Klyden
A Moclan husband and father, bound by tradition and family.
Klyden is a recurring character in the second season of The Orville, portrayed by Chad L. Coleman. He is the Moclan husband of Lieutenant Commander Bortus and the father of their child, Topa. Klyden's relationship with Bortus and his views on Moclan traditions play a significant role in the season's exploration of Moclan society and gender norms.
Quick Facts
- Affiliation
- Moclus
- First appearance
- Second season of The Orville
- Role
- Recurring character
Lore & Background
Klyden is introduced as the mate of Bortus, a Moclan officer aboard the USS Orville. As a Moclan, Klyden adheres to the strict gender norms of his homeworld, Moclus, where only one gender is recognized. This creates tension when Bortus and Klyden's child, Topa, is born female—a rarity on Moclus. Klyden initially supports the Moclan practice of assigning the child male, leading to conflict with Bortus and the Orville crew. The season revisits Moclus, where Klyden's traditionalist views are further explored, particularly in episodes dealing with Moclan customs and the couple's evolving relationship.
Reader's Guide
Klyden appears in multiple episodes of the second season, primarily in storylines involving Moclan culture and family dynamics. His key episodes include those dealing with Topa's birth and the subsequent custody dispute, as well as the crew's return to Moclus. Klyden is portrayed as a traditionalist who values Moclan customs, but he is also shown to care deeply for his family. His relationship with Bortus evolves as they navigate parenthood and cultural expectations. Chad L. Coleman's performance brings a stern yet vulnerable quality to the character, making Klyden a complex figure who challenges both the Orville crew and the audience to consider the weight of tradition versus individual rights.
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