“Night Class” is a History channel digital series that takes viewers through key moments in history, examining fascinating and, in some case, largely unknown or ignored occurrences and themes that have helped shape the world in ways that may not be immediately obvious.

A feature of “Night Class” is “Black History with Diallo & Bashir” – comedians/writers/actors Diallo Riddle and Bashir Salahuddin, whose names hopefully are familiar to you, even if only thanks to the HBO series they created and were to star in, that the premium cable TV network passed on earlier this year (we covered it from the initial announcement in 2015).




In the most recent episode of “Black History with Diallo & Bashir” (and, thus far, the only episode available), which History uploaded to its YouTube channel this afternoon, Diallo and Bashir talk black people in science fiction TV series and movies, with guest actor Tim Russ, a “Star Trek” universe alum.

Fans of the actor (or “Star Trek”) will know that Russ has been extensively involved in the Star Trek franchise, as a voice and film actor, writer, director and producer. He played several minor roles before landing the role as the main character Tuvok, a member of the Vulcan species who serves as Chief of Security and Chief Tactical Officer, on “Star Trek: Voyager.” Russ portrayed Tuvok throughout the show’s run, from 1995 to 2001. What may not be widely-known is that Russ screen-tested for the role of Geordi La Forge on “Star Trek: The Next Generation” which would eventually go to LeVar Burton. But Tuvok came calling years later.

His “Black History” conversation with Diallo and Bashir, they talk about the “Star Trek” franchise’s progressive politics and the lack of diversity (specifically the absence of black characters) in science fiction and fantasy in Hollywood. It’s only 5 minutes long, so the conversation isn’t in-depth, but it’s worth watching; and I appreciate that they’re giving Tim Russ some love.

Watch “Black History with Diallo & Bashir” below: