Did George Takei Get an Audition for Star Trek Due to their Same Production Company?
There is no evidence to suggest that George Takei had an audition for Star Trek simply because he appeared in an episode of Mission: Impossible. In fact, despite the fact that the two shows were produced by the same production company and filmed on the same studio lot, there is no record of George being directly involved in the auditions for Star Trek. However, it is worth exploring the intriguing connection between these two iconic productions.
Star Trek and Mission: Impossible: A Production House Phenomenon
Both Star Trek and Mission: Impossible were produced by Desilu Productions, one of the most prominent production companies during the Golden Age of television. Desilu, founded by Lucille Ball and her actor-husband Desi Arnaz, was known for its ability to produce high-quality television shows while maintaining a tight production schedule. As a result, it was not uncommon for performers to appear in multiple Desilu shows.
It is a well-documented fact that Star Trek started production in 1964, while George Takei's notable appearance in "Mission: Impossible" did not occur until 1966. This timeline clearly demonstrates that George was already filming Star Trek when Desilu assigned him to appear in Mission: Impossible. Despite this, there was still considerable crossover between the two productions.
Desilu: A Hub of Cross-Pollination
While George Takei's direct involvement in Star Trek was not a result of an audition for Mission: Impossible, it is important to understand how these shows were interrelated. Desilu Productions was known for its unique ability to bring together talented actors, writers, and producers, creating a network of collaborative opportunities. This production hub often led to actors appearing in multiple Desilu shows due to the same reasons Hollywood actors of the time were on contract.
Hollywood actors under contract would be required to appear in a certain number of movies or TV shows as specified by the studios. Production companies such as Desilu aimed to maximize the value of their stars by placing them in a variety of productions, often filming these shows on the same lot. This practice, known as cross-pollination, explains why George Takei found himself starring in both Star Trek and Mission: Impossible. The shows, although separate, shared resources and talent, creating a sort of symbiotic relationship.
George Takei's Career with Desilu
George Takei was with Desilu Productions for several projects before appearing in Mission: Impossible. In fact, he started his extensive career with Desilu as an extra in "Branded" in 1961, which was notably filmed on the same lot as Star Trek. His acting career continued to grow until he was eventually cast in Star Trek, a show that would go on to become a cornerstone of science fiction and popular culture.
Takei's involvement with Desilu also provided him with valuable networking opportunities. By appearing in various shows, he gained recognition within the industry and eventually secured a role in Star Trek. The interconnectedness of Desilu's productions played a significant role in his trajectory as a professional actor.
Conclusion
Despite the fascinating overlap between Star Trek and Mission: Impossible, there is no indication that George Takei auditioned for Star Trek due to his appearance in Mission: Impossible. However, the shared production house and the cross-pollination of talent between the two shows provide a rich tapestry of casting and networking that explains how Takei became a major star in both productions. The interconnection between Desilu’s productions and the contracts bound to these productions offers a deeper insight into the Hollywood of the era.
While George Takei's path to Star Trek was a unique blend of talent, industry connections, and the unique environment created by Desilu Productions, it did not begin with an audition for either show. Instead, it was the result of the collaborative nature of television production in the 1960s.