AceShowbiz - Producing Star Trek: The Next Generation is a complex challenge for everyone involved, especially when the series explores the most imaginative corners of science fiction. Beyond the intricate technical effects that bring the futuristic world to life, the cast faces the demanding task of delivering compelling performances amid often fantastical storylines. Among the talented actors who have graced the franchise, Patrick Stewart stands out as one of the most esteemed, known for his commanding portrayal of Captain Jean-Luc Picard.

Stewart’s role as Picard frequently earns him recognition as one of the greatest characters in the Star Trek universe. With a background in classical theater, Stewart approached the role with professionalism, even when the sci-fi material sometimes felt far-fetched or awkward. Nonetheless, there was one episode that tested his patience more than most, as recently revealed by a fellow cast member.

In a candid conversation with Gates McFadden, who plays Dr. Beverly Crusher on the series, Star Trek: Lower Decks star Tawny Newsome asked if either actress had ever performed in something they privately felt was subpar. McFadden didn’t hesitate to point to one of the most criticized episodes of Star Trek: The Next Generation, “Sub Rosa.”

“When I saw the ‘Sub Rosa’ script, I was like, ‘You are kidding me,’” McFadden admitted. She also recounted how Patrick Stewart reacted to the episode, saying, “Patrick hated it. He was like ‘This is absurd!’ and all. And when you read it, there are so many completely absurd things in it. It’s more like a little Gothic-horror or something, but yeah...”

“Sub Rosa” is widely regarded as one of the missteps in the Star Trek franchise. The episode’s plot centers around Dr. Crusher and the Enterprise crew traveling to the Scottish-themed Caldos colony. Their mission involves burying Crusher’s grandmother, Felisa Howard (played by Ellen Albertini Dow), and assisting with repairs to an ancient Federation weather control system. While the subplot concerning the weather system fits within typical Star Trek science fiction, the main storyline veers sharply into Gothic romance territory.

In this storyline, Dr. Crusher encounters Ronin (Duncan Regehr), a mysterious entity who is revealed to be an energy-based lifeform. Ronin has been bonding with female members of Crusher’s family lineage to maintain a physical form. The episode’s tone and aesthetic—complete with period costumes and supernatural elements—felt jarringly out of place for the franchise, which traditionally steers clear of such overtly romantic or horror themes.

The episode’s departure from the series’ usual style, along with its relatively steamy and unsettling sexual undertones, contributed to its negative reception. Gates McFadden’s portrayal, in particular, has been described as unintentionally humorous, making the episode feel even more out of sync with the rest of the show. Giving such a bizarre standalone story to a main character like Dr. Crusher—who serves as the ship’s doctor—was a questionable creative choice.

It is, however, reassuring to know that Patrick Stewart was outspoken about his distaste for the episode, showing solidarity with his co-star. Though McFadden once found the episode difficult to take seriously, she has since embraced its oddities. “Now I embrace it because I think it is hilarious,” she said. “I mean, I just, I’ve learned to love the green-eyed orgasm that Crusher has, you know? I mean, that doesn’t happen every day, a green-eyed orgasm...”

Fans who have watched “Sub Rosa” will recognize the reference to Crusher’s climactic and bizarre “bonding” scene with Ronin, before she ultimately frees herself and destroys the alien parasite. The episode masquerades as sci-fi but leans heavily into camp and romance novel clichés, which has made it memorable for all the wrong reasons.

For viewers interested in revisiting or judging the episode themselves, Star Trek: The Next Generation, including “Sub Rosa,” is available to stream on Paramount+. Fans are encouraged to join discussions about their favorite and least favorite episodes on forums such as the ComicBook community.

In summary, “Sub Rosa” represents a rare moment where even a seasoned performer like Patrick Stewart expressed frustration with the storytelling choices in Star Trek: The Next Generation. While the episode continues to be a source of amusement and critique among the cast and fans alike, it remains a distinctive example of the risks taken during the series’ run.