Played By: Robert Duncan McNeill
In 2371 Tom Paris is stranded in the Delta Quadrant aboard a ship with Starfleet and Maquis crewmembers who can agree on only one thing — Tom Paris is irresponsible and no good. Other than Captain Janeway, who needs his piloting skills, Paris' only friend is Harry Kim.
However, the problems of being in the Delta Quadrant are so overwhelming that the presence of Paris is not a primary concern and he has the chance to prove himself reliable, brave, and clever at the helm.
Paris also authors badly needed diversions for the crew, beginning with Chez Sandrine, a holographic dive from his days in France. Though classified as immature and a womanizer, Paris is accepted by his crewmates.
In 2372 Tom Paris pretends to leave the ship as part of a daring, and dangerous, strategy that exposes the last Kazon-Nistrim spy on Voyager. This success solidifies Paris' standing on Voyager and clarifies his own understanding that working within a system does not mean giving up his identity or free will. He becomes one of the most respected members of the crew, often saving the ship when all seems lost.
Paris continues to provide a party atmosphere when needed, and uses the holodeck for his 20th-century hobbies. He also works with engineering and other disciplines to design a shuttlecraft capable of warp 10, becoming the first human to achieve infinite velocity, and develop two versions of a Delta Quadrant-specific ship — the second with a unique Captain Proton-style interface.
In 2374 Paris also becomes the Doctor's assistant, forcing him to learn even more about the feelings of others.
In 2375 Paris has a crises of conscience over a Delta Quadrant water world. He disobeys orders and the Prime Directive, and must serve 30 days in the brig. For the first time, though, he's broken the rules over principle and is able to find closure with his father by way of a letter home.
Paris' interests in women also evolve over the years from flirtations and uncommitted seductions to a focused interest on B'Elanna Torres. The two begin a rocky romance in 2374 and, primarily through Paris' determination to withstand Torres' personal demons, they wed in 2377. Soon Paris learns he's to be a father, a responsibility he welcomes with joy, some trepidation, and, of course, good humor.
