J.K. Woodward | L’Rell “Star Trek: Discovery”
“My favorite Trek character of all time was always Kor, but the DaHar Master may have just been dethroned, by the great Mother of the Empire. L’Rell is not only a feminist symbol, but she also had the most comprehensive story arc and as a result is one of Star Trek’s most compelling character.
When we meet L’Rell she’s working in the shadow of a man;T’Kuvma. She employs a more clandestine influence in the Empire. She even at times seems untrustworthy or duplicitous, but as the story reveals the nature of the environment in which she operates, we start to see the patriarchal nature of the Klingon empire. L’rell is trapped in a “boy’s club” allegory, which she eventually conquers on her terms. Though there are plenty of strong female characters in Star Trek, I can think of no better feminist icon than that.
Despite these seemingly humble beginnings, L’rell moves past the shadow of T’Kuvma, to become a refugee, a prisoner, and eventually High Chancellor of the Klingon Empire. In that role, she unites the Empire in a way that T’Kuvma was never able to. Captain Kirk took over a decade to move from Captain to Admiral, and though his story was impressive, filled with extraordinary feats and filled with seemingly insurmountable obstacles, he never had as much to overcome. It’s a joy to watch her develop and change throughout the first 2 seasons of Discovery
In her journey she embodies attributes of cunning and deceit, but also honor and virtue. She exhibits strength and boldness, but also love and vulnerability. The writers and Mary Chieffo manage to weave seemingly antithetical characteristics into the character that somehow gel in a way that makes L’rell feel both authentic and compelling.
These things make her not just a vibrant, indelible character, but also, my new all time favorite. (Sorry Kor)
(I had once done something similar about Kor a few years ago for 13th Dimension, if you’re interested in seeing it : https://13thdimension.com/why-kor-is-the-greatest-star-trek-character-ever/)”
— J.K. WoodwardJ.K.’s Bio:
J.K. Woodward is a life-long Star Trek fan who started his professional comics career in 2003. He is best known for his work on IDW’s Star Trek comics like "Mirror Broken" and Harlan Ellison’s “The City on the Edge of Forever.” He has also worked with other comic producers including Marvel, DC, Dark Horse, BOOM! and Image Comics, as well as other companies and individuals for specialized commissions.