Star Trek: 10 Riker Romances That Were A TOTAL Security Risk
5. Understanding And Compassion
In all seriousness, The Outcast is an episode that deserves its own deep dive.
Riker finds himself falling for Soren, a guest from an androgynous species who seems exceptionally curious about gender and sexuality. As they work together, the bond between them grows, and Soren finally becomes comfortable enough to tell him that she feels female, despite the risks. Where she's from, people with genders have no choice but to hide who they are, for fear of mistreatment or being forced to undergo a so-called 'cure'.
The Outcast is clearly a mirror to the real world, reflecting the oppression and prejudice faced by the LGBTQ+ community. It's a subject that era of Star Trek was rarely brave enough to broach, and despite some of the more dated dialogue, it's treated with the gravity it deserves.
As their romance blossoms, it's easy to empathise with Riker. This isn't just a fling; he truly cares for Soren. And yet, as a senior Starfleet officer, he has more to consider than just their feelings. Their relationship could create political fallout with untold diplomatic consequences. Not to mention the very real threat to Soren should they be discovered.
Unfortunately, that's exactly what happens, resulting in charges being brought against her. Riker tries to take the blame, but Soren refuses to let him cover up the truth.
In a remarkable speech, delivered sublimely by guest star Melinda Culea, she unequivocally announces that she is female, she was born that way, and it's not unnatural. She's not sick, she doesn't need help, and she doesn't need to be cured. She just needs understanding and compassion.
It falls on deaf ears, and Riker entreats Picard for help, but the captain warns him that the Prime Directive forbids them from interfering. In another risky (if all too understandable) move on his part, Riker launches a clandestine rescue mission with Worf, but it's too late. In a horribly bleak ending, Soren has already been 'cured'.
All these years later, this is one of those episodes that can still deliver a gut punch.