Avery Brooks' Voice Returns for DS9 Homage

The latest installment of Starfleet Academy, "Series Acclimation Mil," provides a significant epilogue for Deep Space Nine and Benjamin Sisko. While Sisko's ultimate whereabouts remain a mystery since the 1999 series finale, the episode includes a vocal cameo from Avery Brooks, the first time he has appeared in Star Trek in over 25 years. This installment directly addresses the scarcity of Sisko's appearances since DS9 concluded.

The vocal cameo features Brooks reciting lines from his 2006 album, "Here...," chosen by the writers for its thematic resonance. Executive producers confirmed overtures were made to bring Brooks back for an on-camera role, but his blessing was secured for the audio-only appearance. The episode is described as an homage to Sisko and a celebration of his sacrifices within the Star Trek universe.

Sisko's departure in the DS9 finale, "What You Leave Behind," saw him join the Prophets in another realm, making a return to the mortal plane impossible during his son Jake's and wife Kassidy's lifetimes. Cirroc Lofton, reprising his role as Jake, expressed that the series felt overlooked by producers after its run. He also played a key role in facilitating Brooks' vocal contribution, securing permission to use the audio excerpt.

While the episode does not definitively answer where Sisko resides, it explores the enduring mystery of his fate. Holographic cadet Sam investigates Sisko's disappearance for a class assignment, encountering faculty like the holographic Doctor and referencing past Star Trek continuity. The narrative concludes with Jake, as a hologram and later in a shared space, interacting with Sam, offering a poignant resolution for his character's arc.