It’s hard to believe but the original “Star Trek” television series debut nearly 60 years ago on September 8, 1966.
Several members of that original crew are no longer with us, but the surviving members will be a part of a big celebration.
The show not only garnered avid loyal fans; but spawned the imaginations of scientists and creators the world over. It wasn’t long before some of creator Gene Roddenberry’s props became real life objects.
Kicking off the 60th anniversary will be a float in the annual Rose Bowl Parade; more shows are planned to add to the growing list in the franchise, and even Lego is getting in on the celebration with some new sets.
In an announcement of the upcoming celebration Paramount said, “the 60th anniversary celebrates “Space for Everybody,” extending an open invitation to celebrate the future that “Star Trek” aspires to — a future of HOPE, a future of EXPLORATION and a future where we rise to the challenge to BE BOLD.”
Roddenberry invited fans “to boldly go where no man has gone before” in an era when the American space program was just gaining its legs as it worked toward landing on the moon. Roddenberry had his intrepid crew going far beyond the moon to explore the entire Milky Way galaxy…and beyond.
As the current White House diligently works to eliminate all vestiges of Gene Roddenberry’s dream of equality and diversity; the Rose Parade float will reflect the, “values of hope, inclusivity, exploration and unity.” And fans can get a glimpse of the new upcoming series “Star Trek: Starfleet Academy” where a group of young cadets work their way through the riggers of joining Starfleet while juggling friendships, love, and enemies.
A new animated series is also planned for You Tube: “Star Trek: Scout”; a show aimed at the younger generation. The first two episodes are available now.
Superhuman Khan Noonian Sing has his own podcast where each week he chronicles his life from Alpha Cetti to uber villain in “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan”.
“Star Trek” will come to life for “brick” fans and Trekkies as the Danish company LEGO creates some new sets.
And next year fans can gain a “once-in-a-lifetime experience” with a cruise. To date Captain Kirk (William Shatner) and Pavel Chekov (Walter Koenig) announced that they will join the cruise.
feature photo courtesy of the Associated Press