star trek lower deck characters

Star Trek: Lower Decks Characters - Meet the Ensemble

By David JohnsonApril 30, 2026

Welcome, Star Trek enthusiasts, to an in-depth exploration of the engaging and diverse cast of "Star Trek: Lower Decks," the animated comedy series nestled within the expansive Star Trek universe. This show, created by Mike McMahan and streaming on Paramount+, breathes fresh, humorous life into the classic Star Trek formula, introducing a vibrant array of characters that have swiftly captured fans' hearts. Let's dive into the bridge, engine room, and even the holodeck to meet the curious, courageous, and often quirky crew of the USS Cerritos.

At the core of "Star Trek: Lower Decks" are four Ensigns who challenge the traditional Trek formula by emphasizing the personal lives and dysfunctional dynamics of the characters. This isn't your typical Star Trek—it's a labor of love that pays tribute to the franchise's rich history while poking fun at its conventions. Let's delve into the distinctive personas that make up this unconventional crew.

The USS Cerritos Ensigns

Lower Decks focuses on a group ofEnsigns—lower-ranking officers that often get lost in the shuffle of Starfleet's grand adventures. But not here. Here, they take center stage, and their unique personalities drive the story.

an animated woman sitting on top of a chair

an animated image of a woman in blue uniform holding a knife and looking at the camera

"Lower Decks" introduces a new generation of characters without forgetting the legacy that came before them. It's filled with winking nods to previous Star Trek series, yet feels like a unique addition to the franchise. Now, let's meet our ensigns!

Ensign Brad Boimler

Brad Boimler, voiced by Jack Quaid, is the poster child for Starfleet overachievers. He's meticulous, ambitious, and not above bending the rules to climb the ranks. Despite his sometimes underhanded tactics, Boimler's heart is in the right place, making him a relatable character that audiences can grow to love, even at his most cavorter.

a cartoon character with purple hair wearing a red uniform

Boimler's dynamic with his best friend, Ensign Rutherford, is a highlight of the series. Their banter is reminiscent of classic Trek partnerships like Spock and McCoy, or Data and Geordi. Their friendship is tested, strengthened, and tested again throughout the series, providing emotional depth among the laughs.

Ensign Beckett Mariner

Beckett Mariner, played by Tawny Newsome, is a free-spirited, rule-bending Ensign with a secret: her mother is Captain Carol Freeman, the tyrannical and somewhat incompetent commander of the USS Cerritos. This familial tension is a wellspring of humor throughout the series, as Mariner struggles to live up to her mother's expectations and find her own path in Starfleet.

Mariner is a skilled pilot, a natural leader, and a quick thinker—all the qualities of a stellar Starfleet officer. Yet, her laid-back, rebellious attitude sometimes clashes with her duties. Her complex character arc keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting her next surprise (or shamelessly funny moment).

two cartoon characters one with green hair and the other blue

an orange cat wearing glasses and a blue coat standing in front of a metal door

an animated woman pointing at something in the distance

cartoon characters standing in front of a building

The USS Cerritos Command Staff

The ensigns aren't the only compelling characters in "Lower Decks." The show's command staff, while seemingly less central, are equally entertaining and integral to the series.

Populated with eccentric characters of their own, the USS Cerritos' command team isn't afraid to subvert your expectations and provide a healthy dollop of comedy alongside the action.

Lieutenant Shaxs, voiced by Fred Melamed, is the USS Cerritos' formidable (and sometimes frightful) tactical officer. A massive, powerful alien with a penchant for interrogation and a peculiar accent, Shaxs is often the source of laughs and tension alike. His brutal efficiency clashes with the more diplomatic style of the Starfleet officers around him, leading to hilarious misunderstandings and brilliantly awkward moments.

Despite his intimidating exterior, Shaxs has a softer side that occasionally surfaces— sometimes resulting in unexpected camaraderie with the ensigns. Melamed's perfect delivery of the character's deadpan dialogue adds yet another layer to this complex, lovable monster.

CMO Dr. T'Ana

Dr. T'Ana, performed by Gillian Vigman, is the USS Cerritos' Chief Medical Officer—and a humorously neurotic Vulcan in denial about her emotions. Despite her dedication to her patients and her profession, she's prone to outbursts of illogical behavior and RAID fumes-inhaling fits of mania. Her eccentricities and persistent struggle with her emotional side make her an intriguing and entertaining addition to the cast.

Her relationship with the ship's AI, Zora, pairs her with a fellow Vulcan who's open to emotion and mentors her. This partnership adds depth to Dr. T'Ana's character and provides opportunities for some of the series' warmest, most heartfelt moments.

The array of characters in "Star Trek: Lower Decks" brings a fresh and thoroughly entertaining perspective to the Star Trek universe, proving that even the lowest-ranking ensigns can have their day in the spotlight. With its unique blend of humor, heart, and perfect homage to Trek lore, "Lower Decks" stands tall as a worthy addition to the franchise. So, beam aboard and join the crew of the USS Cerritos on their next misadventure—and beyond. Live long and prosper!