After 58 Years, Star Trek Introduces a Heroic Version of Khan

Warning: SPOILERS For Star Trek: Section 31

After 58 long years, the franchise has finally unveiled a heroic reinterpretation of Khan Noonien Singh in Star Trek: Section 31. Originating from the iconic “Space Seed”episode in Star Trek: The Original Series, Khan has been etched in the minds of fans as Captain James T. Kirk’s (William Shatner) most notorious adversary. This exceptionally intelligent and formidable genetically engineered tyrant emerged from 20th century Earth, later returning to unleash chaos in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan.

Khan stands out as the first genetically engineered Augment in Star Trek history. Throughout the narrative universe, the fear of Khan’s potential is often cited as the main reason the United Federation of Planets implemented a ban on genetic augmentation. Nevertheless, the series has also introduced some virtuous Augments, like Dr. Julian Bashir from Star Trek: Deep Space Nine and Lt. Commander Una Chin-Riley (a.k.a. Number One) from Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. However, neither character closely mirrors Khan’s essence.

Alok Sahar: The Heroic Version of Khan Trekkies Have Anticipated for Decades

Alok: The Antithesis of Khan

A key revelation from Star Trek: Section 31 is that Alok Sahar, portrayed by Omari Hardwick, is also an Augment, sharing a backstory that contrasts sharply with Khan’s. Alok, hailing from the 20th century during Earth’s Eugenics Wars, had his genetics manipulated by another Augment named Giri the Marked, granting him enhanced strength and abilities. Unfortunately, he was coerced into committing atrocities by other Augments before they fled Earth. Revived centuries later, Alok becomes a member of Section 31.

Both Khan and Alok share a history shaped by the turmoil of the Eugenics Wars, with Khan being a symbol of terror among Earth’s genetically altered figures. Unlike Khan, who thirsted for power and carnage, Alok embodies heroism at his core. Although the motivations driving him to join Section 31 remain underexplored, Alok’s decision to use his abilities for the protection of the Federation positions him as a virtuous counterpart to Khan’s destructive legacy.

Understanding the Setbacks of Star Trek: Section 31’s Heroic Khan

Alok Sahar: A Character Shortchanged

Alok, Quasi, and Georgiou in action in Section 31

Regrettably, Alok Sahar’s potential is stifled by several shortcomings that plagued the reception of Star Trek: Section 31. While his intriguing backstory as an Augment championing the Federation connects him to Star Trek lore, the film fails to delve deeply into his character and those of others in Section 31. Alok’s cleverness and resourcefulness merely skim the surface, reducing him to the role of a conventional action hero.

The absence of a sequel leaves many questions about Alok Sahar unanswered. Although the prospect of a follow-up exists, its uncertain future casts doubt on whether this might be the end of Alok’s journey. This outcome would be particularly disappointing, considering he stands as the franchise’s first true alternative to Khan in nearly six decades.

Khan’s Descendant in Strange New Worlds: Not a Heroic Augment

Lieutenant La’an Noonien-Singh: Not a Reflection of Khan

In a different vein, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds explores a connection to Khan through Lieutenant La’an Noonien-Singh (played by Christina Chong), the USS Enterprise’s Security Chief. Despite her lineage to Khan, La’an is entirely human and lacks any evidence of the enhanced physical traits that characterize her ancestor. Instead, she grapples with the shadow of Khan, worried that she may inherit his nefarious tendencies.

In the season 2 episode titled “Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow, ”the timeline is altered, revealing La’an’s encounter with a young Khan in 2022 Toronto. Interestingly, the series turns expectations on their head by establishing La’an’s mentor, Number One, as an Augment. Thus, while La’an shares Khan’s bloodline, her actions are grounded in compassion and heroism, distinctly setting her apart from her infamous ancestor. In the end, Alok Sahar from Star Trek: Section 31 evolves into the true heroic counterpart to Khan, representing the Federation that the villain once sought to destroy.

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