''Star Trek: TNG'': An Oral History

THE SHOW

Perhaps the biggest unknown of all was how legions of Trekkies (or Trekkers) — entirely responsible for making a canceled NBC series into a global phenomenon — would take to a brand-new series in their beloved universe.

BERMAN There were a lot of fans who were airing their feelings: ''We don't want anybody taking the place of Kirk and Spock, and we don't want an English guy who's 10 years older than Kirk was to be the head of the ship.''

JUSTMAN At the time we were shooting [the pilot], there was a Star Trek convention in the [San Fernando] Valley. I got permission to address the fans there, and I said, ''I want you to know that we haven't forgotten you. Please don't shoot us down without knowing what we're about to do. Don't prejudge us. Be patient and see what comes out; I think you're going to like it very, very much.''

And, for the most part, they did. The first episode premiered to nearly 27 million viewers — a massive success for any series debut, let alone a syndicated sci-fi drama — and Paramount picked up The Next Generation soon after for a second full season.

BURTON The fourth estate was very vocal about how fans of the original were not feeling The Next Generation. I always figured that was more hype than real. Because genuine Star Trek fans are open-minded by nature. You can't embrace the philosophy of infinite diversity and respect for all life without having somewhat of an open mind. Even given that there was an absolute love for and loyalty to the original series, I never bought the idea that genuine Star Trek fans had no room in their hearts for a new incarnation. So there. [Laughs]

CROSBY I had no idea at the time that this was going to be such a meaningful show and resonate like it has to so many people. In truth, had I known, I think I would have reconsidered [leaving the show in the first season].

JUSTMAN Midway through the first season, I told Paramount I was going to retire. I'd accomplished what I wanted to accomplish. Star Trek wasn't a fluke.

Want more Star Trek: TNG? See our list of Star Trek: The Next Generation's Top 10 Episodes and Star Trek: The Next Generation: Where Are They Now? to see what's next for Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, Denise Crosby, and other TNG favorites.