Ever since the Original Series, stories in the Star Trek franchise have been motivated by curiosity, exploration, and uncovering more about the universe. Unique sci-fi concepts draw viewers in, but of course, these stories wouldn't be engaging without interesting characters. There are fan favorites across every iteration of the franchise, and watching characters from different backgrounds — and different planets — interact is one of the joys of Star Trek. From Kirk and Spock's unlikely friendship to the slow-burn love story between Riker and Troy, these relationships make even the most alien characters relatable. However, Discovery approaches these relationships differently than most shows.