Leslie Nielsen and the Star Trek Origin Story: The Misconception Around His Rejection of the Role
Introduction to Leslie Nielsen and Star Trek
The misconception surrounding writer-producer Gene Roddenberry not offering the role of Captain James T. Kirk to Leslie Nielsen for the second Star Trek pilot is one often repeated but largely fabricated. This article aims to clarify this myth and uncover the truth about Nielsen's involvement, or rather, his dear connection to another pivotal character that indirectly inspired the creation of Captain Kirk.
The True Story: Leslie Nielsen and Forbidden Planet
Leslie Nielsen, born in 1926, was a renowned character actor with a distinctive presence and humor that made him a favorite in many classic films. While it is well-known that he was not offered the role of Captain James T. Kirk, a lesser-known aspect of his career sheds light on how he influenced the Star Trek saga.
It was not just an offer he turned down; instead, it was his portrayal of Commander J.J. Adams in the iconic 1956 sci-fi film Forbidden Planet that left a lasting impression on the creator of Star Trek, Gene Roddenberry.
The Impact of Forbidden Planet
Gene Roddenberry was deeply influenced by the imagery and concepts in Forbidden Planet. The iconic spaceship, the themes of exploring alien worlds and the classic roles of the captains, were all part of the inspiration that helped shape Star Trek. Although Roddenberry would later deny any direct influence, the similarities in the approach and aesthetics are unmistakable.
Douglas Spencer's Rejection
It is important to note that Lloyd Bridges, another prominent actor of the era, was initially offered the role of Captain Kirk before he decided not to pursue it. This decision was independently made without any direct involvement from Nielsen or Roddenberry.
Direct Influence on Star Trek
In a 1964 memo to Herb Solow and the Star Trek production team, Roddenberry explicitly acknowledged the influence of Forbidden Planet on the development of the show. Roddenberry wrote:
"You may recall we saw MGM’s FORBIDDEN PLANET with Oscar Katz some weeks ago. I think it would be interesting for Pato Guzman to take another very hard look at the spaceship its configurations controls instrumentations etc. while we are still sketching and planning our own. Can you suggest the best way Run the film again or would it be ethical to get a print of the film and have our people make stills from some of the appropriate frames This latter would be the most helpful. Please understand we have no intention of copying either interior or exterior of that ship. But a detailed look at it again would do much to stimulate our own thinking. Also would much appreciate it if you could provide me with a credit list on that picture specifically the director art director special effects men etc. Thank you." - Gene Roddenberry, 1964