Star Trek: Discovery Episode 3.8 Review: Ups And Downs From The Sanctuary

3. Stamet's, Adira And Culber (UP)

Star Trek Discovery Stamets Culber And Adira
CBS

Honestly, this little family unit is becoming one of our favourite things about this season. There is a lot here this week. One thing that is good is clearing up Adira's non-binary nature. Before season 3 began airing, Blu del Barrio was announced as the first openly non-binary actor and character in Star Trek. That left us a little confused when they were constantly referred to as 'she' throughout the season. So, it was very nice that it was handled so simply here. It is a very short conversation and it is done.

There seems to be a parent-child relationship developing between Stamets and Adira, even if perhaps mentor/mentee would be a better description. What is clear is the trust that is developing between them. It is quite lovely to see. Also, piano on a starship. Yes. Simply yes.

Between Stamets, Culber and Adira, we could be seeing one of the most unconventional, yet unconditional family units in Star Trek on the Discovery. It is a plot thread in the season that has given so much joy already. We suspect that when it comes to the season round up, this is going to be high on the 'best of' lists!

Contributor
Contributor

Seán is the host and head writer/presenter for TrekCulture, as well as a writer/presenter on WhoCulture and WhatCulture Horror. He has authored two novels, dozens of short stories, and hundreds of articles for WhatCulture. He holds a Master of Arts in Creative Writing from University College Dublin. As part of his work with TrekCulture, Seán has been invited to participate in collaborations with Roddenberry Entertainment, as well as contributing to several Star Trek community projects. An avid fan of Star Trek, Doctor Who, and the horror genre at large, Seán's expertise has helped develop these channels to the successes they are today. As host of the Ups & Downs series on TrekCulture, Seán has become internationally recognised for his positive yet critically informed approach to reviewing every episode of modern Star Trek, ensuring he is one of the go-to voices in the Trek community. Favourite Quote to describe himself: "I'm serious about what I do, just not always about the way that I do it"