'Star Trek' Star Says He Was ‘Scared’ to Play His Groundbreaking Role — Here’s Why

Actor Karim Diané, 23, is getting candid about playing the first openly gay Klingon character in the Star Trek franchise.

Diané’s character, the gentle, science-minded Starfleet cadet, Jay-Den Kraag, was introduced to fans during the first episode of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, which premiered in January 2026. Jay-Den has had a flirtation with the War College cadet, Kyle Djokovic, played by Dale Whibley.

In a February 19 Instagram upload, Diané shared his thoughts about portraying such a significant Star Trek character.

“Meet Star Trek’s first gay Klingon: Jay-Den Kraag. I won’t pretend that I wasn’t scared to take on this role. Part of me still is. Not because of the character himself, but because I knew the reaction that could come with it,” stated Diané in the post’s caption. “I knew there would be people who would blur the line between who I play on screen and who I am in real life, and that much of that response would be rooted in homophobia, racism, bigotry. I knew that by stepping into this role, a lot of that heat would come directly to me.”

He then shared that while there has been backlash from Star Trek viewers, he has also received messages of appreciation and positivity from fans.

“But what matters more is this: over the past few weeks since this show premiered, I’ve received countless messages from LGBTQ+ people around the world… people who feel seen, validated, and inspired by Jay-Den. Those messages outweigh every bit of negativity. Every single time,” continued the Star Trek: Starfleet Academy star.

He also referenced that the first Star Trek series, Star Trek: The Original Series, created by Gene Roddenberry, focused on inclusion and the possibility of a brighter, better future.

“From its very first episode nearly 60 years ago, Gene Roddenberry’s vision was never about preserving the familiar,” wrote Diané. “He imagined a future that expanded who gets to be seen, heard, and valued. A future where diversity isn’t merely tolerated, but celebrated. Jay-Den doesn’t exist outside of that tradition. He exists because of it. ‘Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations’ isn’t just a catchy phrase Roddenberry tossed around. I believe he truly meant it.”

Diané concluded his Instagram message by sharing he feels “incredibly lucky to be part of a show that still believes in saying something meaningful.”

Fans Shared That They Appreciated Karim Diané’s Message & ‘Star Trek’ Character

Several fans flocked to the post’s comments section to share they appreciated both Diané’s message and his Star Trek: Starfleet Academy character.

“it’s a wonderful character and i’m glad it’s being played by someone who understands the context within and out of trek and has lived experience to back it up… new star trek has always received flack when first released… if only certain people remembered that about their old favourites,” wrote a commenter.

“I love Jay-Den and your portrayal of this complex character. As a gay Trekkie of color, I totally embrace all that Jay-Den and Academy celebrate,” added another.

“Thank you for the love you have poured into this role and your engagement with the fandom. I love Jay-Den and and the rest of the cast – all of you are such a wonderful addition to the Star Trek family. Representation matters and perhaps none is as timely in a very long time than this shows,” shared a different person.

“You are a wonderful welcome addition to this franchise. Thank you for sharing your passion and your artistry with Star Trek. Thank you for being brave. Jay-Den is incredible and so are you,” commented a fan.

“Ugh so beautifully well said, I don’t think there could have a been a better person to play Jay-Den Karim, you are so beautiful, kind, well spoken and intelligent. I’m so happy to see this new chapter in Star Treks legacy,” chimed in a fifth social media user.