Gene Roddenberry

Gene Roddenberry

Eugene Wesley "Gene" Roddenberry (August 19, 1921 – October 24, 1991) was an American television screenwriter, producer, and creator of the original Star Trek television series. He is often credited with bringing science fiction into the mainstream of American television and is considered one of the most influential figures in the genre.

Early Life

Roddenberry was born in El Paso, Texas, and raised in Los Angeles, California. He was the son of a police officer and grew up with a keen interest in science fiction literature. Roddenberry attended Los Angeles City College where he studied police science, but his passion for writing led him to pursue a career in the entertainment industry.

Military Service

During World War II, Roddenberry enlisted in the United States Army Air Forces and served as a pilot. He flew B-17 bombers in the Pacific Theater and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Medal. After the war, he worked as a commercial pilot for Pan American World Airways.

Career in Television

Roddenberry began his television career as a writer for various series, including Have Gun – Will Travel and Highway Patrol. His experience in the military and as a police officer often influenced his writing, which frequently explored themes of justice and morality.

Creation of Star Trek

In 1964, Roddenberry developed a concept for a science fiction television series that would explore social issues through allegory and metaphor. This concept became Star Trek, which premiered on NBC in 1966. The series was groundbreaking for its time, featuring a diverse cast and addressing contemporary issues such as racism, war, and human rights.

Star Trek was initially canceled after three seasons due to low ratings, but it gained a cult following in syndication. This popularity led to the creation of an animated series, several feature films, and multiple spin-off series, including Star Trek: The Next Generation, which Roddenberry also developed.

Legacy

Roddenberry's vision of a future where humanity has overcome its differences and works together for the common good has had a lasting impact on popular culture. His work has inspired generations of fans and has been credited with influencing real-world technological advancements and social change.

Roddenberry was posthumously inducted into the Science Fiction Hall of Fame and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. His influence extends beyond Star Trek, as he was a pioneer in using science fiction as a platform for exploring complex social and philosophical issues.

Personal Life

Roddenberry was married twice and had three children. His second wife, Majel Barrett, was an actress who appeared in several Star Trek series and films. She was often referred to as the "First Lady of Star Trek."

Death

Gene Roddenberry passed away on October 24, 1991, due to cardiac arrest. His legacy continues to live on through the ongoing Star Trek franchise and the many fans who celebrate his vision of a hopeful future.

See Also

• Star Trek: The Original Series
• Star Trek: The Next Generation
• Science Fiction Hall of Fame

References

• "Gene Roddenberry". StarTrek.com. Retrieved October 10, 2023.