My limited understanding is that the studio is paying for that actor to appear in every episode, regardless of if the actor is necessary. So to get their money’s worth, they appear in throwaway scenes.
Obviously depends on the contract, and it’s just as probable that I’m talking out my bum.
I was dubious going into this video. I was expecting a tirade about how Picard should’ve doubled down on nostalgia from day 1 and villainizing Patrick Stewart for wanting to do something different.
Instead I got a very thoughtful analysis about fundamental mistakes made by the writers that put them in the train wreck that it became—wanting to try something new, but not committing; over thinking TNG and under thinking Picard as it’s own thing.
I also strongly agree that Picard as a space Indiana Jones series would’ve worked so much better than a washed up vineyarder. I’m honestly surprised that I never considered this until watching this video.