When TNG Ended: How Writers Decided to Continue Star Trek

The decision to continue Star Trek after The Next Generation (TNG) was a complex one driven by both creative visions and business strategies. This article explores the reasoning behind the creation of Star Trek: Voyager and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (DS9), shedding light on the creative and practical considerations that shaped these iconic shows.

The Success of The Next Generation

With the overwhelming success of The Next Generation, the producers and Paramount knew they had a unique opportunity to launch another Star Trek series. However, they made a conscious decision to avoid having two ship-based shows running concurrently. This choice was rooted in two key reasons:

The concepts would be too similar, potentially diluting the unique features of each show. A space station was considered more interesting for viewers and less expensive to produce, requiring less on-location shooting.

Originally, the plan for Deep Space Nine (DS9) was set on a colony rather than a space station. However, the creative team decided that a space station would offer more exciting and varied adventure opportunities, making the setting even more compelling.

The Decision to Launch Voyager

After the end of The Next Generation as a TV series, Paramount still wanted to continue with two Star Trek shows. Given that many of the TNG cast members were still active in movies, a new ship-based series would allow for continuity with both TV and film universes. In contrast, Voyager offered a fresh premise with a "lesser" Starfleet vessel stranded far from home, providing a unique and compelling narrative distinct from TNG.

The Concurrent Airing Decision

A key point is that Voyager and DS9 did not air simultaneously. Star Trek: The Next Generation and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine coexisted for 16 months, airing concurrently. This simultaneity made the decision to have DS9 set on a space station clear. According to Michael Piller, one of the creators of DS9, to stand apart from TNG and offer unique adventures, the characters needed to have adventures come to them, rather than constantly embarking on space voyages.

Brandon Tartikoff, the head of Paramount, emphasized the need for a new sci-fi show with a "father-son show" concept similar to 'The Rifleman.' This creative inspiration led to the development of Sisko and Jake, a pivotal dynamic that distinguished DS9 from TNG.

Behind the Scenes: Clear Vision and Practical Considerations

The decision to create next-generation Star Trek series involved a blend of creative vision and practical business strategies. The opportunity to maintain dual universes without duplicating ideas was a significant factor. The need for varied and unique adventures for the crew of DS9, facilitated by the stationary setting, provided a distinct and compelling narrative.

These decisions not only shaped the landscape of Star Trek with two iconic series but also set the stage for future adventures across the franchise. The successful execution of Voyager and DS9 solidified the legacy of Star Trek, showcasing the benefits of diversification and unique storytelling.

While the shows experienced challenges in their later seasons, the initial framing of Voyager and DS9 as distinct offerings has left a lasting impact on the Star Trek franchise.