Seven of Nine: Tension and Secrets on the Set of Star Trek: Voyager
When Jeri Ryan joined Star Trek: Voyager in Season 4 as Seven of Nine, the show gained a powerful new presence — and behind the scenes, a storm of tension. While Seven of Nine quickly became a fan-favorite character for her complexity and unique storyline, her arrival wasn’t without drama. What started as a bold new direction for the series also triggered behind-the-scenes friction, secrets, and lasting impact on the cast and crew.
A Character Meant to Save the Show
By the time Ryan joined Voyager, the show was facing slipping ratings. Seven of Nine, a former Borg drone trying to reclaim her humanity, was created to inject new life into the series. Her skintight silver uniform and icy demeanor made headlines — some praising her, others criticizing the blatant appeal to male viewers. But it wasn’t just the public who had opinions — tensions simmered among the cast.
Conflict with Kate Mulgrew
The most well-known source of on-set tension involved Jeri Ryan and Kate Mulgrew, who played Captain Janeway. Mulgrew reportedly took issue not just with the way Seven was portrayed, but with how the media and showrunners emphasized Ryan’s physical appearance. According to multiple interviews over the years, Mulgrew felt the decision to highlight a sexy, tightly-dressed character undermined the integrity of the show and her position as the series’ female lead.
Their dynamic became strained, with both actresses admitting to difficulties. Mulgrew has said she didn’t want to be in scenes with Seven that reduced their characters to superficial eye candy. Ryan, meanwhile, later opened up about the stress she experienced and how emotionally draining the work environment could become.
Production Struggles and Health Impact
Ryan even revealed in interviews that the long hours and tight-fitting costume took a toll on her physical health. The latex suit was difficult to wear for extended periods, often leaving her overheated, dehydrated, and exhausted. Combined with the emotional strain of the cast tension, her time on set was far from easy.
Secrets, Silence, and Studio Politics
There were also rumors of deeper behind-the-scenes politics. Producers allegedly prioritized Seven of Nine storylines so much that it caused resentment among other cast members who felt their characters were being pushed aside. This shift created a quiet divide. While no public feuds erupted, there was a noticeable coolness among the core cast during later seasons, one fans have picked up on during conventions and interviews.
A Legacy Despite the Chaos
Despite the tension, Seven of Nine became one of the most beloved characters in the Star Trek universe. Jeri Ryan eventually reprised her role in Star Trek: Picard, where her character was allowed more emotional depth, complexity, and maturity — no silver suit necessary.
In the end, the drama behind the camera didn’t diminish Seven’s impact. But it remains a potent reminder that even in the utopian world of Star Trek, real-world tensions and human struggles can lurk just beyond the frame.
