Stephen Colbert Joins Star Trek: Starfleet Academy as Voice Character

The late-night host will voice the Digital Dean of Students in the new Paramount+ series.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Stephen Colbert has joined the cast of the upcoming television series 'Star Trek: Starfleet Academy' on Paramount+ as a voice character, marking a new project for the late-night host as his long-running talk show prepares to end its run in May. Colbert will provide the voice of the Digital Dean of Students in the series, which is part of the broader Star Trek franchise.

Why it matters

Colbert's involvement in the project reflects his long-documented interest in science fiction and fantasy media. Over the years, he has spoken publicly about his enthusiasm for the genre, including literature and film. His participation in 'Star Trek: Starfleet Academy' extends his connection to science fiction media that he has publicly supported for many years.

The details

In a video message for New York Comic Con 2025, Colbert revealed that his role in the series would be performed entirely through voice acting rather than appearing physically on screen. As the Digital Dean of Students, Colbert's character is responsible for making announcements within the fictional academic institution featured in the series. The host commented on the practical advantage of the voice-only role compared with traditional on-camera appearances, saying, 'I'm thrilled to join this universe that I've loved for so long, and unlike my on-camera castmates, I'm thrilled to join it without having to spend four hours in hair and makeup every day.'

  • The announcement was made during a video message created for New York Comic Con in October 2025.
  • Colbert's late-night program, 'The Late Show With Stephen Colbert,' is scheduled to conclude its run in May.

The players

Stephen Colbert

The late-night host who will provide the voice of the Digital Dean of Students in 'Star Trek: Starfleet Academy.'

Paul Giamatti

The actor who portrays the part-Klingon villain Nus Braka in the series.

Gene Roddenberry

The creator of the Star Trek franchise, which first introduced the fictional universe in 1966.

Paramount+

The streaming platform that will distribute 'Star Trek: Starfleet Academy.'

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What they’re saying

“I am honored to announce that my beautiful voice will be joining 'Star Trek: Starfleet Academy' as the Digital Dean of Students.”

— Stephen Colbert (Video message for New York Comic Con 2025)

“Where I'll get to announce things like, 'Attention, Ensign Krebs, your Talaxian Furfly has exited the replicator and is now mating with itself. Please report to Science Lab One immediately. Children are watching.' That's an actual line.”

— Stephen Colbert (Video message for New York Comic Con 2025)

“You need a little work, but you've got a future.”

— Paul Giamatti (The Late Show With Stephen Colbert)

What’s next

Additional details about the cast, plot, and release date for 'Star Trek: Starfleet Academy' are expected to be announced in the coming months as Paramount+ prepares to launch the new series.

The takeaway

Stephen Colbert's involvement in 'Star Trek: Starfleet Academy' as the voice of the Digital Dean of Students reflects his long-standing interest in science fiction and fantasy media. The role allows him to contribute to the Star Trek universe without the time-consuming on-camera commitments, providing a unique opportunity for the veteran entertainer as he transitions away from his late-night talk show.