The cast of "Star Trek: Discovery" is getting beefed-up. "Rent" actor Anthony Rapp has boarded the series as the show's first openly gay character.
The casting of Rapp comes after former showrunner Bryan Fuller previously revealed that the TV adaptation will embrace a diverse cast, which will also include a non-white female lead. As for Rapp's character description, Collider reports that he will play Lt. Stamets, an astromycologist fungus expert and Starfleet Science Officer aboard the Starship Discovery.
Before joining the world of "Star Trek," Rapp has also appeared on other TV shows such as "Law & Order SVU," "Psych," "The X-Files" and "The Knick."
The actor took to Twitter to express his feelings after landing the role of Lt. Stamets on Star Trek: Discovery.
"So proud to be a part of this journey," Rapp said.
"I'm a longtime fan and super geek of the highest order."
So proud to be a part of this journey. I'm a longtime fan and super geek of the highest order. https://t.co/WCO3ulM7Gm
— Anthony Rapp (@albinokid) November 29, 2016
In addition to Rapp, the show has also cast "The Strain" actor Doug Jones. He will play the role of Lt. Saru, described as the main Starfleet Science Officer who also happens to be part of a brand new alien species in the Star Trek Universe.
Jones' previous film and TV credits include "Hellboy," "Pan's Labyrinth," "Falling Skies" and "Hocus Pocus."
Rapp and Jones join previously cast Michelle Yeoh, who is now confirmed to play the Starfleet Captain of Starship Shenzou, Capt. Georgiou. As for the show's female lead, the producers haven't found the actress yet. However, Deadline reports that they are close to casting her.
"Star Trek: Discovery" launches on May 2017 on CBS. Subsequent episodes will be available for streaming on CBS All Access.
