In Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, Lieutenant La’an Noonien-Singh, portrayed by Christina Chong, stands out as a deeply engaging character, shedding light on the complexities of the USS Enterprise’s Chief of Security. As a series regular and one of the new introductions in this prequel to Star Trek: The Original Series, La’an is portrayed with seriousness and an unwavering sense of duty, while the show gradually reveals her multifaceted personality.
La’an’s surname links her to the notorious Khan Noonien Singh (played by Ricardo Montalban), a genetically engineered tyrant, further complicating her character. The weight of her family history has plagued her since childhood, especially after a traumatic incident involving the Gorn, who kidnapped her and her family. La’an was the sole survivor, rescued by Una Chin-Riley (Rebecca Romijn), who acted as a mentor in her journey to join Starfleet.
As the Security Chief aboard the USS Enterprise, under the command of Captain Christopher Pike (Anson Mount), La’an plays a crucial role throughout the series. Christina Chong’s performance, filled with intensity, charm, and humor, has made La’an a beloved character among fans. Though she strives to maintain her emotional barriers, her kindness, bravery, and warmth are unmistakably portrayed in various episodes of the show.
8 Noteworthy Episodes of “Strange New Worlds”
Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 1, Episode 1
The series premiere, titled after the show itself, introduces Lt. La’an Noonien-Singh as the forthright Chief of Security on the USS Enterprise. In her first mission, La’an partners with Captain Pike and Lieutenant Spock (Ethan Peck) to rescue Lt. Commander Una Chin-Riley from the hostile Kiley 279, leading to a dramatic transformation wherein Nurse Christine Chapel (Jess Bush) alters their appearances to that of Kiley natives.
During this mission, La’an forms a close connection with Number One while building trust with Captain Pike. Interestingly, she declines painkillers administered by Nurse Chapel during her transformation, hinting at her struggle with control. This episode sets the stage for exploring La’an’s past and psychological depth.
7 “Memento Mori”
Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 2, Episode 4
In “Memento Mori,”viewers delve into La’an’s troubled past. The episode kicks off with the Starship Enterprise under attack from the Gorn, with La’an’s firsthand knowledge crucial in guiding Pike to successfully navigate the situation. It introduces Starfleet Remembrance Day, revealing her painful experience aboard the SS Puget Sound during the Gorn abductions.
Moreover, her backstory unveils the tragic loss of her family, including her brother, Manu Noonien-Singh (Cameron Roberts), as Lt. Spock connects with her trauma through a mind meld. This episode greatly positions La’an as a pivotal character in the ongoing conflict with the Gorn.
6 “Spock Amok”
Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 2, Episode 5
The light-hearted “Spock Amok” serves as a platform for La’an’s more playful side. Wandering the ship, she lets loose with Una, demonstrating a refreshing contrast to her usual serious demeanor. The joyous moments culminate as they witness stunning sights, offering La’an a glimpse into the lighter side of life among the stars.
5 “All Those Who Wander”
Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 2, Episode 9
The penultimate episode of season one, “All Those Who Wander,” forces La’an to confront her Gorn-related trauma. After responding to a distress signal from the USS Peregrine, the crew faces off against terrifying infant Gorn creatures. As Lt. Hemmer (Bruce Horak) makes the ultimate sacrifice, La’an steps up to protect Orianna (Emma Ho), a young survivor.
The transition from light-hearted interactions over Captain Pike’s waffles to the grisly reality of Gorn confrontations starkly showcases La’an’s commitment to her crew. Her decision to assist Orianna reunites her with the child La’an once was, leading to a meaningful leave of absence to ensure Orianna’s safety.
4 “Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow”
Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 2, Episode 3
Offering a captivating tale of time travel romance, “Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow” features La’an teaming up with an alternate Captain James T. Kirk (Paul Wesley) in a 21st-century setting. As they track down a Romulan saboteur, La’an saves a young Khan Noonien Singh (Desmond Sivan), leading to a poignant love story marred by tragedy when Kirk’s life is cut short.
This episode exemplifies Christina Chong’s nuanced performance, as La’an navigates a reality where she is not defined by her surname. Through her emotional connection with Kirk, La’an begins to envision a future beyond her fear-ridden past, albeit painfully confronted with the loss of her newfound love.
3 “Among The Lotus Eaters”
Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 2, Episode 4
In “Among the Lotus Eaters,” La’an supports Captain Pike’s mission on Rigel VII, where he encounters a former shipmate. This episode subtly features new dimensions of La’an, who shares a unique understanding with Dr. M’Benga as veterans of the Klingon War, evolving their bond.
While not dominating the narrative, La’an’s contributions and her shared gestures with M’Benga deepen her character, offering snippets of her past while expanding her relationships within the crew.
2 “Subspace Rhapsody”
Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 2, Episode 9
As the series’ first musical episode, “Subspace Rhapsody” shines a spotlight on La’an’s emotional journey. Captivated by the arrival of Lt. James T. Kirk, La’an is driven to express her feelings through her powerful musical number, “Change My Paradigm.”
Despite Kirk’s established relationship, the episode marks a significant milestone for La’an, allowing her to confront her feelings more openly than ever before. Christina Chong’s advocacy for this musical element highlights her character’s transformation and emotional development, paving the way for future explorations in season 3.
1 “Hegemony”
Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 2, Episode 10
The season finale, “Hegemony,” sees the return of the Gorn as they attack La’an and the USS Enterprise crew. In a desperate mission led by Captain Pike, La’an’s worst fears materialize when she is once again captured by the Gorn, alongside fellow crew members.
This episode serves as a stark reminder that La’an’s struggles with her past and her desire for growth are not yet over. As the crew battles their ancient foes, La’an must confront the demons from her past in what promises to be a captivating narrative in the forthcoming season of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.