Star Trek: The Next Generation was more than just a TV show – it was a cultural phenomenon that redefined science fiction on screen.
The series premiered in 1987 and boldly stepped where no TV series had gone before, combining the intelligence of Shakespearean drama with the wonders of interstellar exploration.
The series finale in 1994 drew more than 30 million viewers, and TNG became the gold standard for science fiction storytelling. But beyond the thrilling plots and unforgettable characters, the series holds secrets and surprises that even the most devoted fans may not know about.
Become friends for life
For those unfamiliar with the series, Star Trek: The Next Generation follows the adventures of the starship Enterprise-D as its diverse crew explored uncharted worlds, solved intergalactic mysteries and resolved moral dilemmas. Set 100 years after the events of the original Star Trek, the series features new characters, advanced technology and thought-provoking stories.
But did you know that many of the cast members of Star Trek: The Next Generation became lifelong friends after the series ended. Patrick Stewart (Captain Picard) and Jonathan Frakes (Riker) are known for their hilarious camaraderie, they often exchange laughs at conventions. They keep in close touch, often meeting for dinner, and their incredible chemistry is always evident when they are together.
When LeVar Burton wed in 1992, Brent Spiner was by his side as best man, with Sir Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes and Michael Dorn acting as ushers.
Martina Sirtis hated Michael Dorn
Among the many friendships formed between the cast of The Next Generation, one of the warmest is the bond between Michael Dorn, known for his portrayal of the stoic Lieutenant Worf, and Marina Sirtis, who brought to life the sympathetic counsellor Troy.
‘I’ve always been attracted to very strong women,’ Dorn shared with Buzzfeed.
“I don’t know why. I was just really attracted to our chemistry. We’re just crazy about each other.”
But despite their friendship spanning more than three decades, it didn’t exactly start off smoothly. According to Sirtis’ candid admission, they couldn’t stand each other in the show’s first season. However, over time, their undeniable chemistry brought them closer together, sparking rumours that they might be secretly dating.
Despite the speculation, Sirtis and Dorn have always made it clear – they were not in a romantic relationship then or now.
Starfleet uniforms were very uncomfortable
Star Trek actors are often bombarded with questions about make-up, costumes and iconic masks – apparently this is what fans are most interested in.
Did you know that the original Starfleet uniform was so uncomfortable that Sir Patrick Stewart’s agent was forced to intervene? He even threatened to sue Paramount if Stewart suffered muscle or joint damage from wearing the one-piece spandex suit.
That little scare was enough to upgrade the wardrobe, and by season three, the team had swapped out the stretchy spandex for a more comfortable polyester two-piece.
The unlikely casting of Captain Picard
Believe it or not, Gene Roddenberry, the creator of Star Trek, was not thrilled that Sir Patrick Stewart was chosen for the role of Captain Picard. He preferred a younger captain with a mop of hair. But producer Robert H. Justman was so overwhelmed by Stewart’s talent that he tried his best to get him the role.
After listening to many other actors and finding that none of them and did not come close, Roddenberry finally gave up.
And here’s where it gets funny: at his first meeting with the leaders of Paramount Stewart wore a hairpiece – at the suggestion of producers. They were afraid the studio would reject him because of his baldness. And what happened? After the meeting, the executives agreed to take him on the role, but only on one condition: he had to get rid of the ‘ridiculous wig’.
When the cast of the series was first announced, some media outlets labelled Sir Patrick Stewart as an ‘unknown British Shakespearean actor’. To have a little fun, Brent Spiner created a poster for Stewart’s dressing room that read, ‘Beware: Unknown British Shakespearean Actor!’.
Worf’s forehead was stolen
Michael Dorn, who brought the ferocious Klingon Worf to life, endured a gruelling two-hour make-up process every time he entered the role. But things weren’t always smooth sailing for Worf’s iconic look. In the second season, disaster struck: the original prosthetic forehead was stolen!
This unexpected setback threw the film crew into a panic, and they began creating a replacement in a hurry. The result? Dorn’s character ended up with a completely different forehead, which gave him a slightly altered appearance.
Wheaton’s priceless response
When the cast decided to seek a pay raise, Wil Wheaton got a promotion for his character Wesley Crusher in lieu of a raise.