Why Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Is The Best Series In The Franchise
Published May 10, 2026, 5:30 PM EDT
Ben Sherlock, a respected film and television critic, leads the popular YouTube channel I Got Touched at the Cinema. With a background spanning Game Rant, Taste of Cinema, Comic Book Resources, and BabbleTop, Ben brings diverse expertise to Screen Rant. A multi-talented creator, he’s also an indie filmmaker, standup comedian, and School of Rock alum. His latest deep dive explores the evolution of Star Trek on Paramount’s platform.
Paramount’s journey with Star Trek has been a rollercoaster of experimentation. While the studio aimed to build a cohesive universe akin to Marvel’s, early attempts struggled to find their footing. Yet, one series defied expectations: Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. This reboot honored the franchise’s legacy while delivering fresh storytelling, earning a near-perfect 94% on Rotten Tomatoes—a score that, surprisingly, doesn’t reflect its true potential.
The show’s success stems from its commitment to classic Star Trek values. Unlike The Original Series, which faded in later seasons, Strange New Worlds launched strong and maintained momentum from day one. Its episodic structure, reminiscent of the original series’ self-contained adventures, allows endless expansion without feeling rushed—a stark contrast to the condensed arcs of Discovery. With three seasons completed and two more in development, the series’ longevity suggests it could easily surpass its initial run.
What truly elevates Star Trek: Strange New Worlds is its balance of nostalgia and innovation. By focusing on the Enterprise crew’s explorations, it captures the spirit of adventure that defined the franchise’s golden era. The show’s ability to evolve—adding new characters like Pike, Spock, and Number One while respecting the past—proves it’s not just a revival but a natural progression. As fans eagerly await Season 5, the question isn’t whether the show will end, but how it will conclude its epic journey.
Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Outshines Its Predecessors
Captain Kirk with his hands folded in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds
ScreenRant’s editorial team highlights this series as a must-watch for Star Trek enthusiasts. Its blend of quality writing, compelling performances, and faithful homage to the source material cements its place as the franchise’s finest chapter yet.
Future Prospects for the Franchise
With two additional seasons confirmed, the series has room to explore uncharted territories. The episodic format ensures each installment remains accessible, inviting both longtime fans and newcomers to join the voyage. As production continues, anticipation builds for how the story will unfold—and whether it will finally achieve the sustained excellence it deserves.
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