Star Trek: TNG Star Recalls Infamous Episode Becoming a Cult Hit

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The Season 7 episode “Sub Rosa” is often remembered for being a big departure in style for the show, which initially surprised some viewers. However, over time, it’s gained a dedicated fanbase and is now enjoyed by many fans of the series.

Gates McFadden, the actress who played Beverly Crusher, recalls that she and Patrick Stewart were initially hesitant about the Star Trek: The Next Generation episode “Sub Rosa” when they first read it. However, she now finds the episode amusing to watch, especially the now-famous scene depicting Crusher experiencing a highly unusual and memorable moment – often described as a “green-eyed orgasm.”

Patrick Stewart “Hated” the “Sub Rosa” Episode

McFadden was initially shocked when he read the ‘Sub Rosa’ script. He recalls that his co-star, Patrick, also thought it was ridiculous. The script contained many bizarre elements, feeling more like a gothic horror story than what they expected. However, McFadden now finds it funny and has even come to appreciate the script’s most outlandish moments, like the character Crusher’s unusual experience, which he jokingly refers to as a ‘green-eyed orgasm’ – something you don’t see often.

Another star from the show (Star Trek: Lower Decks) chimed in, saying the performance was excellent. They praised the actor for playing the role as if it were a serious Shakespearean drama, even though the scene was clearly comedic and over-the-top, and that’s what makes it so memorable.

The Episode Became a Cult Favorite

In “Sub Rosa,” Dr. Crusher travels to Scotland for her grandmother’s funeral and unexpectedly inherits a strange candle. This candle seems linked to a secret romance from her family’s past. She becomes involved with Ronin, a supernatural being who appears as a lover through the candle. It’s eventually revealed that Ronin isn’t a resurrected person, but a non-physical alien. Dr. Crusher ultimately destroys the candle to break free from his influence.

Although she was nervous about filming one particular episode, Gates McFadden continued to be a part of the Star Trek universe for decades. After Star Trek: The Next Generation ended, she appeared in several Star Trek movies, culminating in Star Trek: Nemesis in 2002. More recently, she reprised her role as Crusher in Star Trek: Picard, where she worked alongside her longtime friend Patrick Stewart. She also provided the voice for an animated version of the character in the Nickelodeon show Star Trek: Prodigy.

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2026-04-25 04:16