JONATHAN FRAKES' Shocking Discovery About WIL WHEATON Life Outside of STAR TREK

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Jonathan Frakes (Star Trek: The Next Generation, Picard) joins us this week to take us where no guest has gone before… sharing his experience over three decades in the Star Trek franchise and teasing a special reunion during this new season of Picard. Jonathan talks about his experience playing Riker, working with the one and only Patrick Stewart, and the cast’s reaction to learning about Wil Wheaton’s situation off set. We also talk about handling loss, his credit with Phish, and some hilarious stories from his late great father.
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X #insideofyou #americanpie

[@Grizzlox]

A friend of mine met Frakes at a convention. He said that he didn't talk down to him like "one of the fans" but instead treated him like an uncle treats a favorite nephew. He became an instant superfan that day and considers Frakes to be his favorite actor of all time

[@BranceCrantly]

He just seems like that kind of guy. Great sense of humor. Seeing him behind-the-scenes, or in bloopers, you can just tell he's a fun guy.

[@tennesseecopperhead7874]

I met Franks as well. Very nice guy and really fun to talk to.

[@AJD73]

He sounds like the late JDF in the way he acts to fans

[@brandonochs1372]

I live only 30 mins from John Garman Hertzler Jr, The actor of General Martok, I've met him several times, very great guy and definitely one of my favorite characters from DS9

[@travcollier]

I don't particularly like Frakes directing, and he's just an Ok actor IMO... But damn, I can totally see why folks want to work with him.

[@locutus1126]

They should just give Frakes the keys to the Star Trek franchise. The guy gets it. When you see an episode that he directs, you know it will be great.

[@ckolsen84]

This 100%

[@Krztph1331]

One of the best for sure

[@FlamingoKicker]

Yeah, regrettably that vehicle is in pretty damaged condition now. Not sure how Frakes could revive it.

[@dongee21]

His episodes of Picard season 3 are awesome.

[@FlamingoKicker]

@@dongee21 Seasons One and Two were so gut wrenchingly aweful though I refused to watch Season Three because I knew they would just try and win fans back only to pull the rug out from under us again later.

[@ISBuckley8]

The friendship of the Next Generation cast is one of the most endearing friendships I've seen. I don't know many other shows where all the main cast members are still friends decades later. And Frakes just oozes charisma

[@mrquatch]

It is awesome, isn’t it?

[@protorhinocerator142]

TNG had to be the best ST cast ever. I didn't like Picard at first because the very first thing he did was surrender. What's that? After they de-nonsensed the first season, that show really grew some legs. They had some amazing episodes. Among everyone's favorites was The Inner Light, where Picard learned to play the flute from the inherited memories of a dying planet. That was so good.

[@GaelinW]

Agree. So few casts, especially large casts, really get along together.You can tell by they quality of the episodes they put out as well as the longevity of the series.

[@HariSeldon913]

@@protorhinocerator142 Yes, he surrendered, but they were just planning ahead and setting up the epic, "That'll be the day!" in Yesterday's Enterprise. 😺

[@42ZaphodB42]

Honestly? Many of the shows done from until the 2010's have this where they went 7-8 seasons. When you spend these years together in creative activity, that inevitably leads to forming bonds.

[@erich6860]

I met Will Wheaton in a comic shop some years ago, and the dude stayed until every single one of us got to say hi, take a selfie with him, and he signed everything. I never cared for his character on ST, but as a human, Wheaton is A+ in my book.

[@Incel_81]

That’s how I feel about Vin Deisel. I hate his movies but he cool as hell in real life.

[@hurdygurdyguy1]

Same, hated the Wesley character ("Shut up, Wesley!!") but absolutely loved him when he played himself on Big Bang Theory!

[@waynefiddler3609]

Wesley Crusher- Victim of terrible writing (not the show in general, just for Wesley) Wil Wheaton- Genuinely awesome dude and good actor All together- a waste of a perfectly good Wil Wheaton

[@rodshop5897]

I met Wil when he was on the way into a restroom. He just said "hi" and waved, and that was even more than I would have ever expected. 🤣

[@cropcircler]

WW is a cool dude, but like thousands of other fans I was outraged at ST placing a kid in a sweater at the helm

[@tjfSIM]

What comes across in this is just how protective Frakes, and the rest of the crew, are to Wil. It's obviously a really strong bond that they all have, and I envy that hugely.

[@LostinMIA]

FACTS

[@apk4381]

Its called virtue signalling. The entire world does it now as a way to feel good about themselves. Wake up.

[@Nerd704]

@@apk4381 Not everyone is sociopathic. You might be projecting.

[@1aatlas]

Get a family.

[@LostinMIA]

Who are you to say that troll?

[@james_library]

My wife got me a cameo from Jonathan Frakes because I absolutely love star trek and he's one of my favorite actors and directors on the show. It seemed so genuine and he included some life advice because my wife told him what I wanted to do career wise and it felt so genuine and so human. Just such an unbelievable actor and human being.

[@krodatem]

An absolutely true story: Wil Wheaton heard about a friend of mine's struggle, and he was about to lose his house. My friend established a GoFundMe, Wil posted it to his fans, and my friend had enough money to save his home with enough for him to do some crucial repairs. Wil is one of the greatest humans ever.

[@barrysuss4421]

😂

[@matthewoldnew281]

Wow! By the way in ST i found it unfair, how Picard said to him "shut up, Wesley", though he was seriously in solving a problem...

[@matthewfors114]

@@matthewoldnew281 what

[@KhronicD]

@@matthewfors114 It became a sort of meme in the show. Telling Wesley to shut up. Because even though his character was often smart and able to deal with problems, the rest of the characters always saw him as just a child. Thus he was often told to shut up.

[@matthewfors114]

@@KhronicD oh i know that part of the show, ive seen every episode of TNG at least 7 or 8 times and even having not done a full marathon in about 8 years could probably recite every line of dialog in the episodes during a watch along. like singing along to songs you may not remember the lyrics by themselves but if the song is playing and the singer is singing you are like one of the band joining in. I was asking "what?" as in i had no idea what the guy was saying. take a look at what i mean here.........."""""""i found it unfair, how Picard said to him "shut up, Wesley", though he was seriously in solving a problem..." """"" LOL

[@jasonraines7629]

Oh man, Frakes is a fuckin' GEM. I had the honor and pleasure of working with him for a couple of years when he was directing The Librarians. He made EVERY set fun, he made EVERY person comfortable and he made EVERYONE feel important. The very first one-on-one meeting I had with him (I was doing storyboard art at the time) I walked into his office TERRIFIED -- I didn't want him to know what a huge Trek fan I was. He gestured for me to sit on the little couch that was across from his desk. I did, then he came over and sat by me. He was huge. I was sweating profusely and scared out of my mind. He let loose one of those gigantic smiles of his and we just shot the shit for a good 10 minutes before we even started talking about the show. By the time we did, I felt like I had known him for years and that we were long-lost buddies. That feeling never went away and he never did anything but earn my respect and admiration from that day forward. I know they say "Never meet your heroes, because they'll always disappoint you" but that adage does not apply to Frakes. You think Riker is a cool guy and a great leader? That he has a great sense of humor and a will of steel? That ain't NOTHIN' compared to reality. The real Jonathan Frakes makes Will Riker look like a plebian dick.

[@TheNoiseySpectator]

..... A "Plebian Dick"?

[@robbiegarber898]

The Librarians was awesome. I feel like people are sleeping on Frake's directing abilities. I can't wait to see whatever he's working on next.

[@heatherbellnails6027]

I LOVED the Librarians!

[@dom0]

Please tell me when you sat down you used the Riker manoeuvre?!

[@PiDsPagePrototypes]

As a Cinematographer, I'm jealous Jason! He, Roxanne Dawson, and Amanda Tapping, are all folks I'd love to work for. I'm another who loved The Librarians, both the films and the show. I heard he has the nickname "Two Takes Frakes", which is a telling description of someone who must use rehearsals instead of film stock. Did you ever hear him say the most hated phrase on set, "Still rolling, go again" ??

[@nateputerbaugh5709]

Ive met Frakes and several other actors and bands through my job and visiting cons. He's one of the rare ones that even if it's just 30 seconds in a line of hundreds makes you feel as if there's nothing else in the world he'd rather be doing than spending those 30 seconds with you

[@makeitwithpam2795]

It's a rare quality and one I much admire!

[@kevinslater4126]

The more I learn about the Next Generation cast the more impressed I am about how much they liked each other.

[@ReturnofBenjamin]

Especially considering the drama s**t-storm that was the TOS cast.

[@harryparsons2750]

Best Star Trek series ever.

[@aannddrryyaa]

and that really comes through when we watch the shows.

[@johngleeson9011]

I was glued to the TV every Saturday evening....I remember watching the first few episodes. It was everything I wanted to see, I would say it changed my life and influenced me on so many levels.. Bravo

[@snikrepak]

Last if the real shows. My respect for Ryker only goes up

[@arthouston7361]

How rare is it when you have a series on TV that you still love to watch, and then years later you find out that the people who were playing those characters are just as nice and genuine and warm as you wanted them to be deep inside? When I did public appearances as an air personality, that is exactly what I tried to bring to my fan experience when they would meet me at a show or a place where I was doing an MC gig. I saw other people in the industry who didn’t give a rat’s behind about the folks who made it possible for them to have a nice lifestyle. And yes….. I am old enough to have talked with Gene Roddenberry, and I’m also old enough to remember when Frakes’ wife Genie was everybody’s heartthrob in the “Luke and Laura” years.

[@TheEDFLegacy]

Neat! Can you tell me more your experience with Gene? Heard he's not that great of a guy, unfortunately.

[@arthouston7361]

@@TheEDFLegacy That's right. When he was being creative and funny, he was loveable. Not so much other times. Like many creative men in those days, he had his demons.

[@scottfitzpatrick1939]

100%

[@xx3astmanxx928]

For some reason every single cast member of the next generation puts off this vibe & i love it. I think that’s the magic they’ve been trying to recapture ever since

[@emagotis]

@@xx3astmanxx928 well not everyone, at least for me.

[@LostinMIA]

The STNG cast has to be one of the best ever. The amount of charisma, talent and love these people have is not seen much now days. I wish we could get stuck in a time loop with them so it never ends.

[@dakoitcave817]

@Lostin MIA go watch season 3 of Picard. The entire cast (except Will) is back. And they collectively saved the Star Trek brand with just three episodes. Frakes directing is just was needed. He loves and breathes ST.

[@LostinMIA]

@@dakoitcave817 OMG I didn't know that! Now that makes much more sense. Oh I didn't miss the third season and love it so far. I really hope he can get more opportunities because his episodes have been fabulous! Who ever decided to mix in the First Contact theme at the end was a genius, I teared up the first time I heard it. The Jack at the sink ending similar to Picard with the Borg implants in First Contact was awesome. I pray we see more of Frakes directing even after Picard!

[@JediWitness2]

It's true. I met Marina Sirtis (Deanna Troi) at a convention one time. Was TOTALLY unexpected as there was NO billing even saying that she and several other celebs, including Eric Roberts, were even going to be there. So we were just walking around looking at the Panels and Boom.. there she is sitting there. So we talked with her for about 20 min and she was the NICEST lady. She said that they had the BEST CAST as they're all Still SUPER CLOSE and just LOVED working with each other and are a second family as they make time to get together for various events and outings etc. Later on the wife went to the ladies room and Marina was in there with just the two of them. I was waiting outside for about 20 minutes wondering what was going on.. She came out with a big smile on her face as she grew up watching Next Gen with her dad and she said they were just talking up a storm with each other. she said It was like she was a long lost aunt or something lol. What made it even greater was as mentioned, we had NO IDEA that she was even going to be there. We also spoke to Eric who was just chilling out in a chair as people walked about. Most didn't seem to realize who he was. I looked and turned around to my group and said .. Check it out.. that's Eric Roberts.. What the Hell?! LOL. She we chatted for about ten min and he was also SUPER Cool. I said it was great to meet you to which he replied in kind back and we moved on.

[@LostinMIA]

@@JediWitness2 Amazing story! Thank you so much for sharing that!!! I have been to one Star Trek convention and was able to see Gates McFadden and also get an autographed picture of her back in 1994 here in Miami. I wasn't able to meet her because my girlfriend was getting jealous! lol I listened to her speak, it was great! I also met Robert Picardo at a Comicon years later and talked with him for a few minutes. He was cool. Being a Trek fan is like getting a drug fix when ever we see something cool! I hope it never ends!

[@Derek_Keenan]

@@JediWitness2 the two of them were talking in the bathroom for 20 mins?? were they in neighboring stalls or something? lol

[@annieworroll4373]

They had no idea, but stepped up and gave him a family anyways. It's not just that they did the right thing when nobody was looking, they did the right thing when they didn't even know it was needed. That sort of love and support is their default setting.

[@kjtroj]

If you watch panels where the entire cast is there, it 100% shows, too. Not only towards Wil, but towards each other. They're an amazing group.

[@celiashen5490]

"When they didn't even know it was needed." This right here are the keys to the kingdom.

[@solomonverrico]

Before Elon Musk went and marked his territory all over it, it wasn't rare to see Star Trek actors regardless of whether they were even on the same show come together on various points. The exception being Shatner, who has a big Twitter presence but mostly just uses it to show why he never gets included. Post-Muck...er, Musk, the only one I typically see still addressing serious issues is Tim Russ. Everyone else drifted away or quit (especially Marina Sirtis, who was constantly putting trolls in their place and dealing with creepy incels).

[@abadatha]

I mean, I doubt there are a lot of people on Trek (outside TOS) who weren't that kind of people, and honestly on TOS it was probably only Shatner.

[@bakaichigo]

Well said!

[@keithbassett4988]

Kudos to Frakes and the entire casts of TNG for unknowingly giving this young man the support, understanding, confidence, sense of self worth and love that he wasn't receiving at home. I feel bad for his sister. But it just proves that sometimes being "family" doesn't mean you have to have "blood ties". And seeing Frakes smile is one of my favorite things in the series. He gives a sense of warmth, serenity and everything will be okay. He is a great actor. Great interview.

[@MrDarkweaver]

As a child who was adopted at a very young age, I can tell you that true family has nothing to do with blood, and everything to with care, love and responsibility. My family got me at 6 weeks, and I got a family. Despite the many differences I have with my father, I have never doubted that everything he has done for me, has always been done from what he believed was the best thing for me, even if it ended up not always being the case. I find it impossible to be upset towards anyone for any length of time, who despite making mistakes, always made them for the right reasons. People talk about blood being thicker than water...I'll take the people who chose to raise me, took care of me, loved me and gave me a tremendous opportunity at life over the biological parents who chose to offer me up for adoption. They weren't able or ready to cope with a child, and my parents were. Worked well for both in the end.

[@trucolors9809]

@@MrDarkweaver As an adoptee myself and now an adoptive mother of a beautiful daughter, this warms my heart in so many ways.

[@valerieking5265]

@Keith Bassett, can you explain more about his sister? I didn't know about any of this stuff.

[@supme7558]

They could have done much more ..

[@nukadog1969]

Many child prodigies have tortured, sometimes narcissistic, parents, taking credit for their children's performance, and then, in private, destroying said child for perceived slights. Wil is not alone, and he has my deepest empathy.

[@rolandmiller5456]

Yeah some of these clowns that are down Auto reads stories about people like Judy Garland and many others in Hollywood about what happened to them especially when their parents got involved.

[@nukadog1969]

@@user-pr2up4zo6w Friend...I never compare trauma because that's a foolish, self-deceiving situation. That said, I was raised by a clinical sociopath (APD) and my mother is cluster-b, narcissist heavy. So? Did I win something? Especially for having no legal troubles? Ask MY kids the horrors I visited on them before I got better...my youngest has never had me hit her...my eldest maybe a spanking twice...but my temper and my anger were more than sufficient. Not trying to be a jerk here, but trauma comparisons are lame as hell.

[@LordSesshaku]

I love Jonathan Frakes work on Next Generation. His performance as William Riker is so charismatic and such a great character for any kid growing up.

[@ReglazeRX]

The womanizing!

[@andytay5507]

By njj NJvpy

[@Visceralreality]

@@ReglazeRX Not truly, not like Kirk.

[@billfoster5257]

The blind shaming!

[@billcox8870]

And Thomas Riker

[@MW-bv3wu]

I've read some of Weaton's work and know that he really admires and respects the people he worked with on Star Trek. It's lovely to hear Frakes reciprocating that.

[@Ninja-Hayate]

Jonathan Frakes was more of a big brother to Wil than his own brother, Gates McFadden was a real mother to Wil than his own, and Sir Patrick Stewart was more of a father to Wil watching TNG as a kid growing up, I'm almost 43 now. My heart got heavy just listening to Wil talk about how his parents treated Wil. His TNG family will always be his true family. We all love you Wil Wheaton!

[@moralityisnotsubjective5]

He IS the oldest child in his family.

[@jameswalter3136]

What are they talking about regarding Will and his family?

[@TheoRae8289]

@@jameswalter3136 Wil was abused growing up, and his parents basically couldn't see their child past the money.

[@rgw5991]

what happned to will weaten?

[@charliewaters5289]

You mean his "Emotional Abuse"? Being "forced" in to acting? Is this what we are talking about?

[@trevormccook2647]

My dad breifly met Jonathan Frakes at a bus stop in NYC once. My dad was pretty starstruck because he was a huge trek fan but Frakes was super chill and friendly towards him

[@BranceCrantly]

He did a good job not speaking the full of his mind on Wil's parents. You could tell he was choosing his words carefully.

[@jaymike3302]

Or maybe it's because there's no evidence of abuse. And Wheaton is the type to enjoy playing the 'victim' card.

[@parabot2]

@@jaymike3302 Wheatons past blog posts, as an adult contradict what he is now claiming . The guy is drumming up drama to remain in the limelight.

[@BranceCrantly]

@@jaymike3302 Ok.

[@bostonrailfan2427]

@@parabot2 and if there was actual abuse and not him trying to play the victim why hasn’t there been corroboration from anyone else?

[@eugenegrewing2587]

@@jaymike3302 victim, blaming, huh? Classy.

[@Rivercat0338]

I worked with Wil briefly a few years ago and he and his wife were some of the loveliest people I have ever met.

[@kevinmoynihan92]

Kevin moynihan invites Will wheaton for a chat me as a fan s.t.Picard and s.t.n.g have will Wheaton come to my house Avalon killeagh belgooly co cork in April 2023 and August 2023 23/8/23 Kevin moynihan 32nd birthday

[@Roadsurfer2k11]

Isn't he a network admin or desktop support? Read that somewhere, probably some article about actors working order jobs

[@Rivercat0338]

@@Roadsurfer2k11 Not sure about that. He does a lot of writing.

[@themoxcast]

Frakes dropping F-bombs is the most natural speech I have ever heard. I always expected it to fall out of Riker's mouth.

[@kurtsnyder4752]

Nah, by Trek's time, profanity had just about died. Kirk and Spock barely knew any "cuss" words. 50,60 years later Riker might have to consult a computer to find some, maybe from a " classic" Jacqueline Susan work from the 20+h century.

[@Nasfelia]

@@kurtsnyder4752 Well, early in the TNG, Picard would often use "merde", which is French for "shit"...

[@tayzer22]

I don't trust people who don't swear, at least a little.

[@thomaswedge42]

@@kurtsnyder4752 Kirk sure knew how to swear just look at the original TOS movies "That green-blooded son of a bitch", "I ought to knock you on your goddamn ass!", "That Klingon bastard killed my son" were all said (sometimes multiple times in the case of "Klingon bastard"), even on the original series show Kirk says "Jackass" and "Let's get the Hell out of here." A lot of people just think about the Spock and Kirk scenes in Star Trek: IV The Voyage Home (which were played for comedy), forgetting that some of the swearing I mentioned above came from before Star Trek IV. In Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan and Star Trek III: The Search for Spock and continued in Star Trek V: The Final Frontier and Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country despite the scenes in The Voyage Home, if anything Star Trek IV is incorrect. It's just that US TV censors restricted the use of swearing, unlike the movies and streaming who don't have to obey US guidelines, it was the same in the TNG films where they were able to get away with Shit and Bullshit because it wasn't on TV.

[@Tulpen23]

I was surprised at how cathartic it was to hear him do so too

[@moretoknowshow1887]

Frakes reminds me of that cool uncle who would probably buy you beer, but have a chat with you regarding it before you drank it. Just a good dude whos great with the fans...

[@raywalsh9152]

And freely drops F-bombs without remorse! Verbs, nouns, adjectives, adverbs ... most versatile word ever! Best uncle ever!

[@GreyHulk2156]

Well, as Wil said, he probably USED to be a cool uncle. ;P

[@cptairwolf]

The entire cast of the next generation created such an amazing familial bond to one another and it's that sort of chemistry that the camera captures and makes that series just magical in a way that will never be surmounted

[@warptek]

I remember Frakes had me rolling at a convention in NYC. He has natural comedic ability and just lights up a room with his personality.

[@abadstroller]

I hadn't realized how much I needed to hear Frakes swear so easily and proficiently until today. 🖖

[@constantincatterfeld2038]

Actually, I don't like that at all. Riker wwouldn't do that. That's bad writing.

[@HowIDoItFaM]

Hearing Sir Patrick Stewart on American Dad always trips me out..

[@sekhmara8590]

He’s much more relatable to me now, lol.

[@bryansans2564]

same lol!

[@GoldenOwlEvents]

I was thinking about that too. It makes me happy

[@jonathanschultesdulcimer]

I had heard stories of Wil & Gates calling each other "space mom and space son" for years, and now of course stories of his past come to light & considering Frakes a father figure coming out not that long ago. All that into consideration, watching one of the latest "Ready Room" shows with Wil, Patrick and Gates. Hearing them use their nicknames really put a lot into perspective. Those actors from a TV show that ended nearly 30 years ago have a bond tighter than most real families.

[@theresejohansen1675]

check out the podcast GatesMcfadden investigates, the one with Will Wheaton is so great!

[@vanmoody]

They were right about how great Will is on the Ready Room. His love and passion for Star Trek is very genuine and he gets you excited about what they are talking about.

[@voyeurangel]

They have a family group text

[@shanenokes1170]

@@vanmoody People think it's a put on, but he genuinely is that excited to have Trek back and be part of it in any way.

[@odiedodieuk]

I want to like WW but he seems like such a douche.

[@irishh3llkat185]

My son and I have met both Wil and Jonathan at a Comicon. Both fantastic people! Very down to earth, respectful to the fans, very genuine people. I am a Star Trek fan and have loved them for those roles, as well as many others.

[@greyknight627]

Will, respectful to the fans, except when he tells them their business about what they should be liking with current gen Kurtzman Trek.

[@bluekitty3731]

It breaks my heart that WW wasn't able to reach out to people that obviously loved him and would of helped him as he struggled with being in a abusive position with his parents. But thats what abuser do, they isolate and shame and gaslight their victims so breaking away is so damn difficult. Glad WW is open about what happened to him and maybe someone hearing that will be able to break that pattern of abuse.

[@davidthedeaf]

Nope. Hearing about someone in Hollywood’s story will not do a thing for a child or teen or young adult child of abusive parents. My dorm roommate’s parents were forcing him to sleep on the sofa at home, taking his SSI money, going on vacations with his money and forcing him to stay home to watch the dog, yelled at him, punished him like a little bad kid when he wanted independence, made excuses for suddenly removing all his money without his awareness like emergency need to pay their bills, etc. I knew he was abused somewhat, but not all this bad until he told his pastor when asked flat out if he wanted to kill himself that he had a plan for suicide. He would not leave without convincing until then because of the gaslighting and fear mongering. He was tightly watched and controlled and only escaped because of Christians lying to say it was just a Bible study when really it was intervention.

[@clairefitzpatrick7183]

😦That's absolutely disturbing. Parents should look after their children and treat them as precious babies. What the hell?

[@obediahpolkinghorniii564]

Agreed. I hope his story will help other victims.

[@IonTheSkyy]

Would've

[@debk6161]

My siblings and I had horribly abusive parents who left each of us with scars both inside and out. Which is why I never told them about any of my achievements at school. I never wanted them to show up to bask in my glory because they would have taken credit. From an early age I had a suicide escape plan, too, but was too young at age 10 to know what I was doing, so I failed. Naturally, I never told anyone about it at the time because I would have been beaten even worse for it. There are a lot of monsters out there who abuse their children. A half century later, I am grateful I don’t have to deal with mine anymore.

[@mikalmos369]

An absolutely wonderful love letter to Will Wheaton whom more than definitely deserves it... He is often heard saying that Star Trek is family... with this interview with Jonathan Frakes certainly proving it.

[@bostonrailfan2427]

and the fact that he happens to be promoting a show that is airing on a network whom he has to work with plays zero part of these overly glowing recollections i’m sure…

[@Mxyzptlksac]

He’s talking about Wil like a proud dad. ❤

[@rogerforsberg3910]

At approx 1:02 Frakes uses the descriptors, "copacetic" and "hunky-dory." Anyone who has those words/expressions in his diction is jake with me!

[@RQuinton79]

I absolutely love that he wasn’t ignored or treated poorly by the cast. That Wil has been able to speak about horrible traumas he’s been through, yet can still look back and say, “that part was good. These people were good people.” Not having at least something positive makes healing so much harder to get through. I was emotionally and physically abused by my father and nobody had any clue whatsoever until I had an emotional meltdown in middle school/jr. high. I mean full on, ambulance hand to come and take me to the mental hospital for nearly three weeks. When I eventually did get back to school pretty much every person, student and teacher, told me they had no idea or they would have helped. And to this day, I actually believe that most of those people were being sincere. I went to a smaller school, graduated with 57 people. I was never popular, but I had two good friends and I would say I got along with everyone else. I knew everyone, worked on projects together, that type of thing. Nobody knew about wha I was going through because I didn’t want anyone to know. And the best way to do that is just blend in, no matter how much you were hurting that day, you put on your happy mask and make it through the day. Being the student that never talks is not blending in. And that’s how you survive. And fortunately, I too can look back and find people and experiences that I can say “these here were good experiences with good people.

[@raywalsh9152]

So sorry you had to experience that. Your story really struck a chord. I went to a very small school. It was K-12 but affiliated with a baptist church. We had 30 in our graduating class. I had close friends. And most other students would have considered, and did consider, me friendly. But my homelife sucked ass. Physical and sexual abuse. And there were days I would come to school and just not want to socialize, or be friendly, in any way. But, I was the funny guy. So, as long as I was entertaining everyone, I was cool. On those days that I didn't feel like being funny. I was just a dick. Now, at 58, I go dick right from the jump. Learned the hard way. Gonna get there eventually. Might as well get it over with.

[@MH-zg5yw]

Don't believe anything Wil Wheaton says.

[@marcreeves5980]

@@MH-zg5yw Amen, he's full of shit

[@pt29999]

@@MH-zg5yw this. If he was bullied and treated so badly, you would think he would try to treat others better but he is a bully also.

[@akfreed6949]

I don't get anyone would have a disliking of him as a character . As an old Trekker I loved the "new" TREK show . Live long and party .🖖

[@JoshSweetvale]

It's weird to have a hectic TV production be a _stabilizing_ influence on one's daily life. Kudos to cast (and the ever-invisible crew).

[@djay6651]

I think in that respect, it's like when I was active Army. The job itself might be hectic and unpredictable, but the Soldiers you work with, and sometimes have been with for years, you know you can count on them and that they'll keep you stable no matter what comea down the pike. That's how the cast was for him, I'd reckon. Rocks of stability in a field full of wind.

[@tonyrandall4364]

Threw me off when Frakes swore haha. I had read that Weaton had a rough go of it as a kid. It's what made his character in "Stand By You" so authentic. Rosenbaum has such a cool room to have these podcasts.

[@Spooky_515]

Stand By Me lol

[@kimoandrews5802]

@@Spooky_515 You stand by me?

[@JustGigi319]

@@kimoandrews5802 no, that's the name of the movie, NOT "Stand By You"

[@kimoandrews5802]

@@JustGigi319 the movie is called NOT “Stand by You”? I’m not familiar with it.

[@mirgill1]

To hear the voice of Xanatos cursing is so cool and refreshing!!! Shout out to Jonathan!!

[@ryanmussell739]

Here looking for gargoyle fans.

[@kurtsnyder4752]

​@@ryanmussell739Need a Gargoyles movie with as much of the original voices, Rest in Peace Kevin Conroy.

[@eamonndeane587]

@@ryanmussell739 Right here. "Revenge is a SUCKER'S Game..."

[@scoobydoo5439]

Saw Johnathan at a convention here in San Diego, and I have to say of all the guests that I have seen at these Star Trek conventions, he by far was the funniest most relaxed presenter I have seen.

[@yellowblanka6058]

Jonathan Frakes has always seemed like such a genuine, likeable guy, which is rare in Hollywood. He seems like he would put anybody at ease.

[@teebob21]

I've always loved TNG for my own reasons, and loved the cast for who they have shown themselves to be off air....but knowing that despite the script and the dialogue saying "Shut up, Wesley", the cast was willing to say "We love you, Wil" in their own way....just makes me love Mr. Frakes and Sir Patrick and the rest of them all the more. Thank you for the interview, Number One.

[@JoshSweetvale]

To be fair, Wesley was a nuanced character. He _was_ overeager because he was smart _and_ a neurotic teenager. He could be charming and annoying at times. The fans and scripts at the time just leaned a little too much in the latter direction.

[@teebob21]

@@JoshSweetvale Oh completely fair. The writing for Wesley (the character) did Wil Wheaton (the person & actor) a massive disservice.

[@Hjominbonrun]

I never realised how much Frakes carried the TNG show until I saw him in Picard season 3. Now I realise how great he was.

[@carolinehirst4921]

He does have presence and his scenes with Patrick Stewart are always great.

[@joxyjoxyjoxy1]

I like Frakes as much as the next guy, but nobody carries Jean Luc Picard.

[@CarlosRodriguez-cj8oo]

It’s not “carrying” it’s balance. Picard drank his Earl Gray with us little obnoxious pinky dangling…and Riker was the kind of guy who might fart and say, I hope that didn’t ruin the whole “tea” experience for you!

[@paulfromperth5713]

I have such fond memories of The Next Generation. If you line up all the good to great episodes of the Next Gen and put them up against the other Trek shows…The Next Generation is the best, without a doubt 👌

[@Slamit88]

Agree Totally Paul & have Always felt that"Voyager" WAS a STRONG 2nd!!👊🔥

[@DarkElfofVulcan]

I love how Frakes doesn't dwell on the tragedy, and builds up Wheaton's good points rather than letting him even tangentially be defined by what his parents did to him.

[@johnnywoodmusic]

Phuck Will's parents. he's kicking ass now.

[@ernestmac13]

That same process is what helps survivors move past our experiences; as being focused on the past keeps you stuck in the past unable to focus on the here and now. This is why I don't like it when the media refers to survivors of abuse, of crime, some major illness, etc, refer.to.individuals as victims. Johnathan sees Wil as a survivor rather than a victim; and that makes all the difference in the world.

[@dannicatzer305]

What did they do to him..

[@hoborock007]

​@@dannicatzer305 ??

[@dannicatzer305]

@@hoborock007 "be defined by what his parents did to him" What did they do to him..?

[@JimsEquipmentShed]

“You used to be cool!” If I was Jonathan, I’d make bumper stickers!

[@CyberBeep_kenshi]

Hahahaha

[@HellcatM]

I met Jonathan Frakes at Silo which used to be in Hollywood. He was playing the electronic drums, smiling and having a great time. My friend and I went up to him and he was so kind, talking to us, gave us autographs. When we left he went back to playing the drums, it was a great moment!

[@moedeluca2318]

All the actors of TNG feel like they were/are my extended family. I can just sense how regular and special they are... and the closeness they share with each other. There were many a nights when things in my life could have been going a LOT better - but when I tuned into ST: TNG - all became better for that hour or so. Jonathan Frakes, Wil Wheaton, they are studs through and through.

[@dh2032]

they all had back stories, like there own special power talent something, and as episodes plots develop, they came in to play,

[@captainzappbrannagan]

I think JF is an amazing director and love seeing Rikker back in Piccard. He got a very unlucky situation with Thunderbirds that no-one could have predicted. It was actually very well directed and a movie my kids loved. The hard-core original series people didn't like any change from origins, and new people thought it would be a startrek first contact with serious themes and more adult nature, but the movie targeted around early teen age whom it fulfilled very well.

[@fergusof]

Always liked Wil on Star Trek. Seemed like a nice kid. Always loved his first foray into the Star Trek world where he meets Patrick Stewart's character. He was absolutely overjoyed just being there.

[@alimfuzzy]

Wil Wheaton is now older than Patrick Stewart when he first started TNG.... he must be a vampire.

[@ryangossett8211]

Mind Blown!

[@kwaty]

Either that or Patrick Stewart came out of the womb at 60years old!

[@gottfriedosterbach3907]

No, Sir, he was born dignified.

[@kwaty]

@@gottfriedosterbach3907 can’t disagree, but my theory remains.

[@Anthony-ot8vl]

Watch Excalibur. Patrick Stewart always looked like that.

[@davidbush9274]

I love the Trek universe to a point. I only really go as far as the original series and the next generation. It is the cast of the next generation that makes me feel great about being a fan. These are good people. No back biting. No petty ego wars.

[@rex290]

One of the things I appreciate more and more over the years.

[@andrewmalenda199]

DS9 cast is amazing. The DS9 documentary is incredible.

[@rbarnes4076]

I find the cast of The Next Generation to be consistently great in their roles. Very memorable show.. which to me is the hallmark of greatness. It makes a lasting impression.

[@holyashbringer9923]

Jonathan Franks is a good actor and I love how he directed Star Trek first contact

[@Valen-xu2wy]

True. I thought it was really good in the cinema. Great soundtrack aswel.

[@TWCobra]

@@Valen-xu2wy Best of the bunch. Great movie.

[@tylerwinkle323]

the only good tng movie

[@davekiddie4467]

Except when he sold out narrating that bad alien autopsy video.

[@shezwood9770]

Loved that movie. He did a great job.

[@billyashley907]

I really like Jonathan Frakes in every interview I've ever seen him on. He seems so well read yet down to earth and real. I hope I get to meet him some day.

[@RageUnchained]

Interactions like this are why I’m glad that Jonathan still directs. We need more men like Jonathan Frakes in Hollywood.

[@ZesPak]

A gold nugget is in the bloopers of The Orville, where Seth (you know, the PRODUCER) stumbles his line and you hear Frakes (directing that episode) yelling on the set: OH NO YOU DON'T

[@scottdettmar]

It's so nice to hear people speak well of other people.

[@Voorhees-Jason]

I had met Sir Patrick Stewart at comic con in 2019 got his autograph and such. I met Brent Spiner in 2021 promoting his book at the same time I was promoting my book. Both are amazing people. I now hope to meet more of the cast members. Frakes and Wil I would love to meet someday!

[@TheNoiseySpectator]

What was Spiner's book about? Another autobiography from someone who's face is well known, but whom the public knows nothing of their true character?

[@lyndarogers222]

Maybe off topic, but I absolutely loved Johnathan Frakes work on Beyond Belief: Fact Or Fiction. He did an outstanding job! Loved the quips he gave at the end of each story!😂 The set was decorated awesome! I remember watching it back in the 90s with my mom when it first aired on Fox channel 5. So wish they would bring it back in syndication. 😊

[@jm7804]

I binge watched those shows last year on whatever streaming service they are on. Great fun still.

[@seanburke997]

I absolutely love how, apparently, the entire TNG cast are all awesome human beings

[@wilgar]

Thank you Jonathon for sharing your glowing praise of Wil Wheaton! It's one thing to know that you like and admire someone....it's another thing to hear the sincerity in your voice as you tell the stories!

[@adndgirl]

Jonathan Frakes is a very good man. I met him once and it seems to me that he went out of his way to be nice. And so is Wil. He and his wife Anne are just amazing. I've met them a few times on a cruise where they were guests, but they were just like the rest of us. Good people!

[@wadafuttshowprolem7998]

Frakes seriously needs to do an Orson Welles biopic or movie about his mid-later years in the industry; Homie looks just like him.

[@kevinlents9545]

Uh... minus about 200lbs, tho.

[@jamesalexander5623]

@@kevinlents9545 It's always easier to Pad Up than Slim Down .... See : Christian Bale.

[@williamstephenjackson6420]

Met Johnathan Frakes at an event a few years back. He is a great fellow!

[@joeschmo622]

I remember Jonathan's cameos in "Leverage" and "Castle", and practically giggled like a schoolgril seeing each, as they were both unexpected little treats. And awesome work as a director, too, as pretty much all the great eps were directed by him, and pretty much all the eps directed by him were great.

[@Bookaholic23]

Don't forget he was also a bad guy on an episode of Criminal Minds! As was WW!

[@blankspace178]

I still live in fear of the day Jonathan Frakes appears from around a corner saying "it's not true, none of it, a team of writers made you up and scripted your life into existence".

[@pigs18]

Not this time!

[@KRAFTWERK2K6]

It's completely fabricated. We made it up.

[@joshallen128]

Reminds me of the Stanley parable

[@justincoleman3805]

Just say “there are four lights.”

[@SvendleBerries]

(Jonathan Frakes appears from the shadows) "...Whats the right tip?"

[@PondLeHockey1234]

Hearing Commander River cuss is giving me funny feelings. Like when we used to climb the rope in gym class.

[@dglesterhardunkichud4017]

Commander River needs his mouth washed out with soap.

[@rifelaw]

"You used to be cool." That's the kind of thing my kids used to say to me, but now they've gotten to ages where THEY'RE the ones who used to be cool.

[@HariSeldon913]

Hey, he almost got Daisy Duke to marry him.

[@melissakennedy5897]

Lol. Awesome

[@EmlynBoyle]

Jonathan Frakes always came across as a really cool guy, who makes working on a show/film fun and treats his fellow cast/crew with respect.

[@kevyak]

He is on the credits of all 4 Star Treck shows on Paramount usually as director

[@freefaller003]

I think this is the first time I've ever heard Frakes casually swear - and it makes me very happy for some reason

[@Jujudeze22]

Michael these podcasts are phenomenal, I’m in my 40’s and watched Star Trek NG every weekend in my college dormitory lounge with groups of 18-21 year olds in the 90’s. I watched Buffy and Hercules, Charmed and Supernatural and Smalleville the list goes on and on. There was a lot of sitcoms and reality shows or Law and Order style shows, no streaming services, and storytelling hour long programs was considered nerd stuff. Now it’s different since the Sopranos and serialized. I rambled but listening to Jonathan Frakes talking to you just blows my mind. Thank you.

[@fn-2187bb8]

My best memories of college, are watching tng in the dorm lounge.

[@RogueFamilySmithers]

I gained a major respect for Will Wheaton when he became a recurring cast member on TBBT and played into all the jokes and storylines about him and Shelton'd vendetta against him. It showed that he is a light hearted man that is willing to go the extra mile to make sure the fans get as much enjoyment as possible. Like many child actors, he truly has a unique perspective of life and the world around us all.

[@zybch]

How could one respect ANYONE that had ANYTHING to do with that dreadful show.

[@greasebob]

@@zybch The show was hilarious in the first several seasons, dont be silly.

[@greyknight627]

@@greasebob It's really not.

[@greasebob]

@@greyknight627 I was/am a geek/nerd that grew up int eh , and they hit many things right on the head. Im not afraid to laugh at myself either. It was a funny show, at least until the last couple seasons where it became more sentimental.

[@onnoman]

Will Wheaton is for me one of my favorite actors in Star Trek, because he is a kid that is growing in the show. You watch to the show as a kid, and imagine yourself a life like Wesley Crusher.

[@howardsung108]

Ive bumped into Wheaton many times over the years at cons. Him just walking around not signing autographs and he is about the coolest dude. Always has time to chat and take pix. Not fake at all.

[@allisonwalker4978]

That makes his role on BBT playing a different, jerk version of himself even funnier 😄

[@edp3202]

Wil felt sorry for River Phoenix cause RP's home life was worse than his.

[@kingstewy]

That's only if you agree with him. Have a differing political opinion than him, and he is not a pleasant person if the internet is to be believed.

[@GameTimeWhy]

​@@kingstewy in what way?

[@rogueally7993]

@@GameTimeWhy He doesn’t take people’s shit and is liberal with the block function. Pretty standard boundary-setting behavior that people don’t like because they feel the they should be able to say whatever they want to a public figure who’s active on social media. I follow him on FB, and I’ve never seen him give out anything other than a well-deserved set down and blocking.

[@girlcheck]

We're all products of our childhood. I grew up in an abusive home and often wonder what my life would be if not for that. I do all I can to have empathy for my parents knowing they had many great hardships in their childhood that were over and above mine. My father grew up in mining camps running crews of men by age 13 (this was at the time when canaries were taken down into the mines as a warning of air quality. My grandfather beat my father so badly once when he was seventeen, he almost died). My mother, a poor bohemian farm girl in Nebraska, lived through the dust bowl. She was an emotional child and cried a lot. My grandmother didn't know what to do with her so she would lock her in the cupboard. My grandfather was an alcoholic. My grandmother attempted to hang herself in the pantry in front of my mother and her sisters around the age of 8. My mother recalls incidents of my grandmother chasing my grandfather around the 3 room farm house; built by my grandfather, with a knife. Again, I try to have empathy. Every one of my siblings and I suffer from a form of depression. Will wouldn't be who he is if not for that also, sad as it may be. We can only right the wrong by breaking the chain and being an advocate and support for others.

[@vonakenyon7981]

Many psychiatrists have said that if it wasn't for parents they would be out of business. I too was raised in an abusive house (couldn't call it a home). My sister and I were lucky. Our grandmother was helping support our 'family'. When she found out we were being beaten she not only told my parents that she would report my father to the police but she would also speak to my father's boss and would cut off the money. He never touched us after that. In a way it got worse because he would lecture me for hours about how worthless I was but I already knew he was the kind of 'man' who enjoyed beating up on little girls so I never believed a word he said.

[@luna-p]

​@@vonakenyon7981 Love those lectures. Like, you could have just had an abortion and saved us both the trouble.

[@girlcheck]

@@vonakenyon7981 Thank you ❤️ You and I not only have the gift of truth we can also give the gift of forgiveness if for no one else but ourselves.

[@packgrog]

Back in the day, I was ambivalent about Ryker, but holy shit is Frakes a treasure. What a wonderful man!

[@celebrityrog]

Jonathan is something else. I never really cared for Star Trek, but I liked him in other things, and just hearing him talk is entertaining.

[@christophallen8859]

Hearing Riker drop F bombs like photon torpedos brings a smile to my face.

[@billr3053]

I could have done without those.

[@truthfilterforyoutube8218]

Wow I've never seen a better example of " Talking around an issue", without ever revealing what the issue was !

[@jasonlane1528]

There's GOT to be a clip of Frakes saying "Make it fuckin' so!"

[@plasticfrank]

I'm glad that Wil has a family that loves him even if it isn't his parents.

[@vic5015]

What did Wil's parents do to him?

[@docsavage8640]

Turned him into the a-hole he is today

[@johngudmundson5020]

That he had family problems may explain why he can be such an unfriendly and nasty person at conventions

[@jaymike3302]

Wheaton is the type to enjoy being a 'victim'...so I can't trust his accusations.

[@Bale4Bond]

And Will loves shilling for the terrible new Star Trek monstrosities..

[@captjames19]

Frakes and Wheaton are such genuinely kind people ♥️

[@Sunglare1]

If you believe that then you werent following Will on twitter around 2014 to 2016. He was shitting on gamers and nerd culture like there was no tomorrow.

[@666chew]

After watching this I have to remark that Jonathan Frakes is one of the "coolest" people I've seen. So down to earth and refreshing to listen to. He'd make for a great villain (going against type). The nicest people always do the best bad guy roles.

[@ganglydave1036]

Totally heartwarming. So down to earth guy speaking warmly about another guy

[@christophergood134]

To hear Jonathan Frakes swear up a storm is amazing. Such an amazing person, so open and happy to talk to people.

[@PhilG999]

I watched TOS as a kid (when it was first aired) and have been hooked ever since! Some of the spin-offs are less than stellar but I am watching "Picard" S3 now and the magic, the Chemistry between all of them is astounding! They share a bond that many of us will never experience! Live long and prosper, all!

[@ModelsExInferis]

Yes! My Mum and I were just saying this yesterday, that the magic that was there in the early 1990's is still there. I wish we could get the cast of TNG do a big convention here like they do there, Trekkers here would flock to it!

[@charlesstokes6138]

Same here have seen damn near every episode it’s on the BBC in the daytime I watch while working from home

[@Dezzasheep]

I wasn't prepared for Riker f-bombs within 10 seconds.

[@angelbangtana9885]

Me neither. It was right in the childhood

[@ryanlee6042]

Same..... Lol

[@Maestro47]

I have never heard him ever ever say the f word. What a scramble on my brain.

[@keittkatranch5167]

Same here . Hope he doesn't do that at conventions when there are kids in the audience.

[@markjohnson9402]

Yeah so disappointing. Thought he was a clean cut guy, like Tom Selleck. Smh !

[@Suburp212]

Frakes is getting younger every year. Well done.

[@JL-is9rg]

I loved this. And it's why I like the saying about always be kind because you have no idea what someone else might be going through.

[@lilymack4028]

Having come from a "messed-up" family (maybe like Will) I can atest to what I learned from ST & STNG about relatioships & family. Can't say I accomplished my goals, but I learned enough to be a better parent than what I had, become a RN, fall in love & generally interact with others. We create our own families when we must & STNG helped me.

[@codyj9983]

Will Wheaton gives us a real and tangible example of the Star Trek legacy of strength through compassion and empathy and an overall better humanity and what we can accomplish and overcome by sharing his life story.

[@LeaveChildrenAlone]

Watch the convention video where Wil talks to the girl about bullying. He spoke with such elegance and human compassion that outside of Frakes, should have had his own arc show like Picard is doing now. I want to know what influence he has had being a traveler and how he evolved from the kid who dropped starfleet altogether and went a different path with no question about it.

[@All-Fur-Coat_No-Trousers]

Frakes seems like an authentically decent human being. I'd love to meet him

[@wompa70]

I’m on the Star Trek Cruise right now. There are cast members from most of the shows here. They’re all super nice.

[@markdrake3677]

My daughter-in-law met him at Comic Con in New Orleans 3 months ago and she told him about what a fan I am of his directing work and of Star Trek,plus what I am going thru with cancer,and he put a great personalized message to me on the autographed pic she got for me. Total class act,and my daughter-in-law said he makes each fan feel important when he meets them. Praying for his continued success+well being.

[@Denashi]

The amount of shit Wil's parents put him (and his sister) through is insane! I’m so happy he found a better family in Frakes and the other members of TNG!

[@chrisd7047]

Him finding Anne was almost like him being rewarded karmically.

[@ThatOpalGuy]

He has a hot wife. Not sure if that makes up for the past.

[@jaymike3302]

Wheaton is the type to enjoy being a 'victim'...so I can't trust his accusations.

[@IceManTX69]

@@jaymike3302 How many times you gonna post that? Did he give you a wedgie at a convention or what?

[@seamus7585]

​@@jaymike3302 I've heard spiel like yours before. Sounds like you're an abuser.

[@DeadFlanders]

Jonathan is looking great! Always enjoy listening to his interviews..

[@moses0686]

Hearing Jonathan Frakes say " I feel you" was everything I will ever need

[@theart7111]

I met Jonathan Frakes in South Africa, they were doing some movie there in the Cederberg mountains. Nice guy, authentic , and tall, I'm 6'2 , and I looked up at him, so he's pretty tall I would say.

[@ronleight9341]

The Ready Room is fantastic! Wil really found his niche.

[@JediWitness2]

I met Marina Sirtis (Deanna Troi) at a convention one time. Was TOTALLY unexpected as there was NO billing even saying that she and several other celebs, including Eric Roberts, were even going to be there. So we were just walking around looking at the Panels and Boom.. there she is sitting there. So we talked with her for about 20 min and she was the NICEST lady. She said that they had the BEST CAST as they're all Still SUPER CLOSE and just LOVED working with each other and are a second family as they make time to get together for various events and outings etc. Later on the wife went to the ladies room and Marina was in there with just the two of them. I was waiting outside for about 20 minutes wondering what was going on.. She came out with a big smile on her face as she grew up watching Next Gen with her dad and she said they were just talking up a storm with each other. she said It was like she was a long lost aunt or something lol. What made it even greater was as mentioned, we had NO IDEA that she was even going to be there.

[@foc42]

Wil carried some weight on his shoulders in the STU, being the over excited character and Picard fan boy and nexus to STNG's target audience. He was envied by many of us. Just now, after him being nerdy and much more relaxed as himself in Big Bang Theory we see, how long his path to independance was. Glad, he found family where none would have expected it.

[@Chuckf66]

WHEEEEEEAAAAATON! 😉

[@tappy8741]

The character was poorly written, that's where 95% of criticism comes from. Either better writing or less of the character would have improved the show, nothing to do with the actor.

[@robtierney5653]

Just a couple years ago, I'm at my Dad's place and Star Trek TNG was on TV,. And my dad's lady noticed Jonathan Frakes in a scene. And she's like, "I love him, he looks so good in a Uniform." Then about twenty minutes later, she's like this is the weirdest episode of (some Days of our Lives or some Soap Opera). She wasn't a Star Trek fan, and 20 minutes in the episode she thought she was watching a soap show because he was in them before TNG. It was funny.

[@mary-janereallynotsarah684]

Which uniform was it? 😄

[@shauntempley9757]

Let me guess. It was a Q episode, right? She clearly remembers John DeLancie play a mad scientist on Days Of Our Lives, a few years before TNG started. Trust me. You see him in that role, it sticks with you, and in a good way. Frakes Riker comes off as similar in a number of episodes to De Lancie's character in Days.

[@robtierney5653]

@@mary-janereallynotsarah684 US Naval the tidy whites.

[@aquamarine2044]

Actually loved the episode where Picard said to Wesley. Shut up Wesley!