There is little doubt that people had high expectations of Michael Burnham throughout the three seasons of Star Trek: Discovery. But some were also wondering what would happen to the former Discovery captain Saru now that he had chosen to step away from the responsibility. Interestingly, actor Doug Jones may have confirmed Saru's fate in Star Trek: Discovery Season 4.
In the Star Trek: Discovery Season 3 finale, Saru worked with Su'Kal in turning off the simulation that caused The Burn centuries ago. In doing so, he helped Su'Kal come to terms with the death of his mother which was the reason why he had caused The Burn in the first place.
It's a noble move for Saru who was then expected to resume his role as Captain of the Discovery. However, Saru decided that Su'Kal would need help adapting to life on Kaminar. In order to help Su'Kal, Saru chose to step down as captain, leading to Michael Burnham being promoted.
It's a surprising move for most Trekkies considering that Saru is still expected to return in Star Trek: Discovery Season 4. So is it possible that Saru will continue to play a major role in the next season? Discovery co-showrunner Michelle Paradise confirmed that the character "will definitely be back in Season 4."
"We were concerned people would be afraid that Saru would not be coming back, but it is part of why he talks about going to Kaminar right now to be with Su'Kal. So hopefully it comes across that he will be coming back in Season 4," Paradise told TV Insider (via TrekMovie).
Doug Jones, who plays Saru in the series, also spoke about his character's mindset in the season finale. While talking to The Ready Room, Jones stated that "Saru really wants to take this opportunity because he wants to go home too" and that "his nostalgia has got the better of him."
But will Saru consider returning to the Discovery after he left in the first place? Doug Jones discussed the possibilities for his character and teased on what Trekkies can look forward to in Star Trek: Discovery Season 4.
"Is it difficult to return to a ship that you had captained and be a subordinate? Is there some connection to Kaminar now? Oh, maybe Ambassador Saru, for Kaminar to the Federation, one day. There are many options and many places we can go with it and I am looking forward to that, what is ahead," Jones said.
Star Trek: Discovery Season 4 has not yet been given an official release date. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.
