What species is Guinan from Star Trek: The Next Generation?

Guinan is an El-Aurian in Star Trek: The Next Generation.

Guinan is the mysterious bartender of Ten Forward, the social lounge aboard the USS Enterprise-D. Played by Whoopi Goldberg, she is known as an exceptionally perceptive “listener” whose long life and unusual insight make her a trusted confidante of Captain Jean-Luc Picard. Although she is not a regular bridge officer, her advice repeatedly helps the crew navigate personal and political crises.

Guinan’s species suffered a devastating encounter with the Borg. El-Aurian survivors were scattered across the galaxy, and Guinan was rescued from the Nexus by the USS Enterprise-B in Star Trek Generations. Her species is sometimes confused with other recurring Star Trek peoples: Trill are symbiotic hosts, Betazoids are telepaths, and Q are powerful extradimensional beings. Guinan is none of those, though her age and abilities can make her seem almost supernatural.

The character first appeared in TNG’s second-season premiere, “The Child,” and later returned in Star Trek Generations, Star Trek: Nemesis, and Star Trek: Picard. Her name was inspired by Texas Guinan, a real Prohibition-era entertainer and nightclub owner.