LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — It was 60 years ago today that Star Trek debuted and boldly went where no television show had gone before.
In honor of Star Trek Day, Good Day Las Vegas’ JC Fernandez was live downtown at the Toy Shack, showcasing rare collectibles and exploring the history behind one of television’s most iconic franchises.
>>Download the free 8 News+ app for live newscasts and streaming originals
JC was joined by Toy Shack owner Johnny Jimenez, who gave us some history on the series. Star Trek debuted on September 8, 1966. The original series ran for three seasons with 79 episodes. The show nearly had a much shorter voyage. After its second season, reports that NBC might cancel Star Trek sparked a massive fan letter-writing campaign. The outpouring of support helped bring the show back for a third season.
Jimenez also shared Lucille Ball’s surprising connection to the series. Star Trek was produced by Desilu Productions, the studio Ball once co-owned with Desi Arnaz. Despite concerns about the show’s cost and unusual concept, Ball supported the project and helped give Gene Roddenberry’s vision an opportunity to reach network TV…