Posted by Jonathan Klotz | Published
Part of what you did Babylon 5 a unique sci-fi experience that J. Michael Straczynski wrote the entire story in advance. There were unexpected setbacks, such as losing series lead Michael O’Hare after only one season, but there were successes he didn’t see coming, most notably Minbari Warrior Caste member Neroon becoming a fan favorite.
If JMS had seen this coming, Neroon probably would have appeared in more than five episodes during the series. As it is, his entire appearance was turned into a highlight of the episode, if not the entire season.
The greatest Warrior of the Minbari
Neroon was brought to life by John Vickery, a prolific actor who made several appearances on Star Trek in the 90s as various aliens. His distinctive voice brought a level of authority and gravity to Neroon, whether he was threatening people, praising people, or extolling the virtues of a Minbari Caste Warrior. Space station Babylon 5 was used by hundreds of different species every day, and to Neroon, they were all under Minbari.
In his first appearance, Neroon investigates the disappearance of Minbari leader Bramner’s body, with Babylon 5’s security chief Michael Garibaldi (Jerry Doyle) as his prime suspect. The two come to an agreement, and for once, Neroon begins to appreciate humanity. Then came his duel with Ranger Marcus Cole (Jason Carter) in “Grey 17 is Missing.” Cole is completely outmatched by Neroon, one of the greatest warriors in the galaxy, but nevertheless, Cole is willing to risk his life in the service of Delenn (Mira Furlan), a member of the Minbari Religious Caste. Both survived the battle to the death, but, as Nero admitted, half of him died in battle.
One of the best Sci-Fi Characters
“Grey 17 is Missing” is Neroon’s third appearance Babylon 5. In his next appearance, it is clear that the loud hero is a little different. He is very open to Delenn and the Religious Caste, and when the Minbari Civil War rages, he works to make a peaceful truce. At the top. As viewers find out, he has his own Minbari goals while staying true to the traditions of the Warrior Caste. Neroon’s final appearance in the series is one of the show’s best moments and the perfect way to end his story. Except it’s coming to Season 4.
Babylon 5 was going to end in Season 4, so JMS stepped up events to get to the end of the show before canceling. The renewal of Season 5 threw off his plans, and while some things were able to be delayed (most notably Londo and the Centaurians), Neroon and the Minbari were wrapped up too early. The fans were denied more time with the noble hero, but again, the calling of his heart was religious, the calling of his honor was war. Five episodes was all it took for a great sci-fi character arc.
You can broadcast Babylon 5 on The Roku Channel or YouTube, but we don’t recommend that. 30 years later, John Vickery’s work as Neroon is part of why it remains one of the best sci-fi shows of all time.
