Was the Original Star Trek a Good Show, and Did NBC Make a Mistake by Cancelling It?

The original Star Trek series, which aired from 1966 to 1969, is widely regarded as a groundbreaking and influential television series. With its diverse cast, exploration of complex social and moral issues, and innovative storytelling, Star Trek has left a lasting legacy in popular culture. While the show faced its share of challenges, including cancellation, its significance and impact have grown over time.

Impact and Lasting Legacy

The Star Trek series introduced the world to a universe that envisioned a future of exploration and cooperation among different species. Its narrative depth, character development, and storytelling innovations have earned it a place as a cult classic and a cornerstone of science fiction. Despite its initial struggles, especially in its second season, its influence on television and popular culture is undeniable. From spin-offs to films, the franchise continues to thrive, thanks to a dedicated fanbase and a robust ecosystem.

ABC Cancellation and Theories

Many fans and critics believe that the cancellation of Star Trek by NBC was a mistake. The show faced challenges in terms of ratings, particularly in its second season. However, in retrospect, its impact on the genre and television is significant. The cancellation may have been a tragic ending for a series that had the potential to complete its five-year mission and continue its exploration of new worlds.

The Best of the Worst

While the third season of Star Trek is often considered the worst, the show still had its moments. In fact, several episodes stand out as notable classics. Here are five episodes that, despite being part of a less successful season, are still considered gems of the series:

The Enterprise Incident The Paradise Syndrome Day of the Dove The Tholian Web Let that Be Your Last Battlefield

These episodes showcase the show's strengths, including rich storytelling, compelling plots, and memorable characters. Fans frequently discuss these episodes, and they continue to be cherished by the Star Trek community.

Challenges and Challenges Behind the Scenes

The cancellation of Star Trek was not just a scheduling decision but a multifaceted issue involving creative and personal conflicts. Creator Gene Roddenberry, while a visionary, also had his share of controversies and challenges. His behavior, including alleged affairs and conflicts with network censors, created a hostile environment that alienated talent and made the show difficult to produce.

Roddenberry's Controversies

Roddenberry's personal conduct was a significant issue throughout the series. His infamous "casting couch" scandal, involving several Trek performers, including Nichelle Nichols and Majel Barrett, who he later married, plagued the show. Additionally, his constant battles with network censors and his micromanagement of the writing process led to a strained relationship with writers and cast members. Despite these issues, Roddenberry's contributions to the show's creation and concept cannot be overlooked.

Ratings and Production Challenges

Despite its initial success, the show faced budgetary challenges and the need to recycle plots to cut costs. The increase in "parallel Earth" stories and Kirk's tendency to talk machinery into self-destruction contributed to a sense that the show was becoming formulaic. These factors, combined with NBC's strategic decision to place the series in a less desirable time slot, contributed to its eventual cancellation.

Alternatives and Lessons Learned

In hindsight, the cancellation of Star Trek may have been a missed opportunity for NBC. The show's syndication success and the popularity of the animated series that followed demonstrate the potential of Star Trek to thrive beyond its original airing. Had NBC managed to navigate some of the challenges faced by the show and by its creator, the series might have been able to complete its mission.

To the Star Trek community, the original series remains a beloved franchise, with a rich tapestry of episodes and a dedicated fanbase. While the cancellation may seem like a tragedy in retrospect, it also serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of managing creative and personal conflicts effectively in the entertainment industry.