Why Did Kes Leave Voyager: The Tragedy Of Jennifer Lien & Her Star Trek Character

The following article discusses mental health.

When "Star Trek: Voyager" premiered in 1995, it had the virtue of subverting the brand for the better. Not only was Captain Janeway (Kate Mulgrew) the first female captain in the franchise, but the show's concept also took a turn. Instead of going on a five-year diplomatic mission famous in the "Star Trek" lexicon, the Voyager crew tries to find their way home after getting lost in the Delta Quadrant. "Voyager" had a cast of unprecedented characters, including that of the Ocampa, Kes (Jennifer Lien). Kes was fascinating because of her use of telepathy and streamlined life span of only nine years. She offered many interesting opportunities for the series, but unfortunately, it didn't come to fruition. After only three years on the show, Lien left the series — a loss for many behind the scenes.

Speaking to "Star Trek Monthly," Mulgrew said the following regarding Lien's departure: "A great sorrow to me on many levels, foremost among them being the fracturing of an ensemble cast that was extremely special to me." At the time, the reasons for Lien leaving the show were a little murky. Writers confessed to feeling they wrote themselves into a corner with her character. But in later years, a sadder truth was revealed. Lien's mental health became increasingly unstable, and despite best intentions, the "Star Trek" producers had no other option but to release her from her contract.

Letting Jennifer Lien go had not been the production's first choice. Though specifics on the actor's condition were never offered, she had been dealing with it for some time. As her performance started to deteriorate, the crew tried to help.

"We knew that there was something going on," producer Jeri Taylor said in "Star Trek Voyager: A Celebration," the 2020 book revolving around the series. "But she wouldn't talk or let us offer to help." With no other foreseeable options, showrunners decided to write her out of the show. Her departure occurred at the beginning of Season 4 when Kes' telepathic abilities spiral out of control, resulting in her transforming into an orb of energy. 

Unfortunately for Lien, quitting acting was not the solution. The former "Voyager" star had brushes with the law, including an incident where she was arrested for indecent exposure. Per Variety, Lien exposed herself to children in 2015, reportedly resisting arrest and threatening violence against the arresting officers. After paying restitution, she stayed out of the public eye until 2018, when WATE 6 reported she was arrested for driving on a revoked license.

If you or someone you know needs help with mental health, please contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741, call the National Alliance on Mental Illness helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), or visit the National Institute of Mental Health website.