The Lord of the Rings actor wants to return to the Star Trek universe

In Peter Jackson’s 2001 fantasy epic The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, Actor John Rhys-Davies played Gimli the dwarfan axe-wielding warrior who served as a rough, comedic counterpoint to the characters with a poised, poised face. Rhys-Davies reprized the role in the two follow-up films, as well as in several “Lord of the Rings” spin-off video games. He also played minor characters such as Gloin and Treebeard. His association with ‘Lord of the Rings’ would be an impressive milestone for any actor, but Rhys-Davies has also had a very long career with appearances in dozens of other notable pop properties over several decades.

In addition to The Lord of the Rings, Rhys-Davies has starred in several Indiana Jones films (Including “Indiana Jones and the Connection of Destiny”), has voiced characters in high-profile Disney films, and starred in dozens of entertaining horror and adventure films. He has also played lead roles in notable science fiction television shows, voiced superheroes, and been involved in prestigious literary adaptations. Rhys-Davies’ versatile voice and endless professionalism have rewarded him with one of the most admired and most envied acting careers.

Of course, no one of Rhys-Davies’ stature could pass up the opportunity to star in a “Star Trek” movie. Rhys-Davies appeared in the Star Trek: Voyager episodes “Scorpion” (May 21, 1997) and “Concerning Flight” (November 26, 1997) playing a 3D recreation of Leonardo da Vinci. As Da Vinci, he strikes up conversations with the curious Captain Janeway (Kate Mulgrew). In May 2024, Rhys-Davies discussed his career at the pop culture conference Megacon (Covered by Popverse), and admitted that, of all the major media franchises he’s been involved in, he wishes he could have appeared on “Star Trek” the most.

Back in 1997, Rhys Davies He was even interviewed by the Chicago Tribune About his potential recurring role in “Star Trek: Voyager.” His holographic version of Leonardo da Vinci served as Captain Janeway’s unofficial advisor, and there was every reason to continue visiting him again on the holodeck; Even a strong character like Janeway will need a historical perspective from time to time. When asked at Megacon if there was a certain group of fans he liked talking to more than others (as Rhys-Davies will likely have to field questions from both Indiana Jones fans and “Lord of the Rings” fans regularly), he said very quickly: “I wish I had done more Star Trek movies.”

Even if Rhys-Davies doesn’t return as Leonardo da Vinci, “Star Trek” allows for so many alien guests and Starfleet admirals that he could easily have played another role. (Actors like Vaughn Armstrong and Jeffrey Combs are best known for their multiple roles on “Star Trek.”) Perhaps it’s disappointing that the 3D version of Leonardo da Vinci is back for her own. Episode “Star Trek: Lower Decks”. “Crisis Point” (October 1, 2020), and she even wore the same outfit that Rhys Davies wore in “Voyager.” However, in this case, the character was voiced by Gary Cole.

Rhys-Davies wouldn’t say what other kind of role he’d like to play on Star Trek, but he did say he loved watching the main Voyager cast expertly practice their craft on TV. Rhys-Davies has starred in 40 episodes of the sci-fi series Sliders, so he knew what it was like to be part of a prime-time sci-fi TV ensemble. Regarding the Voyager cast, he said, “It’s great to watch your fellow actors do amazing things and get away with it.”

Rhys Davies apparently wanted to get away with it too. As of this writing, “Starfleet Academy” is in production, and I’m sure Rhys-Davies could play a wise professor at such an interesting space school. If he had a chance in his busy schedule, he might be able to make an appearance.