Known for her compassion and insight, Troi provided emotional guidance to both the crew and Captain Picard, later key roles in Star Trek: Picard.

Before Star Trek: Sirtis trained at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London and worked in British theater and television. She had small parts in series like Minder and Raffles, but TNG was her first major break and the role that brought her international recognition.

Between TNG and Picard: After seven seasons and four feature films as Troi, Sirtis continued to work steadily in television, film and voice acting. She guest-starred in shows like NCIS and lent her voice to animated projects such as Gargoyles. She also became a popular presence at fan conventions, known for her candid and humorous personality. In Star Trek: Picard, she reprised Troi in both Season 1 and Season 3, portraying her as a wife, mother and still a deeply empathetic advisor.

Michael Dorn (Worf)

Character: Lieutenant Worf, the first Klingon to serve in Starfleet, who became chief of security aboard the USS Enterprise-D and later a key figure on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Known for his honor, warrior’s spirit and dry humor, Worf grew into one of Star Trek’s most complex and enduring characters, ultimately returning in Star Trek: Picard.

Before Star Trek: Dorn worked in television throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s, appearing in guest roles on series like CHiPs and Falcon Crest. He also had small parts in films, including Rocky (1976), but was largely unknown before being cast as Worf.

Between TNG and Picard: Dorn became the most prolific Star Trek actor, appearing in more episodes than anyone else across TNG and DS9, as well as four feature films. Beyond Star Trek, he took on voice acting, lending his deep voice to animated series like Gargoyles, Cow and Chicken and I Am Weasel. He also directed episodes of DS9 and Enterprise and pursued aviation as a private pilot. In 2023, he reprised Worf in Star Trek: Picard, portraying the character as a seasoned warrior who had embraced a path of balance and wisdom.

Denise Crosby (Tasha Yar)

Character: Lieutenant Tasha Yar, the original chief of security aboard the USS Enterprise-D. Tough, no-nonsense, and deeply loyal to her crewmates, she was killed during the first season of TNG in the episode “Skin of Evil,” though she later returned in alternate timeline and guest appearances.

Before Star Trek: Crosby worked as a model and actress in the early 1980s. She appeared in films such as 48 Hrs. (1982) and Trail of the Pink Panther (1982), along with television guest roles, but TNG was her first high-profile recurring role.

After Star Trek: Crosby built a diverse career in film and television, starring in movies like Pet Sematary (1989) and appearing on series including The X-Files, NYPD Blue and Ray Donovan. She also produced and narrated the well-regarded documentaries Trekkies (1997) and Trekkies 2 (2003), exploring the world of Star Trek fandom. Though she left TNG early, she maintained a lasting connection with the franchise and its fan community, returning occasionally in conventions and cameo appearances.

Wil Wheaton (Wesley Crusher)

Character: Wesley Crusher, the gifted son of Dr. Beverly Crusher who often found himself at the center of scientific problem-solving aboard the USS Enterprise-D. Though sometimes controversial with fans, the character represented youthful potential and eventually charted his own unique path beyond Starfleet.

Before Star Trek: Wheaton was a rising young actor in the 1980s, best known for his role as Gordie Lachance in Stand by Me (1986). He also appeared in films such as Toy Soldiers (1991) and in guest roles on television, quickly becoming a familiar face among teen stars of the era.

After Star Trek: Wheaton stepped away from acting full-time in the 1990s, later reinventing himself as a writer, blogger and internet personality. He became a prominent figure in geek culture, frequently writing about his Star Trek experiences and contributing to anthologies, essays and novels. Wheaton also built a second career in voice acting for animation and video games, and he hosted web series like TableTop. In 2022, he made a surprise return to the franchise in Star Trek: Picard’s second season finale, appearing as a Traveler to guide the next generation of explorers. He frequently played a comical version of himself on The Big Bang Theory, portraying Sheldon Cooper’s arch-enemy.

Whoopi Goldberg (Guinan)

Character: Guinan, the enigmatic El-Aurian bartender of Ten Forward aboard the USS Enterprise-D. Known for her wisdom, empathy, and mysterious past, Guinan served as a trusted confidante to Captain Picard and provided perspective that often bridged cultural and moral divides.

Before Star Trek: Goldberg had already become a major star by the mid-1980s. Her one-woman Broadway show led to her breakthrough film role in The Color Purple (1985), earning her an Academy Award nomination. She followed with a string of successful films, quickly establishing herself as one of the era’s most versatile and acclaimed performers.

After Star Trek: Goldberg went on to win the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for Ghost (1990) and starred in box office hits like Sister Act (1992) and its sequel. She became a cultural icon, expanding into producing, stage work and voice acting in projects like Disney’s The Lion King (1994). In later years, she became a longtime co-host of The View while continuing to act. She reprised Guinan in Star Trek: Picard’s second season (2022), reuniting with Patrick Stewart for some of the most heartfelt scenes in the series.

Diana Muldaur (Katherine Pulaski)

Character: Dr. Katherine Pulaski, who replaced Dr. Beverly Crusher as chief medical officer during the second season of Star Trek: The Next Generation. Modeled in part after Dr. McCoy from the original series, Pulaski was more blunt and skeptical, particularly in her early interactions with Data, though she grew to respect him and the crew.

Before Star Trek: Muldaur had an extensive television career beginning in the 1960s. She had already appeared in two episodes of the original Star Trek (Return to Tomorrow and Is There in Truth No Beauty?), and was well known for roles on Mannix, Gunsmoke and Born Free. By the late 1970s and 1980s, she had established herself further with recurring roles on McCloud, Quincy, M.E. and Dallas.

After Star Trek: Muldaur left TNG after one season and returned to her steady career in television, with guest roles across a wide range of shows. Most prominently, she played attorney Rosalind Shays on L.A. Law (1989–1991), a part that earned her Emmy nominations and became one of her most memorable roles. She gradually stepped back from acting in the 1990s and has since lived a more private life away from the spotlight.

John De Lancie

Character: Q, the mischievous and godlike trickster from the Q Continuum, who both tormented and challenged Captain Picard and the Enterprise-D crew throughout Star Trek: The Next Generation. Q’s appearances often forced the crew to confront moral dilemmas, with his relationship with Picard evolving from adversarial to oddly affectionate.

Before Star Trek: De Lancie was an established character actor in the 1970s and 1980s, with recurring roles on soap operas like Days of Our Lives and guest appearances on series such as Magnum, P.I. and Hill Street Blues. He was also active in stage work and voice acting.

After Star Trek: De Lancie reprised Q across the franchise in Deep Space Nine, Voyager and later Lower Decks, becoming one of the most enduring non-crew characters in the Star Trek universe. Beyond Star Trek, he appeared in series like Breaking Bad and lent his distinctive voice to numerous animated series and video games, most famously as Discord in My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic. In 2022, he returned as an older, more reflective Q in Star Trek: Picard’s second season, bringing his decades-long relationship with Picard to an emotional conclusion.