Ethan Peck, who plays Spock in "Star Trek: Strange New Worlds," reflects on the significant influence of his grandfather, legendary actor Gregory Peck, on his own career. He notes that being born into a family with such a high level of public recognition and success, particularly through his grandfather's iconic role as Atticus Finch in "To Kill a Mockingbird," provided him with a sense of achievable success and an openness to unique opportunities. Peck views his career path as a journey to earn his place within his family's legacy, appreciating the foundation it provided while also seeking his own identity.
Peck also addresses the other major legacy he carries: portraying Spock, a character made famous by Leonard Nimoy and later played by Zachary Quinto. He describes feeling uniquely prepared for this role, suggesting a serendipitous connection to its demands. He acknowledges the weight of both his grandfather's esteemed public image as a noble force and icon, and the immense reverence for Spock within the "Star Trek" fandom. This dual legacy has been a significant aspect of his public and professional life.
Initially, Peck admits he wanted to distance himself from parts of his family's legacy approximately ten to fifteen years ago. However, he now expresses pride and gratitude for his role as Spock and being part of the "Star Trek" universe. He is focused on enjoying his journey, understanding himself better, and putting his own personality into the character, while being at ease with the iconic status of both his grandfather and the role he now embodies. His initial casting as Spock for "Star Trek: Discovery" in 2019, which is set a decade prior to the original series, marked a significant moment in his career.
