Akiva Goldsman’s journey in Hollywood has been a rollercoaster marked by triumphs and struggles. The accomplished screenwriter, who clinched an Academy Award in 2001 for his work on A Beautiful Mind, has also endured disappointment, finding himself nominated for Razzies for screenplays like A Time to Kill and the infamous Batman & Robin. His resume flaunts contributions to blockbuster hits and popular franchises, including The Da Vinci Code, the 1998 version of Lost in Space, and The Divergent Series: Insurgent. He’s penned titles such as I, Robot, I Am Legend, and the more recent The Dark Tower.
Since 2017, Goldsman has immersed himself in the world of Star Trek, taking on the roles of executive producer and writer for several series, including Star Trek: Discovery, Star Trek: Picard, and Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. Additionally, he has directed a handful of episodes, marking his prominent role in the Star Trek universe. Goldsman, a lifelong Trekkie, likely views his involvement with the franchise as a dream realized. However, this engagement is not his initial venture into the Star Trek realm.
In 2009, Goldsman maneuvered his way into a cameo in J.J. Abrams’s Star Trek film, thanks to their friendship. Fans can spot him in a scene featuring the Vulcan tribunal, with Goldsman donning a wig as he plays one of the members overseeing young Spock’s trial. His second cameo came in Star Trek Into Darkness, where he appeared as an admiral, recognizable as the bald individual in the white-chested uniform.
In a 2014 conversation, Goldsman shared insights about his devoted Trekkie status, explaining how his fandom began in Brooklyn, where he would watch Star Trek reruns every night. He fondly recalled attending his first Star Trek convention back in the late 1970s. For him, Star Trek was more than entertainment; it represented an escape and a formative part of his youth.
Goldsman’s connection to Abrams facilitated his cameos; he simply reached out to his friend for a small favor. Reflecting on their long-standing relationship, Goldsman humorously stated that he might have pleaded for the opportunity, emphasizing his enthusiasm for being part of the franchise. He even possesses a bubblegum card featuring his Vulcan council appearance, a testament to his passion.
Interestingly, while Goldsman has been a key player in the Star Trek saga, he is not listed among the producers for the new Starfleet Academy series currently in development. With Star Trek: Discovery and Picard wrapping up, Goldsman is likely channeling his focus into the upcoming seasons of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, set to premiere in early 2025.
