Home · Entertainment · Sep 8 archive
60 years later, 'Star Trek' continues to 'live long and prosper'
Confirmed
In Short: Star Trek, the iconic science-fiction franchise, marks its 60th anniversary with worldwide commemorations, from Hollywood to the International Space Station.
For many, "Star Trek" was a constant in their lives, especially for those in military families who moved frequently. George Takei, a "Star Trek" actor and fan, reflects on his childhood during World War II internment camps, noting that the show provided a sense of stability. "Beam me up, Scotty. Live long and prosper. Make it so," he says, highlighting the show's enduring appeal.
The original series, starring William Shatner as Captain James T. Kirk, was a groundbreaking show in an era with limited sci-fi content. Shatner, now 95, describes the show's narrative structure as akin to Greek drama, with a hero solving a problem and returning home. The show's creator, Gene Roddenberry, was inspired by a TV show about a wagon train going West, envisioning a "Wagon Train to the Stars" set in space.
To celebrate the 60th anniversary, The Royal Mint is launching two collectable 50p coins, while Agoro by the New Zealand Mint will release a 5g 999 pure silver/gold foil blind box. These commemoratives join worldwide celebrations, including events at the Hollywood Walk of Fame, New York Comic-Con, and even aboard the International Space Station, where an astronaut plans to wear a badge from Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.
What's confirmed
What's still developing
- Back when your music was everything. 'Star Trek's' George Takei pens children's book detailing childhood in World War II internment camps “Star Trek” was like that for me.
- "Star Trek" fan or not, it’s inarguably impressive that a science-fiction television show that was essentially cancelled twice during its original three-season run has spawned two generations of spinoffs, films and merchandising, earning some $11.2 billion in estimated gross revenue and the Guinness world record for the world's most successful TV science-fiction franchise.
- There was precious little sci-fi then on film and TV, so a show like “Star Trek” was a big deal.
- Also, being in a military family, moving to a new home an average of every 18 months, “Star Trek” was my constant.
- At the Science Museum in London, fans hope to set a Guinness World Record for the most people performing the Vulcan Salute — a greeting made famous by Star Trek 's beloved half-human, half-alien character Spock.
- Sixty years after Star Trek first appeared on television screens, on September 3rd, The Royal Mint is launching two collectable 50p coins to celebrate the global phenomenon and its intergalactic legacy.
- NickALive!: How an Out-of-this-World Star Trek 50p Coin Was Struck | Star Trek NickALive!