Who knew a science fiction show that ran for only three seasons would spawn an animated series, six movies, four more shows following the same universe (with different characters), four more movies (following The Next Generation crew) and a new movie based on the original but set in a parallel universe?

Star Trek debuted in 1966, created by Gene Roddenberry.  It followed the adventures of James T. Kirk, captain of the USS Enterprise, and his valiant crew.  Star Trek was originally intended to be a western set in the stars, an action adventure show with a morality tale in each episode.  The show addressed the issues of the 1960′s, just as the spin off shows of later years addressed issues of their time.  By putting the show in a futuristic setting, Star Trek was able to address sex, politics and even the Vietnam war.

The show was not immensely popular with the network and they threatened to cancel in the second season.  The show was saved by its fan base who wrote letters and petitioned to keep it on the air.  The time slot was moved to Fridays and the budget was lowered substantially.  Gene Roddenberry reduced his role on the set in protest.  Star Trek was cancelled in its third season despite the protests and renewed letter campaign.  It was later discovered that advertisers profited greatly from the show and were upset at its premature cancel, but it was too late to resume filming.

Paramount sold syndication rights and the show started airing reruns in 1972.  A cult following started and the animated series premiered in 1973, airing 22 episodes in two seasons.   Gene then started working on “Star Trek Phase II,” which became Star Trek: The Motion Picture.

The Star Trek franchise cannot be stopped.  Generations have grown up loving and watching Star Trek and I know that many generations yet to come will grow up loving it too.