Podcaster Joe Rogan frequently uses his podcast to discuss his love for all things pop culture. The podcaster has been a massive fan of the sci-fi genre, often discussing his taste with his guests, including the Star Trek franchise, which is arguably the most-loved sci-fi series of all time.
During one of his podcast episodes, Rogan discussed the Star Trek franchise, but highlighted his issues with some of its core elements, including the Klingons, a race of aliens who are primarily depicted as villains.
In the conversation, Rogan cited the Klingons as an example of the franchise’s contradictions in its worldbuilding, which was a major hurdle for him as a viewer. Rogan’s comments hold some merit and may have even spoiled Star Trek as a whole for a casual viewer like me, and here is why.
Joe Rogan pointed out the absurdity of the Klingons in Star Trek
Joe Rogan is best known for his podcast The Joe Rogan Experience, where he chats with a variety of guests. Recently, Rogan sat down for a conversation with comedian Bobby Lee. During the chat, Rogan and Lee discussed the Star Trek franchise, with the former admitting to being a casual fan.
Rogan revealed that he found it hard to connect with the iconic sci-fi series because of its over-the-top acting and limited action choreography. Hence, it is safe to say that Rogan was critical of some aspects of the Star Trek franchise, especially the earlier shows and movies.
Is that crazy they have spaceships they still need knives.
Rogan made the above statement regarding the Klingons, the alien species from the franchise who are frequently portrayed as the villains.
The podcaster highlighted the absurdity in the franchise’s worldbuilding, arguing that such a depiction prevented him from connecting with the material. Rogan also highlighted the lack of advanced technology, such as mobiles, but the presence of advanced beaming tech as further contradictions.
Joe Rogan might have ruined Star Trek for casual viewers like me
While Rogan admitted that he wasn’t the biggest fan of the Star Trek universe, he did grow up when the original series was in syndication, making him view it with a sense of nostalgia. However, more casual fans like me, who do not have the luxury of nostalgia, might see the merit of Rogan’s criticisms.
When Gene Roddenberry developed the original series, the sci-fi genre hadn’t imploded with the advent of blockbusters such as Star Wars. Hence, the series had to be produced on a tight budget, which certainly affected its worldbuilding aspects.
Despite this, the series simply should’ve remained consistent with its internal logic when it comes to the depiction of alien races like the Klingons. The exact level of the race’s technological advancements shouldn’t have created contradictions. As a result, it is now impossible for me to see Star Trek without noticing the inconsistencies in lore, effectively ruining it for me.
Star Trek shows and movies are streaming on Paramount+.
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