In episode four of season two, “The Outrageous Okona,” we meet a “rogue” played by Billy Campbell. The Enterprise comes across Thadiun Okona, the self-described rakish character with a huge eye for the ladies. It was hard to keep track, but Okona beds four to five crewmembers the first day he’s on board, one of which might be actress Terry Hatcher – Superman where are you now?
Andrew and Dave use the term “Mary Sue” to describe Okona, and it goes something like this:
Andrew: Okona is clearly what we would call a “Mary Sue.” This idealizing character that is clearly a projection of what the writer wants to be. The writer wants to be “a rogue.” It’s so PAINFUL, the way they foreground all this stuff and spill it out in a painfully obvious, clichéd, ham fisted way.
Troi even comes out and gives you a list of adjectives for this guy.
Dave: Right, it’s like when Data’s accessing, and lists: “What is a rogue”… but she’s (Troi’s), not listing what a rogue is. She’s listing what a Mary Sue is which is a term for a… poorly drafted character who thinks too much of themselves and is as shallow as shit, and that’s what this guy is…
Andrew: He’s very shallow.
Dave: And it’s the writing. Diana Troi for once – there’s been a few times when she’s been able to use her abilities but this one she knocks right out of the park! She sees this guy on the view screen and she’s like…
Andrew: She says he’s mischievous, irreverent…
Dave: Right.
Andrew: …Somewhat brazen. The word that best describes him is “rogue.” And then Data has to continue because he’s like a walking thesaurus and it’s a gag that comes up all the time. “Cat, knave, rascal, villain, wild element…”
PICARD: ENOUGH DATA!
Andrew: Oh my bloody god. I get it, and if you don’t get it, his ship is called the Erstwhile for God’s sake. He’s got a pirate shirt with billowy sleeves. He’s got a flashy vest. He’s got these boots
Dave: It’s silly.
Andrew: And that pony tail! Ay dios mio!