From its earliest concept stages, Star Trek: The Next Generation set out to break new ground, including the intentional addition of a disabled crewmember to the Enterprise-D. Inspired by and named for a real fan, George LaForge, this character was part of a push for greater representation and inclusivity on screen.

This week, The Trek Files welcomes actor and artist Bruce Horak, known to fans as Hemmer from Strange New Worlds. Bruce shares his personal journey as a blind actor stepping into Star Trek’s universe, the impact of authentic representation, and his new documentary Boldly Going, where he paints portraits of people who have overcome significant challenges in their own lives.

Content note:

The historical document featured in this episode contains outdated language and descriptions of disabled individuals. While we do not endorse these terms, we present the full text in the interest of transparency and historical context.

Document and additional references: Memo exchange discussing the inclusion of a disabled crewmember in TNG – October 1986

Support Bruce’s documentary: Boldly Going on Indiegogo

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13-18 Inclusion by Design