When Star Trek was cancelled in 1969, there was no reason to think that this little science fiction show would ever come back. It was millions in the red and no one thought it would ever have a future.
Syndication
Even the idea of syndication seemed far fetched for the show. There were only 79 episodes, and typically shows needed 100 before they would sell to syndicators. But the kaiser Broadcasting Network had purchased the rights to the show back in 1966, believing it would be good counter programming at the 6:00 pm time slot.
So Star Trek went into syndication.
On Everyday
Syndication gave the show a chance to be in front of viewers everyday. It reached new audiences and for some, it became part of their daily lives.
As the decade of the 1970s wore on, there seemed to be bad news at every turn. First Watergate, then an energy crisis and later long gas lines. When you add inflation and stagnant economic growth, it made the 70s feel as if it were a one giant hangover!
Yet, in the background, there was Star Trek. It was on everyday with its positive message. It reminded us all that there would be a brighter future ahead.
Is it any wonder, then, that Star Trek exploded in the 1970s? The success that Trek had in syndication and the money that Paramount made from it, ensured that the property would return. The only question was when?
Co-hosts Bob Turner and Kelly Casto look at the syndication juggernaut that was Star Trek in the 1970s.
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