FIVE SEASONS WITH MARINER AND THE CERRITOS CREW: Actress Tawny Newsome Reminisces on Her Journey
Interview | December 31, 2024
In an exclusive interview, "Lower Decks" actress Tawny Newsome shares her thoughts on the fifth season's adventures and the impact of the show's narrative on her life.
Spoiler Warning: This interview contains plot details and story points from the fifth season of "Lower Decks," available on Paramount+.
Welcome to Warp Five
In this five-question post-mortem, Newsome reflects on the crew of the U.S.S. Cerritos' mission to clean up subspace rifts and the memorable scenes that unfolded along the way.
*Lower Decks***' five-year mission has drawn to a close as the crew faced a myriad of challenges, including alternate versions of themselves, romantic entanglements, Klingon rites, a cursed starbase, and undercover escapades.
Newsome's character, Lieutenant j.g. Beckett Mariner, experienced it all, from facing an alternate Engineering Mariner in "Fissure Quest" to carving pumpkins with friends.
On "Fissure Quest"
In "Fissure Quest," an alternate Mariner crosses paths with Captain William Boimler's U.S.S. Anaximander, populated by an assortment of "interdimensional castaways." These include T'Pol, Curzon Dax, Elim Garak, numerous Harry Kims, and a EMH Dr. Bashir.
Newsome expressed her delight at acting alongside some of "Lower Decks'" legends: "It was a dream come true. The writers chose some of my favorite characters from throughout canon. It was fantastic to see an alternate version of what a relationship could look like between Garak and Bashir, given the hints in 'Deep Space Nine.' Lily Sloane, Alfre Woodard's character, is a favorite, and it was wonderful to see her again."
On the Series' Objective
Later in the season, in "The New Next Generation," Mariner reflects on the importance of friendship and the crew's abilities. Newsome commends the show for its exploration of friendship and the power it holds: "The show has done a wonderful job of discussing community and friendship in a non-cheesy manner. Community improves your health and stress levels, and it's special that our 22-minute cartoon delves into such human and significant issues."
On the Expansion of Different Alien Cultures
Season five also offered further insight into Orion culture through the Tendi storyline, as well as a reappearance of the Klingon Ma'ah. Newsome noted the series' commitment to presenting diverse alien cultures: "We always work hard in 'Trek' to avoid making cultures monolithic, and 'Lower Decks' has done an excellent job of this, particularly with the Tendi storyline exploring Orion culture."
On Being Insubordinate
In "Of Gods and Angels," Mariner steps up to defend Ensign Olly, demonstrating her growth and willingness to take on more responsibility. Newsome saw similarities between this plotline and her own personal journey: "I resonate with this storyline. I've always been a bit of a rule-breaker, but as I've grown older, I've learned to channel that energy in a more constructive manner."
On the Different Iterations of Mariner
Mariner encountered alternate versions of herself in "Dos Cerritos," providing an opportunity to explore various aspects of her personality. Newsome appreciated the chance to delve deeper into her character: "Seeing these different versions was fascinating, as it allowed us to explore parts of her personality that we might not have otherwise."
Stay tuned for more updates on "Lower Decks" and be sure to follow the official Star Trek social media platforms.
- Newsome spoke about the delightful experience of acting alongside 'Lower Decks'' legends, such as T'Pol and Elim Garak, in the episode "Fissure Quest".
- Regarding the show's exploration of friendship, Newsome praised 'Lower Decks' for discussing community and friendship in a non-cheesy manner, highlighting its significance.
- In the season, 'Lower Decks' offered further insight into Orion culture through the Tendi storyline, emphasizing the series' commitment to presenting diverse alien cultures.
