A couple of days ago, in 1987, Star Trek: The Next Generation premiered.
I am one year older today than Patrick Stewart was when we filmed Encounter At Farpoint. I literally grew up on the Enterprise.
It’s been a long and complicated journey to get from 14 to 48. It’s been joyful and painful, and all of it has happened on the shoulders (and occasionally in the shadow) of this television show that is so much more than a television show.
I am so proud and so grateful to be part of Star Trek. I love my Star Trek family so much; they are the closest thing to parents I have in my life, and I am so grateful for them.
I am so lucky to be part of something that will likely endure for generations, inspiring kids whose parents haven’t even met, yet, to do great things with their lives.
I wish I’d been able to fully appreciate it when I was there, but I just couldn’t. I was young, immature, and in so much emotional pain, all the time, it kind of overwhelmed everything else in my life. Luckily, I was able to appreciate it from time to time, and because of that, I have some of my most joyful memories as a kid, and as an actor.
I met Anne because of Star Trek. I was on a Trek cruise when I was 18, and met my friend Stephanie, who was also on the ship, but not part of the Star Trek group. We became friends (still are, she was in our wedding), and years later, she introduced me to her friend from work.
I owe every bit of happiness I have in my life to Star Trek, and when I think about that, it kind of blows my mind.
Happy birthday, Next Generation. Happy birthday, to my space family. I love you.
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i grew up on TOS, then entered the next phase of growing up with TNG…i didn’t like it at first…but then it became the greatest ever to me…and when people still ask my fav series…is say TOS and TNG….for reals. I remember the first time i made it to a con, it was so surreal to see actors that portrayed characters that i loved so dearly in real form in person…happy star trek family and anniversaries!!! <3
Just starting binge watching the star trek: next generation a couple of weeks ago; my first time watching it. Just came on to post how much I am enjoying this show, and all the actors who created wonderful characters, Wil included. At 54, I appreciate the young Wesley learning and striving to become part of the enterprise. when he goes off to training, he was sadly missed, ….so glad to be in a blog with a famous actor that which is interactive. Thanks for being part of Star Trek , Wil, you are loved by many.
just by watching the actors around Wil, it was obvious they loved the guy. As a newbie watcher of the show, 30 odd yrs later, I can see why. He brought his own to the series, youth, innocence and the desire to learn his trade. Thanks for blogging and thanks for us to respond.
Watching the Ready Room with Michelle Yeoh from Discovery (Georgiou). I completely agree more with her comments about Wesley Crusher. I think we all related to the character, as you portrayed him, even when he wasn’t appreciated as much then as now. When I saw Wesley it was like looking at myself on the bridge of the enterprise – which was awkward, as I wanted to be more like other, flashier characters in Star Trek. But really I wanted to be that kid on the Enterprise, nerdy and happy with himself!
Your still an inspiration and now I couldn’t possibly be a bigger fan of you! Your life story and your role on the Ready Room is amazing! Thank you for continuing to represent the heart and sole of Star Trek, and the fans! As you say “there is a future and better moments ahead!”🖖
Hey Wil! Wanted to touch base with you. We’d love to get a few of our 8” Mego Star Trek action figures over to you to check out. Please let us know how we can make this happen. Happy Holidays! 🖖 -FrankWojo MegoCorp