Anson Mount, known for his portrayal of Captain Pike in “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds,” recently revealed an intriguing acting technique he borrowed from none other than the iconic William Shatner. The character evolution from the original 1966 pilot “The Cage,” played by Jeffrey Hunter, to Mount’s more recent interpretation demonstrates a significant shift in leadership style. Hunter’s Pike was marked by a fiery temperament and an approach that relied heavily on emotional intensity. In contrast, Mount’s version brings a refreshing lightness, embodying a captain who prioritizes camaraderie and lighthearted interaction with his crew.
The previous depictions of Captain Pike, including Bruce Greenwood’s turn in the 2009 “Star Trek” film, showcased a more complex and occasionally uncomfortable figure. Mount’s Pike, however, aligns closely with the easygoing and sociable nature of Commander Riker from “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” Riker, famously known for his love of poker and playful banter, shares a kinship with Mount’s portrayal, stepping away from the more serious commanding presence of other notable captains like Archer, Janeway, Sisko, Picard, and Kirk.
In a recent interview, Mount disclosed that he has subtly integrated a hallmark of Shatner’s performance into his own portrayal of Captain Pike. Despite Captain Kirk—played by Paul Wesley—making regular appearances on “Strange New Worlds,” one of Shatner’s physical traits has influenced Mount’s performance. He noticed that Shatner had a unique way of positioning his hand while seated in the captain’s chair. By keeping one hand visible, Shatner was able to convey a wider range of emotions.
Mount described this technique during his conversation, emphasizing the effectiveness of this simple gesture. When seated with his elbow resting on the armrest, his hand remains in view, serving as a tool for emotional expression. While the face can maintain a serene demeanor, subtle movements of the hand can reveal a character’s internal state. A tight grip on the armrest might indicate seriousness, while a gentle touch to the forehead could suggest relief.
Such nuanced gestures may seem minor, but they contribute significantly to the depth of a performance. Shatner’s instinct to incorporate this freedom in gesturing is a testament to his skill as an actor, and it’s clear that Mount has taken this lesson to heart. Fans can anticipate seeing more of these subtle hand movements when Mount returns as Captain Pike in the upcoming third season of “Strange New Worlds,” set to premiere on Paramount+ in 2025. After hearing about this acting technique, it’s likely that devoted Trekkies will keep a closer eye on Mount’s hands during his performances.
