The Gap Between TOS and TNG: A Comprehensive Analysis

One cannot discuss the Star Trek franchise without addressing the sizable gap between The Original Series (TOS) and The Next Generation (TNG). This period is often marked by questions of production quality, network support, and the changing landscape of television syndication. This article aims to uncover the reasons behind the significant gap and explore how the series evolved from TOS to TNG.

Production Challenges and the Rise of Syndication

The production of TOS, which aired from 1966 to 1969, initially faced numerous challenges. As a relatively expensive show, it did not receive the support it needed, leading to issues such as subpar costumes, limited special effects, and underpaid actors and writers. Additionally, the show suffered from low ratings, which made it harder to justify a continuation. After the third season, TOS was relegated to a Friday night timeslot, significantly reducing its visibility and ratings.

NBC is often criticized for its lack of support. The decision to air the series on a Friday at 10 PM was seen as giving up on the show, and it ultimately led to many writers walking out after the second season and a reduction in advertising efforts. Gene Rodenberry, the creator and producer, also seemed to lose interest in the series after the time slot change, knowing that the network's decisions meant the end was near for TOS.

Shift to Syndication and the Emergence of TNG

The landscape of television had changed by the late 1980s and early 1990s, marking a critical shift in the fate of the Star Trek series. Syndication played a significant role in the resurgence of TOS. Local affiliates could now choose whether to air the series, leading to more diverse and flexible schedules. In cities, TOS could be aired during mid-week prime time slots, while in rural areas, it might be broadcast at later night on weekends. This flexibility allowed TOS to find its audience and maintain some level of traction.

However, budget constraints still existed, but they were not as severe as those imposed by NBC in the early years of TOS. By the 1980s, the success of the Star Trek movies began to impact the perception of the series. These films, particularly The Motion Picture, helped convince networks and audiences that science fiction could be financially viable, provided it was well executed with quality acting, special effects, and compelling stories. This led to a shift in network attitudes toward TNG.

The Journey to TNG and the Impact of Sci-Fi Representation

The journey to TNG was far from smooth. By the late 1960s, TOS had wrapped up after three seasons with low ratings, making it difficult to sell a follow-up series. As UHF stations sought programming, TOS became available and was more easily accepted by the audience, although it still struggled to secure a continuous spot.

The emergence of Star Wars in 1977 had a profound effect on the sci-fi landscape. TV responded with the return of Battlestar Galactica, and Rodenberry managed to sell The Motion Picture in 1979, a big-budget film that, despite its slow pace and recycled plot, performed well at the box office. Despite network ininterest in TOS, Rodenberry reconsidered and reworked his concept, leading to the syndication of TNG.

Conclusion

The gap between TOS and TNG is a testament to the evolving nature of television and the critical role of network support, syndication, and audience reception. The success of the Star Trek movies and the changing TV landscape contributed to the resurgence of the franchise, leading to the creation of TNG. Understanding these dynamics provides valuable insights into the Star Trek saga and the challenges faced by productions in the entertainment industry.