Star Trek introduces first openly gay Klingon

The Star Trek universe has taken a major step forward in LGBTQ+ representation with the introduction of Jay-Den Kraag, the franchise’s first openly gay Klingon. The character appears in the upcoming Paramount+ series Star Trek: Starfleet Academy and is portrayed by 23‑year‑old actor Karim Diané. 

Diané’s casting marks a significant departure from the traditional depiction of Klingons as hyper‑masculine warriors. Jay-Den is not only openly gay but also a pacifist studying medicine, challenging long‑held assumptions about one of Star Trek’s most iconic cultures.

The character’s arrival has generated both praise and typical backlash from Conservative quarters. Diané acknowledged that some responses have been rooted in “homophobia, racism, and bigotry”, but emphasised that messages of support from LGBTQ+ fans far outweigh the negativity. “People feel seen, validated, and inspired by Jay-Den,” he shared on social media.

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Veteran Star Trek actor George Takei has publicly supported the inclusion, calling the new character “meaningful” and reflective of a long‑overdue step for the franchise. Takei, who played Hikaru Sulu in the original 1960s series, noted that such representation would have been impossible during his early career.

Despite pockets of controversy online - some labelling the storyline “too woke” - many fans have embraced Jay-Den as a natural evolution of the franchise’s ethos of inclusivity. Gene Roddenberry’s guiding principle of Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations remains central to the show’s vision, one that Starfleet Academy’s creators say they are committed to honouring.

With Starfleet Academy set to debut in early 2026, Jay-Den Kraag’s introduction represents a milestone in Star Trek’s ongoing journey towards broader diversity, marking a future where characters of all identities can boldly go where none have gone before.