Wil Wheaton, best known for his role as Wesley Crusher in “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” recently opened up about the deep connections he formed with his former costars, particularly highlighting the genuine parental love he has experienced from LeVar Burton and Jonathan Frakes. Talking with actor and podcaster Michael Rosenbaum, Wheaton candidly went into his painful experiences of being estranged from his parents. He opened up about how his relationships with his “Star Trek” colleagues have deeply impacted his life.
Wheaton’s reflections are particularly timely as he finishes work on his own new project, “Storytime,” which he will announce next week. The night before this announcement, he called some of his “Star Trek” castmates. He started calling, first with Patrick Stewart, then with Gates McFadden, Michael Dorn, Marina Sirtis, Brent Spiner and Jonathan Frakes. He thanked them for their support and for the role they played in his path toward change.
Wheaton shared an emotional message he sent to Burton, stating, “I just want you to know that we’re announcing today, and I’m excited and kind of nervous. This wouldn’t exist without you. This wouldn’t exist if you hadn’t believed in me.” That conviction underlies the power of Burton’s influence on Wheaton’s long life.
Having received Burton’s reply to Wheaton’s text, Burton decided to call Wheaton. This was his first move. “I couldn’t just text you. I had to hear your voice,” he said during their conversation. This powerful moment emphasized how deep their connection runs and the comfort they give each other.
Wheaton noted that he has felt parental love only twice in his life, sharing, “Twice in my life, I have felt what I imagine it is like when your parents love you and approve of you.” He spoke about how critical this sense of belonging has been in his life as he’s dealt with many of his own personal and professional struggles.
As we talked, it became apparent that Wheaton takes a kind of solace in talking about his greatest successes. He treasures these chats with his new, Star Trek, guardian angels. He expressed just how much their trust in him has driven his goals and dreams. “Thank you for being there for me when you didn’t know that you were,” he expressed to Burton.
Wheaton made a notable appearance at the premiere of “Star Trek: Picard” Season 3 in Los Angeles on February 9, 2023. Just a few days later, on February 12th, 2025, Burton addressed the room at the National Arts Advocacy Summit, held in Summerlin, Las Vegas. He went on to exemplify the powerful legacy of their friendship and the values they both hold dear.
“As “Storytime” readies for its release, Wheaton urges everyone to truly feel what they’re feeling. “Sit in this, enjoy this, feel this in your body. Have these feelings in your heart and in your arms,” he advised during the interview.
