 The character of Tom Paris was inspired by another Star Trek  character, Cadet Nick Locarno from the Star Trek: The Next  Generation episode "The First Duty," who was also played by  McNeill, Robert Duncan (qv). The creators decided they wanted a  character "like" the cadet, and ended up with one who practically  differed in name only. Ironically, McNeill was cast in the role as  an afterthought.