It wasn’t exactly the Avengers spilling out of portals at the climax of “Avengers: Endgame,” but Trekkies everywhere likely breathed a sigh of relief once Saru materialized in Starfleet HQ early on in this week’s episode of “Discovery.” Explained away as having been on various diplomatic missions throughout the galaxy, the Kelpian’s unfailing sense of compassion and cool-headed logic have undoubtedly been missed. The Discovery crew would say the same thing, particularly during their own mission to track down the Progenitors’ technology through a series of breadcrumb-like clues — ones that were designed to allow only the most worthy candidates to succeed.
Throughout “Discovery,” perhaps no character has lived up such high standards — to say nothing of embodying the ideals of “Star Trek” as a whole — better than Saru. Sure, quality-wise, the series has undergone its fair share of ups and downs over the years. At the center of it all, however, Saru has provided the show’s beating heart and sense of moral clarity that Burnham has since inherited. From escaping the harsh environment of his Kaminar home world to bringing a strict (but empathetic) approach to Starfleet to even sparking an unexpectedly wholesome romance with President T’Rina, it’s safe to say that “Discovery” wouldn’t be the same without him. By decreasing his screen time so dramatically (which, again, might well be due to Jones’ schedule), the writers have proven the classic adage that absence truly does make the heart grow fonder.
Doug Jones’ performance as Saru will likely go down as one of the franchise’s most celebrated, if it hasn’t already. Before his next appearance in the finale (hopefully) ends with a wedding, we have precious few days to appreciate the show’s best character. The series finale streams on Paramount+ May 30, 2024.