Star Trek Creator Gene Roddenberry Absolutely Hated One Of TNG's Best Episodes
TVLine • • entertainment
Key Points:
- The "Star Trek: The Next Generation" episode "Family," which depicts Captain Jean-Luc Picard's tense relationship with his brother, faced opposition from franchise creator Gene Roddenberry, who disliked the portrayal of familial conflict in the 24th century.
- Roddenberry suggested changing the storyline to focus on Picard resenting his father, but writer Ronald D. Moore resisted, not wanting the captain to confront an elderly man.
- Despite Roddenberry's disapproval, producers Rick Berman and Michael Piller intervened to ensure the episode was produced and aired, with Moore noting that Roddenberry never voiced further protests afterward.
- Roddenberry also criticized the episode's lack of action, but critics have praised "Family" for its low-key, character-driven approach, marking a departure from typical "Star Trek" episodes.
- The episode "Family" has since been recognized as a must-see installment, highlighting the value of exploring complex personal relationships within the sci-fi series.