Paramount Doubles Down: Khan Returns in Star Trek Audio Series No One Asked For

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It seemed like Paramount had decided to keep Khan at bay following the debacle of “Star Trek Into Darkness”, but surprise! At Comic-Con, they announced that Khan would make a comeback, this time in the form of a written script for a podcast.

As a passionate Star Trek fan, I’m thrilled to share the news about an upcoming audio series titled “Star Trek: Khan,” set to debut on September 8, 2025, marking Star Trek Day. This captivating tale delves into the descent of the iconic character, Khan, into madness on Ceti Alpha V.

However, given that the franchise previously mishandled the character through the whitewashed reboot featuring Benedict Cumberbatch, it’s not surprising to find that fans are far from enthusiastic.

Khan Is Back—But Not Onscreen

Narrated by Naveen Andrews, renowned from “Lost”, the latest Star Trek: Khan podcast is marketed as an in-depth exploration of one of Star Trek’s most famous antagonists. The series will trace the happenings between the Original Series and The Wrath of Khan, delving into Khan’s transformation from a genetically enhanced superhuman to a ruthless space despot.

Wrenn Schmidt (from For All Mankind) will be playing Marla McGivers, while Sonya Cassidy (of Reacher fame) joins as Dr. Rosalind Lear. Additionally, Tim Russ and George Takei, both known for their roles in Star Trek, are reprising their voices as Tuvok and Captain Sulu respectively.

The podcast will drop weekly episodes through November 3.

Backlash Already Brewing

Online fans have expressed curiosity about what purpose this has since its existence. Nicholas Meyer, director of “Wrath of Khan,” might be involved, but it hasn’t alleviated the doubts. The JJ Abrams reboot previously damaged the Khan legacy for numerous viewers, and instead of exploring fresh narratives or characters, Paramount is returning to a well that many believe should have remained untouched.

And with Alex Kurtzman attached as executive producer, the skepticism only grows.

Another Side Project in a Franchise Losing Direction

Star Trek: Khan adds to a growing collection of endeavors by the present Trek team, such as the widely criticized Starfleet Academy trailer and the more recently ridiculed Strange New Worlds puppet episode. It appears Paramount is experimenting with various formats—TV shows, animation, musical episodes, puppetry, and now audio dramas—in the hopes that something proves successful.

It’s unclear whether the revival of Khan as a podcast will restore its former glory within the franchise or if it will simply add to its mixed record during its recent years.

Watch the official teaser:

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2025-07-29 19:08