14-4 Hugh, Borg, and the Burden of Lore

The introduction of Hugh in Star Trek: The Next Generation’s “I, Borg” added emotional depth to the franchise’s most terrifying villains and reshaped Trek’s approach to individuality and redemption.

This week on The Trek Files, returning guest Adam Kotsko joins us to examine the legacy of Hugh’s first appearance, using a March 6, 1992 call sheet as our launch point. From behind-the-scenes insights on day one of filming to Picard’s rare role as the obstacle to resolution, we dive deep into the character’s mythological weight and long-lasting fan impact.

Adam also explores how Star Trek’s modern “franchise era” grapples with this legacy—sometimes successfully, sometimes not—especially as lore becomes both a storytelling tool and a trap in the prestige TV arms race.

📄 Document and additional references: I, Borg call sheet – March 6, 1992

📘 Adam's book: Late Star Trek: The Final Frontier in the Franchise Era

The Trek Files Season 14 on Memory Alpha

All episodes and documents: The Trek Files on Memory Alpha

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