#Strange New Worlds Could Bring Back Khan, But Should They?

Again, I’m not entirely sure what “open to getting our arms” means, but it sounds like showrunners have a thoughtful if cagey plan in place for connecting La’an back to Khan. This is a nerve-wracking decision, to say the least. For one thing, Khan’s character has an extremely intense backstory, as he was originally presented in the episode “Space Seed” as the specially bred product of a major war fought over eugenics. This is serious territory for a Trek story to re-enter, though if it engages with the subject thoughtfully, it could also provide the powerful political commentary the best Trek stories are known for.

The “Star Trek” series also doesn’t have the best track record with reviving Khan, as another “Strange New Worlds” co-showrunner, Alex Kurtzman, knows all too well. The filmmaker has contributed plenty of excellent work to the 21st century “Star Trek” universe, but “Star Trek: Into Darkness,” which he co-wrote, isn’t exactly popular within the franchises’ canon. The film’s attempt to bring back Khan resulted in a reveal that went over poorly with many fans, and Benedict Cumberbatch, for all his talents, was a far cry from Ricardo Montalbán’s vibrant performance.

We’re probably getting ahead of ourselves here. After all, there have been rumors of a Khan re-imagining for years now. “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds” may not end up being everyone’s cup of intergalactic tea, but it’s still an exciting new chapter of “Star Trek” lore. The Paramount+ “Star Trek” universe has already pulled off many geeky miracles, like bringing back Jean-Luc Picard (Patrick Stewart) and creating the franchises’ very first comedic entry in “Star Trek: Lower Decks.” Consider us wary but interested in the “Strange New Worlds” approach to Khan.

“Star Trek: Strange New Worlds” will premiere on Paramount+ on May 5, 2022.