"Star Trek: United" Concept Revealed: A Glimpse into the Potential Archer Spinoff
A summer of rumors and speculation has finally given way to concrete details about the proposed "Star Trek: United" spinoff, a series that would have built upon the events of "Enterprise." According to producer Michael Sussman, who shared insights with the "TrekMovies All Access Star Trek" podcast, the show's concept was akin to the political thriller tension found in "Andor."
Sussman revealed that "United" would have explored the aftermath of Captain Archer's (Scott Bakula) brief revelation in the season four Mirror Universe two-parter "In a Mirror, Darkly," where it is hinted that he will become one of the first presidents of the nascent United Federation of Planets. The series was pitched to Paramount with Bakula's involvement but ultimately met with rejection due to budget constraints and perceived similarities to the upcoming "Starfleet Academy" show.
"We were trying to create a sense of tension and intrigue, something that would keep viewers engaged," Sussman explained. "We wanted to explore the complexities of politics and power in the early days of the Federation."
The concept for "United" was first floated over the summer, sparking interest among fans and industry insiders alike. However, with Paramount's recent sale to Skydance and a broader cutback in streaming funding, the project was put on hold.
In an interview, Sussman acknowledged that the decision to reject "United" was likely influenced by the company's shift in priorities. "It's not uncommon for studios to reassess their slate of projects when there are changes in leadership or financial considerations," he noted.
While "Star Trek: United" may not be moving forward as initially planned, its concept offers a fascinating glimpse into the potential directions that the franchise could have taken. With the upcoming "Starfleet Academy" series set to explore similar themes on Earth, fans can't help but wonder what might have been if "United" had received the green light.
As for Bakula and Sussman's vision for the show, it remains to be seen whether they will revisit the concept in the future. For now, fans of the franchise are left to speculate about the possibilities that could have been.
Background: The idea for "Star Trek: United" was first floated by Sussman over the summer, sparking interest among fans and industry insiders alike. With Paramount's recent sale to Skydance and a broader cutback in streaming funding, the project was put on hold.
Industry Insights: According to Sussman, the decision to reject "United" was likely influenced by the company's shift in priorities. "It's not uncommon for studios to reassess their slate of projects when there are changes in leadership or financial considerations," he noted.
Cultural Impact: The concept for "Star Trek: United" offers a fascinating glimpse into the potential directions that the franchise could have taken. With the upcoming "Starfleet Academy" series set to explore similar themes on Earth, fans can't help but wonder what might have been if "United" had received the green light.
Audience Appeal: Fans of the franchise are eagerly awaiting any developments regarding the concept for "Star Trek: United." With its unique blend of politics and intrigue, the show would have likely appealed to a dedicated fan base.
As for next developments, only time will tell whether Sussman and Bakula will revisit the concept in the future. For now, fans can continue to speculate about the possibilities that could have been.
*Reporting by Gizmodo.*