After more than three decades since Star Trek: The Next Generation (TNG) first aired, beloved actors Jonathan Frakes and Brent Spiner have teamed up once again, giving TNG a fresh and much-deserved spotlight in the ever-expanding universe of Star Trek podcasts. This collaboration not only celebrates their iconic roles as Commander William T. Riker and Lieutenant Commander Data but also elevates TNG to a platform on par with other classic Star Trek series such as Deep Space Nine, Voyager, and Enterprise.
Frakes and Spiner’s New Podcast: Dropping Names… And Other Things
Frakes and Spiner recently announced their new podcast titled Dropping Names… And Other Things, also known as “Dropping Names With Brent and Jonny.” The podcast is designed to feature weekly interviews with various guests who share their stories about first encounters that inspired their fandom. Although not exclusively a Star Trek podcast, it naturally embraces the franchise’s legacy, especially the almost 40 years Frakes and Spiner have spent exploring the galaxy aboard the Starship Enterprise.
The inaugural episode is set to feature none other than TNG co-star LeVar Burton, promising fans captivating conversations filled with nostalgia and new insights from the Star Trek universe.
TNG Joins Other Star Trek Series with Iconic Actor-Hosted Podcasts
For years, other Star Trek shows like Deep Space Nine, Voyager, and Enterprise have had podcasts hosted by cast members, giving fans deep dives into episodes and behind-the-scenes insights. With Dropping Names…, Frakes and Spiner finally bring TNG into this celebrated circle, making the series equally represented in the podcast realm.
For instance, The 7th Rule podcast was launched in 2019 by the late Aron Eisenberg and Cirroc Lofton to review Deep Space Nine episodes. After Eisenberg’s passing, the podcast continued and even expanded to cover TNG and The Original Series episodes, featuring guests like Denise Crosby and Walter Koenig. Similarly, The Delta Flyers podcast hosted by Voyager alumni Garrett Wang and Robert Duncan McNeill reviewed their show’s episodes and moved on to DS9 episodes alongside fellow cast members.
Enterprise actors Connor Trinneer and Dominic Keating also entered the podcast space with The Shuttlepod Show, which evolved into The D-Con Chamber, adding more interviews and episode reviews to its repertoire.
Even TNG had representation before Dropping Names…, with Gates McFadden hosting InvestiGates, a podcast offering three seasons of interviews with Star Trek veterans. Now, Frakes and Spiner’s new show puts TNG firmly side-by-side with its sister series in the beloved genre of actor-hosted Star Trek podcasts.
The Rich World of Star Trek Podcasts and Fan Engagement
Star Trek podcasts hosted by actors and fans have played an essential role in keeping the franchise vibrant, relevant, and beloved across generations. With streaming platforms like Paramount+ constantly introducing new Star Trek content, podcasts allow fans to reconnect with classic series from the 1960s through the 2000s, deepening the community experience.
The camaraderie and wit between Jonathan Frakes and Brent Spiner provide a unique appeal to Dropping Names… And Other Things, likely making it a standout among the many Star Trek podcasts available. Their decades of storytelling, humor, and Star Trek adventures promise to captivate both longtime Trekkies and curious newcomers alike.
By including a legendary figure like LeVar Burton as their first guest, the podcast sets a high standard for engaging content that honors Star Trek: The Next Generation and its continuing saga in Star Trek: Picard. Fans can look forward to new stories, fond memories, and insights shared by this iconic cast.
The Enduring Legacy of Star Trek: The Next Generation
Star Trek: The Next Generation remains a cornerstone of the Star Trek franchise, known for its engaging characters, thoughtful storytelling, and exploration of philosophical themes. Its legacy is celebrated through numerous media, and now with Dropping Names… And Other Things, it gains a fresh platform for discussion and fandom.
This podcast not only celebrates the show’s past but also invites listeners to explore the broader cultural impact of Star Trek, its themes of exploration, diversity, and hope for the future—all brought to life by the iconic duo of Frakes and Spiner.
Conclusion
Jonathan Frakes and Brent Spiner’s new podcast, Dropping Names… And Other Things, marks a significant moment for fans of Star Trek: The Next Generation. After years of other Star Trek series having their own actor-hosted podcasts, TNG now proudly joins the ranks, enriched by the charisma and legacy of its two iconic stars. The podcast promises rich conversations, intriguing guest appearances, and a heartfelt tribute to the Star Trek universe.
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