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More than seven years ago, Black Mirror launched its fourth season with the memorable episode “USS Callister,” which provided a chilling twist on the Star Trek franchise. Recently, the Netflix anthology series has revisited this iconic narrative with a follow-up episode as part of its seventh season.
The concluding episode of Season 7, titled “USS Callister: Into Infinity,” reunites audiences with the surviving characters from the original tale. Although these characters previously dodged a grim fate, they are now faced with new challenges that require them to contemplate their next steps.
To refresh your memory before diving into the sequel, here’s a recap of the original “USS Callister.”
Recap of the Original “USS Callister”
In the initial episode, Robert Daly, portrayed by Jesse Plemons, is an unstable programmer at Callister Inc. who utilizes his technological prowess to create digital replicas of his coworkers, trapping them in Infinity, the online game that his company produces.
The digital avatars of characters like Nanette Cole (Cristin Milioti), James Walton (Jimmi Simpson), Shania Lowry (Michaela Coel), Karl Valdack (Billy Magnussen), Elena Tulaska (Milanka Brooks), Nate Parker (Osy Ikhile), and Kabir Dudani (Paul G. Raymond) find themselves subjected to Daly’s cruel whims, existing as mere playthings for their creator.
Spurred by Nanette, the group eventually revolts, successfully breaking free from Daly’s control, allowing them access to the broader universe of Infinity. This sets up the central conflict for the sequel: now they must navigate the potential threat posed by the game’s millions of players.
The Notable Cameo
In addition to its Star Trek homage, the episode contains a delightful Easter egg: Kirsten Dunst, Plemons’ real-life partner, makes a brief cameo in the background, adding an intriguing layer to the viewing experience.
Why Was Michaela Coel Absent from the Sequel?
While Milioti, Simpson, Magnussen, Brooks, Ikhile, and Raymond return to reprise their roles, Coel’s character does not make an appearance.
Black Mirror creator Charlie Brooker explained in an interview with Entertainment Weekly that scheduling conflicts prevented Coel from joining the cast for Season 7. The sequel itself provides context for Shania’s absence, which we will leave unspoiled for now.
Public Reaction to “USS Callister: Into Infinity”
The reception for “USS Callister: Into Infinity” has thus far been highly favorable. The original episode remains a standout from Season 4, and early impressions suggest the sequel may earn a similar status. Milioti has received particular acclaim for her impressive dual performance in the new episode.
Cristin Milioti does such a good job in USS Callister: Into Infinity. Her expressions are amazing #BlackMirror pic.twitter.com/750zJp3ZhK
— neganinja (@nonothing67) April 10, 2025
USS Callister: Into Infinity is a stunning return to one of Black Mirror’s best. Cristin Milioti is outstanding, Jimmi Simpson thrives in a darker role, and it belongs on the BIG screen. Epic, emotional, and unforgettable. Just don’t make us wait another 7 years! #BlackMirror pic.twitter.com/eugzsG4pcy
— Heroes And Hype (@heroesandhype) April 10, 2025
“USS Callister: Into Infinity” is a TDK or Two Towers type of sequel. Cristin Milioti is on such a roll right now. #BlackMirror • #BlackMirrorS7 • #blackmirror7 pic.twitter.com/OtN9SoRzV9
— Zande (@KongoZande) April 10, 2025
Black Mirror Season 7 – USS Callister: Into Infinity
By a distance the most conventional work I’ve seen from Brooker, but no less brilliant for it. The best popcorn sci-fi film I’ve seen in the past few years, full of great action, big laughs, and as always, so much heart.
— JP (@jpkesseler) April 8, 2025
USS Callister: Into Infinity is an absolute goddamn treat.
— Scott Bryan (@scottygb) April 10, 2025
Black Mirror Season 7 finishes with the episode “USS Callister: Into Infinity”
Cristin Milioti cooked so hard as Captain Nanette and Real life Nanette. #BlackMirror #CristinMilioti pic.twitter.com/tHuJzqnmZr
— Eishaan (@eishaanix) April 10, 2025
The Possibility of “USS Callister 3”
Without revealing any spoilers from the conclusion, it appears Milioti is open to the idea of another installment. She expressed to Variety, “We haven’t talked about it, but I do trust Charlie’s brain. If he feels there’s another possibility, I would love to talk to him about it.”
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