I wish this Star Trek: The Next Generation couple’s romance had lasted longer

Wondering about the couple I am talking about from Star Trek: The Next Generation? It is Commander William T. Riker and his brief romantic interest, Ensign Ro Laren. Unlike many of Riker’s more casual or episodic romances, his dynamic with Ro felt surprisingly grounded. Their character had shown building the tension with time, and the banter in “Conundrum” was not just surface-level frustration but established tension. Riker saw Ro as insubordinate and reckless, while for her, he was rigid and judgmental.

Therefore, though they have often clashed with each other but deep down it also suggests a connection between the two fascinating characters. Read on to know more.

Disclaimer: This article contains the writer's opinion. Readers’ discretion is advised.

Here is why I think Star Trek: The Next Generation's this couple’s romance had lasted longer

Several reasons come to my mind why their romance always stood out among so many other romantic interests of Riker. I think, despite their earlier conflict, Ro and Riker had undeniable chemistry. Their flirtation and eventual intimacy felt spontaneous, sincere, and surprisingly affectionate. The contrast to their usual interactions made it all the more compelling.

Secondly, their tension was turned playful. Conundrum gave a rare glimpse into how both characters might behave in a less rigid and less duty-bound context. Riker was charming and relaxed while Ro was warm, which further humanised them in the scene, bringing out something their hierarchy never allowed them.

In the scene of season 5 episode 14, Riker arrives in his room with Ro already sitting there. When Riker tells her that she might have gotten into the wrong one, she replies that she doesn't like the way the quarters were decorated in her room:

"For all we know, you and I could be married," says Ro.

"For all we know, you and I could hate each other," replies Riker.

"Sort of exciting, isn't it? We just don't know," concludes Ro.

Unfortunately, the romance lasted just one episode and was never revisited, despite its impact. I believe Ro and Riker had a dynamic worth developing — one that could have softened both characters while also adding layers of tension and affection to their scenes. The end of the episode again features their lingering feelings, but they end up feeling awkward about what had happened, however, neither dismisses it with disdain in Star Trek.

Trending

Ultimately, this was done in Star Trek to give fans a tantalising "what-if" glimpse of a deeper connection between two strong, flawed, and fascinating characters. TNG was episodic, and character relationships rarely evolved in ways that disrupted the ensemble’s balance. Therefore, Ro and Riker's romance could have introduced complications for other characters, particularly with Troi.

Although Star Trek never explored it further remains one of the more bittersweet “missed connections” in its history.

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback