Nathan Bridger

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Nathan Bridger
[[Image:|200px|Nathan Bridger]]
Name	Nathan Hale Bridger
Age	{{{age}}}
Homeworld	test
Birth place	{{{birthplace}}}
Birth Name	{{{birthname}}}
Birth Date	{{{birthdate}}}
Callsign	{{{callsign}}}
Nickname	{{{nickname}}}
Introduced	To Be or Not to Be
Death	{{{death}}}
Parents	{{{parents}}}
Siblings	{{{siblings}}}
Children	Robert Bridger (believed KIA)
Marital Status	Widowed, Carol Bridger
Family Tree	View
Role	{{{role}}}
Species	{{{species}}}
Rank	Captain
Serial Number	{{{serial}}}
Portrayed by	Roy Schider
Additional Information
Nathan Bridger in the separate continuity
Nathan Bridger in the primary continuity
[[Image:|200px|Nathan Bridger]]

Nathan Bridger is a complex and intriguing character introduced as a former naval captain and submarine commander who is now a marine geologist with an advanced degree. He is described as having a deep tan, scruffy beard, and wearing casual clothes like a Hawaiian shirt, shorts, and sandals, which is a stark contrast to the military personnel around him. Bridger is initially presented as a somewhat eccentric and reluctant figure, seemingly uninterested in the military and formal procedures. He is found living a secluded life on a tropical island, with a penchant for eating freshly caught fish and doing his research.

Bridger's past is revealed to be significant. He was once a decorated naval captain and submarine commander, but he left the military under circumstances that are not fully explained at first. However, it is later revealed that Bridger left the Navy because of the death of his wife and son. He expresses that he "promised his wife [he]'d never have anything to do with the military again". This personal tragedy seems to have profoundly affected him, leading to his isolation and his focus on his scientific work. Bridger is shown to be a brilliant scientist with a passion for deep ocean exploration, and he is known for his work on topography and thermal range variances.

Despite his initial reluctance, Bridger is drawn back into the world of military and political conflict due to his expertise and the pressing need for a leader aboard the seaQuest. It's revealed that the United Earth/Oceans Organization sought him out because they knew they needed someone with a "cool head" and who could understand the science behind their mission. Admiral Noyce lures him back with the offer of a research vessel, emphasizing that the seaQuest is a peace keeping vessel, not a warship. Bridger is skeptical but agrees to join the ship’s crew.

Once aboard the seaQuest, Bridger's unconventional methods and his ability to quickly grasp complex situations become apparent. He demonstrates a willingness to challenge authority and think outside of the box, which often clashes with the more rigid military protocol followed by officers like Commander Ford. He quickly assumes an informal command, guiding the crew through several crises with quick thinking and problem solving skills. In a critical moment, it is Bridger who takes command of the ship when it is under attack, demonstrating his leadership capabilities. He does not hesitate to take the helm of the ship when given the chance, and he has a plan to help save the crew from the renegade sub.

Bridger also shows a strong sense of responsibility and compassion, particularly for those under his command. He is concerned about the lives of the people at the Gedrick power station when the station is under attack and takes decisive actions to prevent harm to them. Bridger is also protective of Darwin, his dolphin companion. He is loyal to the dolphin and trusts him, relying on Darwin's unique abilities in a critical moment.

By the end of the episode, Bridger's leadership is clearly established, and he has earned the respect of the crew, including Commander Ford. He is offered command of the ship by Ford, which he initially refuses, seeing himself as more of an observer than a leader. His final interactions with the holographic image of his former mentor also seem to indicate that he is a unique individual with great potential for leadership, even though he doesn't seem to want that for himself.

In summary, Nathan Bridger is a complex character who transitions from a reluctant scientist to a capable leader, using his intellect, compassion, and unconventional methods to navigate a series of crises on the seaQuest. He is not initially interested in power or authority, but he steps up when the situation requires it and is ultimately recognized for his leadership abilities by the rest of the crew.