From Borg to Captain: Jeri Ryan's Journey as Seven of Nine in Star Trek

The legacy of Star Trek: Voyager includes unforgettable characters and intricate story arcs, particularly that of Seven of Nine, portrayed by Jeri Ryan. Since joining the series in its fourth season, Ryan has captivated audiences with her character's transformation from a Borg to a human being, forming a compelling dynamic with Captain Janeway that has been widely celebrated. However, the journey to becoming an integral part of the series was not without its challenges. Actress Jeri Ryan faced a significant hurdle during her audition process, feeling uncomfortable with a particular scene that nearly led her to withdraw from the role. The scene was perceived as awkward, prompting Ryan to describe it as cheesy and inappropriate. She remarked that had it been the only material she encountered, she likely would not have considered joining the cast.

Throughout Star Trek: Voyager, Seven of Nine often experienced an overtly sexualized portrayal. Whether it was through her clothing or the character's narrative, criticism arose regarding the focus on appealing to a young male demographic, particularly after the introduction of a female captain in the lead role. Although Seven's character development received more attention in later episodes, an early scene reportedly left a negative impression on many viewers. Ryan’s first audition included a moment from the episode 'Revulsion,' which involved an uncomfortable interaction with Harry Kim.

Ryan shared her thoughts on this episode, stating that it did not resonate well with her, expressing that its predictability and cheesiness impacted her view. She emphasized that had this been the sole representation during her audition, she would have reconsidered her participation. This intended exploration of Seven’s struggle with human emotions ultimately fell flat and did not convey the desired impact.

Reflecting on her career trajectory, Jeri Ryan found renewed appreciation for her character in Star Trek: Picard, where she received critical acclaim for her performance. Although initially not part of the Star Trek: The Next Generation ensemble, her character found a significant role alongside the crew, contributing to their missions and experiences.

Ryan echoed the thoughts of her co-star, Jonathan Frakes, asserting that her work on Picard represented the pinnacle of her portrayal as Seven of Nine, praising the superb writing that accompanied her character in this latest iteration. She noted the remarkable evolution of her character, which transformed from a non-human entity to the commanding officer of the Enterprise, marking a significant evolution in the narrative arc.

Her performances in both series earned her accolades, including a Saturn Award, highlighting a broader recognition of her exceptional work across the Star Trek franchise. Fans can enjoy the entire series of Star Trek: Voyager available for streaming on Paramount+.