The Animated Series: Does Star Trek: The Animated Series Belong in the Canon?

Gene Roddenberry, the creator of Star Trek, once declared that only live-action series and movies should be considered part of the Star Trek canon. This decision has led to a long-standing debate among the fan community: Is Star Trek: The Animated Series (TAS) a true part of Star Trek’s canon? To answer this question, we need to delve into the history of the show, its production, and its place in the broader Star Trek universe.

The Genesis of the Animated Series

Origins and Production

Produced by DC Fontana, Star Trek: The Animated Series (often referred to as TAS) aired from 1973 to 1974. The series was a unique blend of animated and live-action segments, featuring original characters and storylines that were designed to appeal to a younger audience. Despite its animated format, TAS adheres to the core principles and ideals of the original Star Trek series, which was a groundbreaking show for its time.

The Animated Series' Place in the Canon

Gene Roddenberry's Decisive Hand

Gene Roddenberry, the visionary behind Star Trek, had a clear stance on what constituted the show's canon. He believed that only live-action series and films should be considered canon, which directly excluded the animated series. This decision was based on several factors, including the medium of the show and the potential long-term implications of certain storylines.

Comparison with Live-Action Series

Technical and Storytelling Differences

While Star Trek: The Animated Series strove to maintain the integrity of the original series, there were several technical and storytelling differences that made it difficult to reconcile with later live-action series and films. These include:

Starships and characters featuring unconventional props or technology, such as devices that could serve as personal space suits or shield generators. Plot elements that seemed to diverge from the established canon, such as Spock’s ability to manipulate magic, which referenced external mythologies and universes. Inconsistencies with established character traits and behaviors, such as Spock’s interactions or character development.

The Future of the Animated Series in the Canon

Modern Reassessments

However, times have changed. With the introduction of new series like Lower Decks and Progeny, the official Star Trek franchise has begun to reconsider its stance on the animated series. Many fans and creators have argued that including TAS as part of the canon could enrich the Star Trek universe and provide a deeper, more comprehensive exploration of its characters and settings.

On the other hand, some argue that maintaining the separation between the animated series and live-action series is necessary to preserve the original vision and continuity of the live-action shows. This debate continues, with new episodes and series pushing the boundaries and perhaps challenging the traditional lines of what is and isn't canonical.

Personal Perspectives

The Scholar's Perspective

For many, especially those who grew up with the show, Star Trek: The Animated Series holds a special place in their hearts. Despite its differences, TAS remains an important part of the Star Trek canon, representing a unique and valuable contribution to the franchise. The official Star Trek Concordance by Bjo Trimble, published in 1976, even listed TAS episodes and characters as canon, further cementing its place in the fan community's hearts and minds.

The show’s broadcast coincided with a time when the internet and formal fan networks were still in their infancy, and the concept of a comprehensive Star Trek canon was not as well-established as it is today. As such, TAS was accepted as part of the canon by many fans, including those who were too young to understand the nuances of canon status.

In conclusion, while Gene Roddenberry’s decision to exclude the animated series from the Star Trek canon is understandable, the series still holds a special place in the hearts of fans and can be seen as an important part of the Star Trek franchise. The ongoing debate about its place in the canon highlights the complexity and depth of the Star Trek universe, and it continues to be a topic of discussion for both fans and creators alike.