Star Trek: The Next Generation, which premiered in 1987, quickly became a cultural phenomenon and solidified itself as one of the most beloved sci-fi shows of all time.
With its groundbreaking special effects, strong ensemble
cast, and thought-provoking storylines, the show captivated audiences and
garnered a devoted fanbase.
However, it wasn't until the second season when the show
really hit its stride, and it all started with one facial hair change.
Commander William Riker, played by Jonathan Frakes, began to sport a beard in the show's second season, a move that signalled a shift in the series' tone and quality. The addition of the beard to Riker's character coincided with the show's move towards more serialized storytelling and an exploration of deeper philosophical themes. The beard quickly became a topic of conversation among fans and critics alike, and many saw it as a sign of the show's creative resurgence.
In this list, we will explore the ten most popular episodes
of Star Trek: The Next Generation, as voted by fans. From iconic moments to
emotional performances, these episodes have stood the test of time and continue
to resonate with audiences today. So, sit back, relax, and boldly go where no
one has gone before, as we explore the very best that Star Trek: The Next
Generation has to offer.
You’ll note too, most of these episodes feature Riker’s beard in some shape or form…
- "The
Best of Both Worlds, Part 1" - June 18, 1990 (Season 3, Episode 26)
Directed by Cliff Bole
Considered one of the most iconic episodes in Star Trek
history, "The Best of Both Worlds, Part 1" introduces the Borg, a
cybernetic species whose goal is to assimilate other cultures. The episode
features an intense cliffhanger as Captain Picard is abducted by the Borg,
leaving the crew of the Enterprise in shock and despair. Viewers were
captivated by the dramatic storyline and the introduction of such a formidable
villain. Fun fact: The cliffhanger left fans waiting in suspense for months
until the conclusion aired in the following season.
- "The
Inner Light" - June 1, 1992 (Season 5, Episode 25) Directed by Peter
Lauritson
In "The Inner Light," Captain Picard experiences
an entire lifetime of memories in the span of minutes when he is struck by a
mysterious probe. The episode explores Picard's emotional journey as he
navigates this alternate reality, raising philosophical questions about the
nature of memory and what it means to live a fulfilling life. The episode's
poignant storytelling and Patrick Stewart's masterful performance earned it
critical acclaim and a devoted fan following.
- "Yesterday's
Enterprise" - February 19, 1990 (Season 3, Episode 15) Directed by
David Carson
In this episode, the crew of the Enterprise discovers a temporal rift that causes a shift in the timeline, bringing them face to face with a version of the ship from an alternate universe. The new reality is a dark one where the Federation is at war with the Klingons, and Tasha Yar is still alive. "Yesterday's Enterprise" features intense action sequences, high stakes, and a memorable guest appearance by Denise Crosby as Tasha Yar. The episode's exploration of alternate realities and their consequences resonated with viewers, making it one of the most popular episodes of the series.
- "The
Measure of a Man" - February 13, 1989 (Season 2, Episode 9) Directed
by Robert Scheerer
In "The Measure of a Man," Data's status as a
sentient being is put on trial when a Starfleet officer seeks to have him
disassembled for study. The episode raises complex ethical questions about the
nature of life and artificial intelligence, and explores the relationship
between Data and Captain Picard. The episode's thought-provoking storyline and
strong performances from the cast made it a fan favorite and a standout episode
of the series.
- "All
Good Things..." - May 23, 1994 (Season 7, Episode 25) Directed by
Winrich Kolbe
"All Good Things..." serves as the series finale
of Star Trek: The Next Generation, as Captain Picard experiences jumps through
time to stop the destruction of humanity. The episode features appearances by
fan-favorite characters and explores themes of destiny and the passage of time.
The finale was a critical and commercial success, providing a satisfying
conclusion to the beloved series and leaving fans with a sense of closure.
6 .
"Chain of Command, Part II" - December 17, 1992 (Season 6, Episode
11) Directed by Les Landau
"Chain of Command, Part II" is the conclusion to a
two-part episode that sees Captain Picard captured by the Cardassians and
subjected to torture. The episode features powerful performances from Patrick
Stewart as Picard and David Warner as Gul Madred, the Cardassian interrogator.
"Chain of Command, Part II" is widely regarded as one of the most
intense and emotional episodes of the series, exploring the themes of
leadership and sacrifice.
- "The
Offspring" - March 12, 1990 (Season 3, Episode 16) Directed by Jonathan
Frakes
In "The Offspring," Data creates a daughter, Lal,
who begins to develop emotions and a sense of identity. The episode explores
the relationship between Data and his creation, as well as the ethical
implications of creating artificial life. "The Offspring" is a
standout episode for its emotional depth and the performances of Brent Spiner
as Data and Hallie Todd as Lal.
- "Cause
and Effect" - March 23, 1992 (Season 5, Episode 18) Directed by
Jonathan Frakes
In "Cause and Effect," the Enterprise becomes
stuck in a time loop, repeating the same events over and over again. The
episode features a unique narrative structure, as the crew attempts to break
free from the loop and solve the mystery of what is causing it. "Cause and
Effect" is widely regarded as one of the most inventive and engaging
episodes of the series, with a thrilling storyline and memorable visuals.
- "Darmok"
- September 30, 1991 (Season 5, Episode 2) Directed by Winrich Kolbe
In "Darmok," the Enterprise encounters a species
with a language that is incomprehensible to the crew. Captain Picard is beamed
down to the planet with the alien captain, and the two must learn to
communicate and work together to survive. "Darmok" is a standout episode
for its exploration of language and communication, as well as its emotional
depth and strong performances from Patrick Stewart and Paul Winfield.
- "Q
Who" - May 8, 1989 (Season 2, Episode 16) Directed by Rob Bowman
In "Q Who," the omnipotent Q sends the Enterprise
to a distant part of the galaxy, where they encounter the Borg for the first
time. The episode marks the first appearance of the Borg, who would go on to
become one of the most iconic villains in the Star Trek universe. "Q
Who" is a fan favorite for its introduction of the Borg and its
exploration of the dangers of encountering a vastly superior alien race.
Agree or Disagree?
Check out the best episodes from Star Trek: Enterprise
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