Who Could Have Played Jean-Luc Picard if Patrick Stewart Had Not Been Cast?

In the rich tapestry of Star Trek: The Next Generation, one of the most iconic characters is Jean-Luc Picard, portrayed by the legendary Patrick Stewart. But what if fate had taken a different path? Who might have taken up the mantle of Captain Picard if Stewart had not been cast?

Intending to Explore Telespace

Several actors were reportedly considered for the role of Captain Jean-Luc Picard. The casting process was a rigorous and competitive affair with several notable actors vying for the position. Here are some of the names that were in contention:

Burt Reynolds

Burt Reynolds, a well-known and admired actor, was reportedly considered early in the casting process for the role of Jean-Luc Picard. His charismatic presence and understated gravitas would have made him a resounding choice, potentially shaping a different version of one of Star Trek's most beloved captains.

Sidney Poitier

Sidney Poitier, another acclaimed actor and trailblazer for African American actors in Hollywood, was also considered for the role. His dignified and commanding presence would have brought a unique and grounded tone to the character, differing from the more cerebral portrayal offered by Patrick Stewart.

Robert Foxworth

Robert Foxworth, known for his roles in both television and film, was also in the running for the part. His refined acting skills and commanding screen presence would have been an interesting alternative to Stewart's interpretation.

Ronny Cox

Actor Ronny Cox, who later appeared in Thelma and Louise, was another candidate. His rugged and intense style could have provided a stark contrast to the more intellectual and soothing portrayal of Picard by Stewart.

Ultimately, Patrick Stewart’s portrayal became iconic, but the potential of these other actors is fascinating to consider. Their diverse styles and approaches would have added unique dimensions to the character, making it a more complex and multifaceted role.

Paramount's Memos and Casting Decisions

According to Memory Alpha, there was fierce competition for the role. Paramount memos and interviews have confirmed that strong contenders included:

Patrick Bauchaun Mitchell Ryann Barrie Ingham Roy Thinnes Yaphet Kotton Stephen Macht

Some reports suggest that Ronny Cox was also considered, although this hasn’t been officially verified.

Interestingly, Rick Berman, the executive producer, had only one choice in mind: Patrick Stewart. However, Gene Roddenberry, then alive and very involved in the project, wanted Stephen Macht. When Roddenberry and Berman engaged in a fierce debate over the role, Berman eventually won. This outcome, however, was the result of auditions and the surviving memos detail the process.

Gene Roddenberry’s Vision and Fierce Opposition

Gene Roddenberry, the visionary creator of Star Trek, had strong opinions about who should play Commander Riker and, by extension, Captain Picard. Roddenberry disliked "cowboy diplomacy" and was particularly opposed to a bald, cerebral character. His preference for Stephen Macht was rooted in his vision for the character as someone who embodied the spirit of leadership and resilience that he admired.

Still suffering from health issues at the time, Roddenberry often compromised to maintain his creative integrity and financial stability through his involvement in Star Trek: The Next Generation movies. Despite this, his input was significant, and his resistance to Stewart—he admitted Stewart wasn't his ideal choice—demonstrates the importance of his role in the development of the series.

Voices From the Past and Potential Characters

Considering the talented pool of actors, it's intriguing to imagine how they might have portrayed the iconic role of Picard. Here are a few of the more notable figures who might have taken on the mantle:

Yaphet Kotto

Yaphet Kotto, who nabbed one of the most memorable roles as the villainous Louis in Live and Let Die, would have brought a unique menace and gravitas to the role. His presence would have significantly altered the dynamic of the crew, especially as the villainous Maccone's mastermind.

Roy Thinnes

Roy Thinnes, known for his role as Vir Cullan in The Invaders, would have brought a commanding presence and a more dramatic flair to the role. His experience in sci-fi and his ability to portray a tough and resilient character would have been well suited to the leadership and stoic nature of Picard.

Barrie Ingham

Barrie Ingham, whose successful career in England had a modest but solid reception in the United States, might have offered a more philosophical and contemplative approach to the role. His acting style and understanding of the character would have brought a different depth and nuance to the portrayal.

In summary, the role of Jean-Luc Picard was cast with great care and consideration, but the potential for other talented actors to portray the character is both intriguing and thought-provoking. Patrick Stewart’s enduring legacy in the role is undeniable, but the rich tapestry of potential actors considered adds another layer of depth to the story of Star Trek: The Next Generation.