How Each Star Trek Captain Got Cast
12. Did This Hero Have To Tell Some Big Little Lies To Get The Part?
Cristóbal Rios has been one of the better additions to the franchise in Star Trek Picard. The series has been somewhat polarizing in its reception, with many saying it is a far cry from the Trek of old, while others say it is a natural successor from where the franchise left off in Star Trek: Nemesis.
Whichever side of the argument one comes down on, Santiago Cabrera has quickly established himself as one of the more memorable cast members in the Star Trek family. Not only does he play Rios, but he also takes on the roles of the holographic crew of the La Sirena. While the accents may have...varied...what was consistent was his sense of fun!
He first became known for his stint on Heroes, alongside Zachary Quinto. From there, he has appeared in several shows on both sides of the Atlantic, including a stint on Big Little Lies, which also featured another Trek alum - Adam Scott.
In taking on the role of Rios, he has become something of a cross between the new Riker character (it's all in the beard) and a haunted captain, calling back in a small sense to the Deckers and Edison's of the past. Though his demons have been aired by the end of the first seasons, Rios clearly has layers to him.
Cabrera, in the first season, got to showcase a range of acting talent, from holograms to flamboyant traders and the second season will hopefully continue to have fun with this great actor.