Star Trek: The Next Generation (TNG) isn’t just one of the greatest sci-fi series of all time; it is a cultural milestone that helped redefine the genre. Premiering in 1987, TNG expanded the world created by Gene Roddenberry and introduced audiences to new adventures, unforgettable characters, and thought-provoking dilemmas. But beyond the iconic space escapades and philosophical musings, there are countless fascinating behind-the-scenes stories that even the most devoted fans might have missed. Let’s dive into the untold details that make Star Trek: The Next Generation even more remarkable.

Lifelong Friendships Built On Set

For many members of the cast, Star Trek: The Next Generation wasn’t just a job—it became the foundation for lifelong friendships. Patrick Stewart (Captain Picard) and Jonathan Frakes (Commander Riker) developed a hilarious and heartfelt camaraderie that continues to this day. The bonds formed on set extended beyond the cameras. When LeVar Burton (Geordi La Forge) got married in 1992, Brent Spiner (Data) served as his best man, while Stewart, Frakes, and Michael Dorn (Worf) acted as ushers, cementing their bond off-screen.

However, not all friendships began smoothly. Marina Sirtis (Counselor Troi) initially found it difficult to get along with Michael Dorn (Worf), and even admitted that she couldn’t stand him in the early days of filming. Yet, over time, their on-screen chemistry transformed into a strong real-life friendship. Fans even speculated about a potential romantic relationship between the two, though both have always denied these rumors.

The Uncomfortable Reality of the Starfleet Uniform

The sleek, iconic Starfleet uniforms may have looked futuristic, but they were far from comfortable. The original one-piece spandex outfits were so tight that they restricted movement, and Patrick Stewart’s agent even had to step in, threatening legal action if Stewart suffered any muscle damage due to the ill-fitting attire. By the third season, the cast was finally given some relief when the costume department introduced a two-piece uniform that allowed for easier movement and breathing during those long shooting days.

Video

Watch the video for the blooper reel from Star Trek: The Next Generation Season Two!

A Different Captain Picard? The Role Almost Went to Someone Else

In a surprising twist, Gene Roddenberry didn’t initially want Patrick Stewart for the role of Captain Picard. Instead, he was looking for a younger actor with a full head of hair. However, producer Robert H. Justman pushed hard for Stewart, arguing that his acting abilities were far more important than any concerns over his appearance. To make his case even stronger, Stewart wore a hairpiece during his first meeting with Paramount executives—but they ended up casting him only if he ditched the wig. Brent Spiner, known for his sense of humor, even hung a sign outside Stewart’s dressing room that read, “Beware: Unknown British Shakespearean Actor!”

The Stolen Forehead: Worf’s Unexpected Setback

One of the most distinctive features of Worf, the Klingon officer played by Michael Dorn, was his prosthetic forehead. However, disaster struck during season two when his original forehead prosthetic was stolen. This led to a scramble to create a new one, resulting in a slightly different look for Worf. The struggle didn’t end there—Dorn’s makeup process was so grueling that he often joked about how much of his day was spent sitting in the makeup chair, enduring heavy prosthetics and a wig that made him feel even more uncomfortable.

A Humorous Pay Raise Proposal from Wil Wheaton

In one of the most memorable moments from behind the scenes, Wil Wheaton (Wesley Crusher) was once offered a character promotion instead of a salary raise. The producers suggested making Wesley a Lieutenant, but Wheaton responded with a humorous quip: “So what should I tell my landlord when I can’t pay my rent? ‘Don’t worry, I just made Lieutenant’?” Despite his role in the series, Wheaton eventually left the show to pursue other opportunities.

The Painful Reality of Geordi’s VISOR

LeVar Burton’s portrayal of Geordi La Forge was defined by his VISOR, a device that allowed his character to “see” despite being blind. Unfortunately, the VISOR was not only a vital prop but also a literal pain to wear. Made from a modified car air filter and headband, it caused Burton frequent headaches and had to be screwed into his head. Initially, producers planned to have Geordi undergo a surgical procedure to restore his eyesight, which would eliminate the need for the VISOR. However, recognizing its importance as a symbol of disability representation, they decided to keep it. In an amusing twist, Burton would sometimes fall asleep during long scenes on the bridge, and no one even noticed since the VISOR covered his eyes.

Behind the Wigs: Secrets of Marina Sirtis and Gates McFadden’s Hair

It may come as a surprise to some, but Marina Sirtis (Counselor Troi) and Gates McFadden (Dr. Beverly Crusher) both wore wigs for much of the series. Sirtis wore a wig for the majority of her time on the show, blending it with her natural hair to create the signature look of Troi. McFadden also struggled with her natural hair, which would often frizz under the studio lights. By season three, she switched to expensive, real-hair wigs, making her styling much easier. Sirtis even admitted to feeling envious of McFadden’s high-quality wigs and got an upgrade by season four.

Riker’s Beard: A Legend Was Born

Jonathan Frakes made a lasting impression with his iconic beard, which he grew during the 1988 writers’ strike. Initially planning to shave it off before filming season two, Frakes was convinced to keep it by the producers, who loved the look. The beard quickly became a staple of Commander Riker’s character, so much so that fans even noticed when he shaved it off for Star Trek: Insurrection in 1998. The mischievous Q even commented on the change, saying, “Riker was more fun before the beard!”

Robin Williams’ Missed Opportunity to Join the Cast

Though Star Trek: The Next Generation had its fair share of celebrity fans, one famous name almost appeared on screen. Robin Williams, a lifelong Star Trek fan, was originally considered for a role in the episode “A Matter of Time.” Unfortunately, due to scheduling conflicts with his film Hook (1991), Williams had to decline. The role ultimately went to Matt Frewer, but the idea of Robin Williams in the Star Trek universe remains an intriguing “what if.”

Patrick Stewart’s Early Doubts and Unopened Suitcases

In the early days of filming, Patrick Stewart was so convinced that Star Trek: The Next Generation would fail that he didn’t even bother to unpack his suitcase for the first six weeks of shooting. He wasn’t alone in his doubts—many assumed a Star Trek revival would flop. However, by the end of season one, the show had already captured millions of viewers. By 1992, Star Trek: TNG was pulling in nearly $2 million per episode and raking in $90 million annually from advertising.

Video

Watch the video to see Jonathan Frakes’ shocking discovery about Wil Wheaton’s life outside of Star Trek!

A Timeless Legacy: Star Trek’s Enduring Influence

Decades after its final episode, Star Trek: The Next Generation continues to serve as a benchmark for science fiction television. From the friendships forged behind the scenes to the quirky, unexpected details, the show’s legacy endures. Its blend of captivating storytelling, memorable characters, and cultural impact ensures that Star Trek: The Next Generation will forever remain a cherished part of pop culture history.

The next time you watch an episode of TNG, take a moment to appreciate the hidden details, stories, and secrets that make it even more extraordinary. You might just see it in a whole new light.