Star Trek: Every Q Episode Ranked Worst To Best

This entry from Voyager was a very different type of Q story, dealing with suicide and euthanasia, along with the needs of the state versus the needs of the individual. While there are still many comedic elements in the episode, it was one of the more serious stories involving Q and served as his introduction into the new show.

The challenge began with trying to find a valid excuse to get Q onto the ship. Everyone wanted a Q story but no wanted to just shove him into the series for no reason (looking at you, Q-Less). It was producer Michael Pillar's son, Shawn, who broke the story that had stumped the writers.

They were able to use the episode to turn Q from the Loki-esque trickster to a deeper, philosophical character in the space of forty minutes. It also advanced the Q Continuum, offering a wider perspective on this race of titans. Q sees them as a dying race, stuck in their eternal stagnation. The trial that takes place manages to use de Lancie's comedy stylings to present a valid argument against suicide, while guest star Jonathan Frakes makes his only appearance on Voyager as well, introducing the namesake for the son he would lose in Star Trek Picard.

Guest actor Gerrit Graham clearly enjoys his time on screen, while delivering the most serious of performances. One of the strongest and most mature episodes to feature Q, this one is the best non-Next Generation role to date.