The question of the “last episode of Star Trek” isn’t as simple as it seems. While many point to specific series finales, the franchise’s expanding multiverse and anthology formats necessitate a more nuanced answer: as of October 26, 2023, the last episode of Star Trek to air is “Subspace Rhapsody,” the ninth episode of the second season of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. This groundbreaking musical episode premiered on Paramount+ and represents the latest contribution to the ever-growing Star Trek canon.
Understanding the Nuance: What Does “Last Episode” Really Mean?
The complexities arise from defining “Star Trek.” Do we mean the last episode of a specific series? The last episode featuring a particular crew? Or the absolute latest installment, regardless of continuity or format? Considering the revival of older series characters in new shows and the ongoing production of new content, a definitive answer requires context. Therefore, instead of focusing on a singular endpoint, let’s explore the various finales and their significance within the Star Trek universe.
The Original Series Finale: “Turnabout Intruder”
The original Star Trek, starring William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, and DeForest Kelley, concluded its run with “Turnabout Intruder,” which aired on June 3, 1969. While not a satisfying conclusion for many, it holds historical significance as the last episode of the series that started it all. The episode itself is controversial, featuring Janice Lester, a disgruntled former lover of Kirk, attempting to steal his body and life.
Star Trek: The Next Generation Finale: “All Good Things…”
Widely considered one of the best series finales in television history, “All Good Things…”, the two-part conclusion to Star Trek: The Next Generation, aired in May 1994. It sees Captain Picard experiencing temporal anomalies, jumping between three different time periods, ultimately uncovering a threat to humanity and forging deeper bonds with his crew. This finale provided a sense of closure while leaving room for future adventures.
Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Finale: “What You Leave Behind”
The final episode of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, “What You Leave Behind,” aired in June 1999. This two-part episode wrapped up the Dominion War and saw significant character departures and resolutions. It’s a darker, more complex finale reflective of the series’ overall tone.
Star Trek: Voyager Finale: “Endgame”
Star Trek: Voyager concluded with “Endgame,” a two-part episode that aired in May 2001. It features Admiral Janeway traveling back in time to alter the events of Voyager’s journey, ensuring a quicker return to the Alpha Quadrant. This finale was met with mixed reactions, with some praising its action and resolution, while others criticized its plot contrivances.
Star Trek: Enterprise Finale: “These Are the Voyages…”
Perhaps the most controversial Star Trek finale, “These Are the Voyages…”, aired in May 2005. It’s a holodeck episode set during The Next Generation, where Commander Riker is using simulations of the Enterprise NX-01 crew to help him make a decision. This finale was widely criticized for sidelining the Enterprise crew and feeling disconnected from the series’ overall narrative.
The Era of New Trek: Continual Evolution
Since the debut of Star Trek: Discovery in 2017, Star Trek has entered a new era of interconnected storytelling and expanded universes. Shows like Picard, Lower Decks, Prodigy, and Strange New Worlds continue to add to the canon, making any attempt to define a single “last episode” a moving target. The franchise is no longer about fixed conclusions; it’s about ongoing exploration and evolving narratives. The most recent contributions, like “Subspace Rhapsody,” are part of this evolving landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: Why is defining the “last episode” of Star Trek so complicated?
The complexity stems from the franchise’s multi-series nature and the rise of anthology formats. Each series has its own finale, but the overall Star Trek story continues to expand with new shows and interconnected narratives. The introduction of alternate timelines and reboots further muddies the waters.
FAQ 2: Was “These Are the Voyages…” intended to be the final Star Trek episode ever?
No. While it was the finale of Enterprise, it was never intended as the final episode of the entire franchise. Plans were already underway for potential future Star Trek projects, even during the show’s cancellation.
FAQ 3: What is the significance of “All Good Things…” as a finale?
“All Good Things…” is significant because it provided a satisfying and thoughtful conclusion to The Next Generation‘s seven-season run. It explored themes of legacy, friendship, and the enduring nature of the human spirit, solidifying its place as a benchmark for television series finales.
FAQ 4: How does “Subspace Rhapsody” fit into the Star Trek timeline?
“Subspace Rhapsody” is an episode of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, which takes place before the events of the original Star Trek. It offers a lighter, more whimsical tone than some other Star Trek series, showcasing the franchise’s ability to explore different genres and styles. It is currently the most recently aired episode of any Star Trek series.
FAQ 5: Will there ever be a definitive “end” to Star Trek?
Given the franchise’s continued popularity and the potential for new stories and characters, it’s unlikely that Star Trek will ever have a definitive “end.” The universe is vast, and the possibilities for exploration are virtually limitless.
FAQ 6: Which Star Trek series finale is generally considered the “best”?
“All Good Things…” from Star Trek: The Next Generation is generally considered the best by both critics and fans due to its compelling narrative, emotional resonance, and satisfying conclusion to the series’ overarching themes.
FAQ 7: How does the concept of the “Prime Timeline” impact the discussion of the last episode?
The “Prime Timeline” refers to the main continuity established in the original Star Trek. Events in alternate timelines, such as those depicted in the Kelvin timeline movies, don’t directly impact the Prime Timeline, meaning their finales are separate from the core narrative. This distinction is crucial when considering the overall chronology of the franchise.
FAQ 8: Where can I watch all of these Star Trek episodes and series?
Most Star Trek series and movies are available to stream on Paramount+. Some older series may also be available on other streaming platforms or for purchase on physical media.
FAQ 9: What is the future of Star Trek on television?
The future of Star Trek on television is bright, with multiple series currently in production or development. Expect continued expansion of the universe, exploration of new characters and stories, and innovative approaches to storytelling.
FAQ 10: How have fan reactions influenced Star Trek finales?
Fan reactions have significantly influenced the direction of Star Trek finales. For example, the negative reception to “These Are the Voyages…” led to a greater emphasis on respecting the established canon and character arcs in subsequent series. Producers are generally aware of fan expectations and strive to create finales that are both satisfying and respectful of the franchise’s legacy.
FAQ 11: Are there any plans to revisit the characters from Star Trek: Enterprise?
While there are no confirmed plans to bring back the entire Enterprise crew, individual characters could potentially appear in future Star Trek projects. The current trend of revisiting characters from past series suggests that anything is possible.
FAQ 12: What makes Star Trek so enduringly popular?
Star Trek’s enduring popularity stems from its optimistic vision of the future, its exploration of complex ethical dilemmas, its diverse and relatable characters, and its commitment to promoting tolerance and understanding. Its ability to adapt and evolve while staying true to its core values ensures its continued relevance for generations to come. It’s a franchise that dares to imagine a better future, and that hope resonates deeply.