Laurence Fishburne: The Sci-Fi Icon Tracing His Fandom Back to "Star Trek"
Laurence Fishburne, the award-winning actor known for his powerful performances, is also a true blue sci-fi devotee. His filmography—a galaxy of hits like The Matrix trilogy, Predators, Man of Steel, Event Horizon, and Slingshot – speaks for itself. But what ignited his fascination with this genre?
In a recent interview with Variety, Fishburne revealed the spark that ignited his passion: "Star Trek."
"I am a product of my time," he explained. "I was born in 1961, so where do you think I fell in love with sci-fi? I fell in love with sci-fi on television. There was a little show called Star Trek, and it was the first television show in America that had a diverse, and multiracial crew on it, so I could turn on Star Trek and see people that looked like me in space in the future."
His words resonate with a generation who found powerful representation in the diverse crew of the original Star Trek series. Fishburne’s connection to the show goes deeper than its groundbreaking inclusivity. He vividly remembers specific characters and storylines, showcasing his deep appreciation for the series’ legacy.
"The show had many guest actors, like the great William Marshall, who played Dr. Richard Daystrom," Fishburne continues, highlighting the impact of such memorable characters. "He was a brilliant scientist who built this amazing, sentient computer. There were so many people, and that’s where my initial love of science fiction began."
Beyond Star Trek, Fishburne’s childhood love for sci-fi blossomed with the emergence of Star Wars. He names the classic Planet of the Apes, the David Bowie-led The Man Who Fell To Earth, and the chilling Soylent Green among his favorite films of the era. These movies, with their exploration of future societies, alien encounters, and environmental anxieties, resonated with the young Fishburne, deepening his fascination with the possibilities of science fiction.
Fishburne’s passionate appreciation for the genre bleeds into his own work. His current project, Slingshot, is a sci-fi psychological thriller that sees him delve into the unexplored corners of space. He is currently filming Transformers One, and Megalopolis is slated for release soon. These projects promise to further cement his legacy as a prominent figure in the world of sci-fi cinema.
It’s no surprise, then that Fishburne’s fondness for Star Trek continues. "I would love to be in a Star Trek project,” he says. "I’ve got an idea." This passionate statement leaves fans eagerly awaiting the possibility of seeing him navigate the starship Enterprise one day.
Beyond his sci-fi roots, Fishburne’s acting career has spanned across genres, from dramatic roles in Apocalypse Now and What’s Love Got to Do with It to his iconic portrayal of Morpheus in The Matrix. He has even entered the fantasy realm with his upcoming role in Season 4 of The Witcher.
Fishburne’s journey from a Star Trek-inspired kid to a celebrated actor with a deep affinity for science fiction is a testament to the genre’s enduring power. His story is a reminder that sci-fi’s allure lies not only in its dazzling visuals and exciting narratives, but also in its ability to explore profound themes about the human condition, society, and our place in the universe.
His love for Star Trek is a testament to the show’s influence, particularly its groundbreaking diversity. His continued work in sci-fi reaffirms the genre’s power to inspire and captivate, and his dedication to portraying complex characters with depth and nuance sets him apart as a true icon, navigating the cosmos both on and off screen.
Key takeaways from Lawrence Fishburne’s sci-fi journey:
- Star Trek served as Fishburne’s first foray into sci-fi fandom, fueled by its groundbreaking diversity and inclusivity.
- His love for the genre extends to films like Star Wars, Planet of the Apes, and The Man Who Fell To Earth, showcasing his appreciation for various sci-fi subgenres.
- Fishburne’s own acting career is deeply intertwined with sci-fi, showcasing his passion through iconic roles and ongoing projects like Slingshot, Transformers One, and Megalopolis.
- His continued desire to work on a Star Trek project underscores the enduring influence of this show on his life and career.
Lawrence Fishburne’s life story encapsulates the enduring power of science fiction. It’s a genre that can inspire, spark wonder, and ultimately, reflect the ever-evolving human experience. From the starship Enterprise to the frontiers of future societies, Fishburne remains a beacon of the genre’s enduring appeal, showcasing its ability to captivate audiences and celebrate the wonder of what lies beyond our world.
