This season on Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, Una Chin-Riley (Rebecca Romijn) faces the challenge of taking command in Captain Pike (Anson Mount)'s absence, giving us a deeper look at her leadership style. During a recent interview with the press, Romijn shared that Una, who prides herself on being open with her crew, will deal with an "insubordinate crew member," most notably Ortegas (Melissa Navia). This dynamic will be explored multiple times, showcasing Una's ability to be both connected with her crew and stern when necessary. She'll also navigate "bending the rules for the greater good."

Una's journey this season sets itself apart as she's no longer "hiding behind her secret about being an Illyrian and genetically modified." Being "cleared," she's a "freer, lighter version of herself."

Romijn has felt that Una's relationship with Captain Pike is "never romantic." She feels they are "very good old friends," having been at Starfleet Academy together, and share a deep admiration and trust. Director Jonathan Frakes often guides them to approach scenes from the perspective of "old friends." Both are "service-hearted leaders" who share the "same values" and a "commitment to Starfleet's adherence to protocol," which is why they admire each other so much.

The show continues to push boundaries with its genre exploration. Romijn noted that season three will feature genres they "didn't think could be outdone in season two," including horror, comedy, and another genre not to be revealed.

Looking ahead, Romijn is currently wrapping up season four and calls it her "favorite season yet," praising the writers for "thinking outside the box." She highlighted a "4.5 Vulcans" moment and "evidence of a love story" as "fun things to shoot." She also mentioned a "holodeck episode" with a "loose interpretation" of a "Lucille Ball character," which was a "dream come true" but also "challenging and scary."

Romijn expressed immense pride in the show's efforts to flesh out characters originally introduced over 60 years ago by Gene Roddenberry, acknowledging both the "pressure and support" that comes with it. She feels the "love of the fandom" and would love the possibility of bringing in more TOS characters, such as Khan.

Her "pinch me moment" was stepping onto the bridge of the Enterprise set, describing it as a "360-degree set" and calling it the "greatest moment."

Watch the full interview below.