Star Trek’s Original Series Could’ve Been A Lot Different Had One Suggested Change Been Used, And I’m Thrilled Another Show Did It Decades Later

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Despite the release of “Star Trek: Section 31” being accessible for Paramount+ subscribers, there’s a slight gap until the next “Trek” series premieres, leaving a suitable moment to re-explore past masterpieces like the original series. While many fans might label it as flawless, one notable alteration during its creation could have transformed the series into an entirely different show than the one we’ve grown fond of.

Thankfully, “Star Trek” is adept at rectifying past errors, and finally, the series has reached a point where a contemporary adaptation can capitalize on changes the initial series failed to implement. Although it’s better late than never, I can’t help but ponder how distinct the original show might have been if they had embraced a fresh approach to episode structures earlier on. Let’s delve into this possibility.

Deforest Kelley Shared A Change Star Trek Considered But Never Made

In a 1995 conversation with Star Trek Communicator, DeForest Kelley expressed his belief that the Dr. Leonard “Bones” McCoy character could have been developed more extensively beyond the episodes actually made (as hinted in Redshirts Always Die). Specifically, he recalled an idea proposed during either the second or third season that could have led to this deeper exploration, focusing on other bridge crew members instead of just Captain Kirk, as suggested by Kelley.

In the second or third season of the show, there were discussions about switching the main character focus each week, rotating between Kirk, Spock, and then McCoy.

Regrettably, the Star Trek universe didn’t materialize the concept initially, but Leonard Nimoy (Bones) made a significant appearance in The Next Generation years later. Although it wasn’t implemented then, the essence of the idea persisted and found its way into another live-action series, which is now highlighting characters from the original Starship crew prior to their association with “Kirk’s Enterprise.

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Gives O.G. Characters A Chance To Shine

In “Strange New Worlds”, the story unfolds prior to the original series in the timeline, yet characters familiar from the original series appear. This spin-off allows us to delve deeper into key characters who didn’t get much screen time in the original, and even explore Kirk’s life before he took command of the “Enterprise”. It has been confirmed that Paul Wesley will reprise his character for Season 4, ensuring that we’ll continue to uncover more about Kirk in the upcoming episodes.

As a die-hard Star Trek fan, I can’t help but feel the anticipation building for Dr. McCoy’s arrival in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. Although he hasn’t made an appearance yet, it certainly seems plausible that we’ll see him before the series concludes. Just like Scotty, who materialized on board during Season 2, we’ve also been granted a glimpse into Spock’s former love interest T’Pring’s past.

It would have been delightful if the original Star Trek series chose to evolve its narrative style in line with subsequent shows within the franchise. Nevertheless, I’m thrilled that these characters are finally getting their stories told, even if it’s not through the original vessel.

As a dedicated Star Trek fan, I eagerly anticipate the premiere of Season 3 of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, slated for 2025. The thought of Bones gracing our screens once more has me brimming with excitement. However, I can’t help but ponder over the potential implications if he were to make an appearance in this season – it might just reshape the series’ final act for him.

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2025-01-30 22:37