It all began right here: On this day back in 1987, lightning stuck again when Star Trek: The Next Generation's "Encounter at Farpoint" premiered in television syndication. Trek fans had waited almost two decades for their franchise to return to the small screen where the adventures of the United Federation of Planet's flagship had begun. Audiences were introduced to Captain Jean-Luc Picard and the crew of the Enterprise-D. I certainly remember it well. I recall thinking, at the time, that I didn't much care for the adventure -- it seemed a bit 'juvenile,' almost a deliberate, intentional nod back to the original program's storytelling techniques -- but I was thrilled to have an all-new cast & crew with which to continue exploring the human condition.
The work of Gerry Anderson remains a highwater mark worthy of study and review, and on this day in 1994 he launched one more with his own unique vision: Space Precinct! The series focused on human cops paired up with alien counterparts in policing the greater galaxy at large, and it lasted for all of a single season with a glorious twenty-four action-packed effects-laden episodes. By my estimation, it's a bit cheesy but a helluva lotta fun.
Even with as imperfect an incarnation as Star Trek: Enterprise was (and, mark my words, it was imperfect), it still at times proved to be "the little engine that could," chugging along without a whole lot of love for its four seasons. Coming when it did in the history of Trek may've in some small ways doomed it to obscurity, and certainly serving as the flagship SciFi program for the failing UPN Network did its crew no favors. Still, its cast and its fans deserved better than they got with its jilted finale (which was handed over to guest stars, mind you), and it all began on this day back in 2001.
Let it be said: "A great cast does not always make for a great reboot." That was largely my issue with NBC's 2007 retooling of the 1970's SciFi series Bionic Woman, a reimagining seemingly only prescient enough to drop the word "the" from the original title. Sure, it offered up some modern era special effects and whatnot, but lost was the heart and soul of the character -- Jaime Sommers -- that made the original such a joy to watch. That's not intended as a slight to series lead Michelle Ryan as the talented actress did the best she could with the material showrunners provided. It premiered on this day in 2007. Alas, it wasn't meant to be ...
For the record, I don't dislike Star Wars: Rebels. What I do feel is that -- when it's compared alongside the previous animated Star Wars: The Clone Wars -- it's easily distinguished as a vastly inferior program. Some of that may be owed to characters who took a great while to grow on me (as a viewer), as I've recently said some of Rebels finer moments involve established Star Wars characters showing up in guest spots. In any event, it is what it is, and I'd always rather have more Star Wars on the television than less. It premiered on this day back in 2014.
The great Edmund Gwenn (above left) is probably best remembered by most for his portrayal of Kris Kringle aboard the 1947 holiday-classic, Miracle On 34th Street; but -- to SciFi fans -- he'll always be Dr. Harold Medford in 1954's 'Giant Ant' flick, Them. Though he's no longer with us, Gwenn was born on this day in 1877.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Roger Corman's Death Race 2000 gets a bad rap as being more exploitation-style filmmaking than it does Science Fiction, but I tend to think its ideas and themes definitely belong properly explored in our favored genre. The lovely Joyce Jameson appeared as one of the 'scummy' TV reporters in the flick, and -- though she's no longer with us -- Jameson was born on this day in 1927.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though he only appeared briefly as the holographic Landru from Star Trek's "The Return of the Archons," Charles Macaulay also enjoyed a small role in "Wolf in the Fold" for good measure. He also enjoyed work on Wonder Woman and the original version of the alien invasion drama V. Though he's no longer with us, Macaulay was born on this day in 1927.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Veteran character actor Richard Herd has built an impressive resume, boasting nearly 150 separate roles across several decades in the business. Science Fiction fans probably best remember him from the original run of V, but he's also enjoyed work aboard Star Trek: The Next Generation, Quantum Leap, SeaQuest 2032, and Star Trek: Voyager. Though he's no longer with us, Herd was born on this day in 1932.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Since beginning her career in the early 1960's, the lovely Martine Beswick has built an impressive resume in some quality genre entertainment. Her theatrical debut was as a Bond girl in From Russia With Love (1963), and she went on to roles in such projects as Thunderball (1965), One Million Years B.C. (1966), The Solarnauts (1967), Prehistoric Women (1967), Night Gallery (1971), Dr. Jekyll & Sister Hyde (1971), Strange New World (1975), The Six Million Dollar Man (1976), The Powers of Matthew Star (1983), Cyclone (1987), and Trancers II (1991). Beswick was born on this day in 1941.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though he found fame originally in the long-lasting police procedural Adam-12 playing officer Jim Reed, Kent McCord is best remembered by SciFi fans as the father of John Crichton on Syfy's underrated Farscape. And who could forget his role as Capt. Troy on Galactica 1980? (Well, Galactica fans might want to!) McCord was born on this day in 1942.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
When it comes to prehistoric women, Raquel Welch seems to draw all of the attention, but my money's on the dreamy Victoria Vetri, shown above from her performance in When Dinosaurs Ruled the Earth (1970). Vetri was born on this day in 1944.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
D.A.R.Y.L. (1985) remains one of those 1980's SciFi film that has yet to find its way into the remake hopper, but there's still time for this tale of a young boy who discovers he's a robot to get a modern makeover. In the film, Michael McKean and Mary Beth Hurt played Daryl's adoptive parents, and Hurt was born on this day in 1948.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ah, the eternally luminous Olivia Newton-John! I've mentioned to friends that I absolutely hate musicals, but I'll see anything Olivia Newton-John is in, and I think I have except 1970's SciFi/Musical Toomorrow. I'll definitely have to look that one up. And -- if you love fantasies -- then let's not forget Xanadu (1980). Though she's no longer with us, Newton-John was born on this day in 1948.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
She remains the original Sarah Conner, mother to the man who saved our world from the ravages of 'the machines.' Linda Hamilton was born on this day in 1956, and she blazed a trail for female action heroes to follow in the 1984 sci-fi classic The Terminator. Once was never enough, and she returned for good measure in 1991's Terminator 2: Judgment Day.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Though she's definitely more well known for her work in Little House on the Prairie, Melissa Sue Anderson turned in a solid performance watching the world end in 10.5: Apocalypse (2006). Anderson was born on this day in 1962.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
In 1983, Lysette Anthony starred as the lovely Lyssa in the cult space fantasy Krull, wooing fanboys to the possible franchise in a heartbeat. Anthony was born on this day in 1963.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Ty Miller explored his 'inner monster' with a guest spot aboard Fox TV's long-running The X-Files. The actor also enjoyed screen time aboard Not Quite Human II (1989), Trancers 4: Jack of Swords (1994), and Trancers 5: Sudden Deth (1994). Miller was born on this day in 1964.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Jim Caviezel has had a bit of a storied career. He's played Jesus in Mel Gibson's The Passion of the Christ, and now he's saving mankind one person at a time as part of the CBS technology procedural Persons of Interest. I like to remember him best from 2000's time travel-ish yarn Frequency and the delicious SciFi B-movie Outlander (2008). Caviezel was born on this day in 1968.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
The actor known only as Ninja (aka Watkin Tudor Jones) delivered fiery goodness to Neill Blomkamp's box office dud, Chappie (2015). Ninja was born on this day in 1974.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Jacob Tierney's resume isn't exactly running over with work in Science Fiction, but an appearance in TekWar: TekJustice (1994) certainly deserves a mention. Tierney was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Mark Famiglietti played a role in 2003's Terminator: Rise of the Machines as Claire Dane's initial love interest. Famiglietti was born on this day in 1979.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Back in 2007, easy-on-the-eyes Christina Milian had a single guest starring appearance on one of the CW's signature dramas, Smallville (pictured). Milian was born on this day in 1981.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
Talulah Riley has visited the Doctor Who universe as Miss Evangelista twice back in 2008. Plus, she had a role in Christopher Nolan's Inception (2010). Not a bad couple of years, eh? Riley was born on this day in 1985.
[Source: IMDB.com]
[Source: IMDB.com]
On this day in 1955 (in Sweden), This Island Earth delivered a bit of Science Fiction and Mystery to audiences of the era. Directed by Joseph M. Newman and Jack Arnold, the SciFi/Classic starred Jeff Morrow, Faith Domergue, and Rex Reason. According to our friends at IMDB.com:
"Aliens come to Earth seeking scientists to help them in their war."
For the record:
In 2007, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films nominated This Island Earth's 2007 home video release in the category of 'Best DVD Classic Film Release.'
"Aliens come to Earth seeking scientists to help them in their war."
For the record:
In 2007, the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films nominated This Island Earth's 2007 home video release in the category of 'Best DVD Classic Film Release.'
A star is born! On this day in 1972 (in the U.S.), Moon Of The Wolf enjoyed its first broadcast on U.S. television. Directed by Daniel Petrie from an adaptation of Les Whitten novel, the Horror/Thriller starred David Janssen, Barbara Rush, and Bradford Dillman. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"After several locals are viciously murdered, a Louisiana sheriff starts to suspect he may be dealing with a werewolf."
"After several locals are viciously murdered, a Louisiana sheriff starts to suspect he may be dealing with a werewolf."
On this day in 1975 (in Belgium), Rollerball skated its way into theatres and clotheslined the competition. Directed by Norman Jewison, the SciFi/Thriller feature starred James Caan, John Houseman, and Maud Adams; and here's the plot summary listed on IMDB.com:
"In a corporate-controlled future, an ultra-violent sport known as Rollerball represents the world, and one of its powerful athletes is out to defy those who want him out of the game."
For the record:
Rollerball is one of those Science Fiction films, in my humble opinion, that probably means more for its time and place in history than it does decades later. This is not to say that it hasn't aged well but rather its themes and underlying social commentary has been afforded deeper and perhaps more relevant exposure in SciFi films since its day. In any event, Rollerball won the Saturn Award for Best Science Fiction Film for the organization's 1974/1975 ceremony, no small feat indeed.
"In a corporate-controlled future, an ultra-violent sport known as Rollerball represents the world, and one of its powerful athletes is out to defy those who want him out of the game."
For the record:
Rollerball is one of those Science Fiction films, in my humble opinion, that probably means more for its time and place in history than it does decades later. This is not to say that it hasn't aged well but rather its themes and underlying social commentary has been afforded deeper and perhaps more relevant exposure in SciFi films since its day. In any event, Rollerball won the Saturn Award for Best Science Fiction Film for the organization's 1974/1975 ceremony, no small feat indeed.
On this day in 1980 (in the U.S.), the Fantasy-themed Resurrection enjoyed its theatrical release. Directed by Daniel Petrie from a script by Lewis John Carlino, the feature starred Ellen Burstyn, Sam Shepard, and Richard Farnsworth; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Edna Mae Macaulay experiences the afterlife for a brief time after a car accident that kills her husband. As she begins her long process of physical healing, she discovers that she has the ability to heal physical infirmities. While most people simply accept her gift, her lover becomes mentally unbalanced and dangerous because she does not place the healings within a religious context."
For the record:
Let it be known that Resurrection enjoyed a good amount of critical praise during its original theatrical experience. At the 1981 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the feature enjoyed four nominations (but no wins) in the categories of 'Best Music,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' and 'Best Actress.' At the 1981 Golden Globes Awards, actress Ellen Burstyn received a nomination in the category of 'Best Actress In A Motion Picture - Drama.' Lastly, at the 1981 Academy Awards, the film scored two nominations (but no wins) in the categories of 'Best Actress In A Supporting Role' and 'Best Actress In A Leading Role.'
"Edna Mae Macaulay experiences the afterlife for a brief time after a car accident that kills her husband. As she begins her long process of physical healing, she discovers that she has the ability to heal physical infirmities. While most people simply accept her gift, her lover becomes mentally unbalanced and dangerous because she does not place the healings within a religious context."
For the record:
Let it be known that Resurrection enjoyed a good amount of critical praise during its original theatrical experience. At the 1981 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the feature enjoyed four nominations (but no wins) in the categories of 'Best Music,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Supporting Actress,' and 'Best Actress.' At the 1981 Golden Globes Awards, actress Ellen Burstyn received a nomination in the category of 'Best Actress In A Motion Picture - Drama.' Lastly, at the 1981 Academy Awards, the film scored two nominations (but no wins) in the categories of 'Best Actress In A Supporting Role' and 'Best Actress In A Leading Role.'
On this day in 1985 (in West Germany), Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome enjoyed its theatrical release. Co-directed by George Miller and George Ogilvie, the SciFi/Thriller starred Mel Gibson as Max himself along with Bruce Spence and Tina Turner; and here's the plot summary compliments of IMDB.com:
"After being exiled from the most advanced town in post apocalyptic Australia, a drifter travels with a group of abandoned children to rebel against the town's queen."
For the record:
The third film in the Mad Max saga was not without its praises. At the 1986 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the flick enjoyed four nominations (but no wins): 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
"After being exiled from the most advanced town in post apocalyptic Australia, a drifter travels with a group of abandoned children to rebel against the town's queen."
For the record:
The third film in the Mad Max saga was not without its praises. At the 1986 Saturn Awards (sponsored by the Academy Of Science Fiction, Fantasy, And Horror Films), the flick enjoyed four nominations (but no wins): 'Best Costumes,' 'Best Writing,' 'Best Director,' and 'Best Science Fiction Film.'
A star is born! On this day in 1986 (in Poland), Ga, Ga - Chwala bohaterom (aka Ga-ga: Glory To The Heroes) enjoyed its theatrical debut. Written and directed by Piotr Szulkin, the Polish-language SciFi/Comedy starred Daniel Olbrychski, Jerzy Stuhr, and Katarzyna Figura; and here's what IMDB.com has to say about its plotline:
"In the 21st century, prisoners aboard penitentiary space ships explore unknown worlds."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Ga-ga enjoyed a wee bit of praise from the film festival circuit.
"In the 21st century, prisoners aboard penitentiary space ships explore unknown worlds."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Ga-ga enjoyed a wee bit of praise from the film festival circuit.
On this day in 2008 (in Greece), the 1957-produced Curse Of The Demon played for audiences in attendance of the Athens Film Festival. Directed by Jacques Tourneur, the Fantasy/Horror starred Dana Andrews, Peggy Cummins, and Niall MacGinnis. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"American professor John Holden arrives in London for a parapsychology conference, only to find himself investigating the mysterious actions of Devil-worshiper Julian Karswell."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Curse Of The Demon enjoyed a wee bit of praise on the film festival circuit.
"American professor John Holden arrives in London for a parapsychology conference, only to find himself investigating the mysterious actions of Devil-worshiper Julian Karswell."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Curse Of The Demon enjoyed a wee bit of praise on the film festival circuit.
A star is born! On this day in 2008 (in Denmark), the SciFi/Animated Journey To Saturn (aka Rejsen Til Saturn) launched into cinematic orbit. Based on the comic from Claus Deleuran, the animated feature was directed by Thorbjørn Christoffersen and Craig Frank. The film starred the voices of Casper Christensen, Frank Hvam, and Ali Kazim. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the premise:
"A danish crew of misfits travel to Saturn in search for natural resources. However, the planet is colonized by a ruthless army of Aliens that turn their eye on Earth and invade Denmark. Thus, the crew change their mission to liberate Denmark."
For the record:
Along with a wee bit of praise the film earned on the festival circuit, Journey To Saturn enjoyed a 'Best Screenplay' nomination at the 2009 Danish Film Awards.
"A danish crew of misfits travel to Saturn in search for natural resources. However, the planet is colonized by a ruthless army of Aliens that turn their eye on Earth and invade Denmark. Thus, the crew change their mission to liberate Denmark."
For the record:
Along with a wee bit of praise the film earned on the festival circuit, Journey To Saturn enjoyed a 'Best Screenplay' nomination at the 2009 Danish Film Awards.
On this day in 2012 (in Italy), the 1965-produced Mutiny In Outer Space enjoyed a release on home video. Written and directed by the team of Hugo Grimaldi and Arthur C. Pierce, the SciFi/Fantasy starred William Leslie, Dolores Faith, and Pamela Curran. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A creeping fungus starts killing off astronauts on a trip back from the moon."
"A creeping fungus starts killing off astronauts on a trip back from the moon."
On this day in 2013, 2009's Mr. Nobody finally enjoyed a release in the United States. Written and directed by Jaco Van Dormael, the SciFi/Fantasy starred Jared Leto, Sarah Polley, and Diane Kruger. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"A boy stands on a station platform as a train is about to leave. Should he go with his mother or stay with his father? Infinite possibilities arise from this decision. As long as he doesn't choose, anything is possible."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Mr. Nobody garnered a wealth of attention from the film festival circuit and beyond, including nominations and trophies from such events as the European Film Awards, Belgium's Magritte Awards, and the Venice Film Festival.
"A boy stands on a station platform as a train is about to leave. Should he go with his mother or stay with his father? Infinite possibilities arise from this decision. As long as he doesn't choose, anything is possible."
For the record:
To the film's credit, Mr. Nobody garnered a wealth of attention from the film festival circuit and beyond, including nominations and trophies from such events as the European Film Awards, Belgium's Magritte Awards, and the Venice Film Festival.
On this day in 2017, the SciFi/Animated/Short Blade Runner: Black Out 2022 enjoyed release via the web. (From what I've read, this was one of a series of short films meant to promote the forthcoming Blade Runner 2049.) According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summation:
"In 2022, a powerful weapon causes a global blackout that has massive implications all over the world."
"In 2022, a powerful weapon causes a global blackout that has massive implications all over the world."
On this day in 2017 (in France), Night Of The Big Heat enjoyed a special release on home video. Directed by Terence Fisher, the Horror/Fantasy starred Christopher Lee, Patrick Allen, and Peter Cushing. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"While mainland Britain shivers in deepest winter, the northern island of Fara bakes in the nineties. The boys at the Met station have no more idea what is going on than the regulars at the Swan. Only a stand-offish visiting scientist suspects aliens are to blame. Meanwhile the new secretary to the local best-selling author is raising the temperature in her own way."
"While mainland Britain shivers in deepest winter, the northern island of Fara bakes in the nineties. The boys at the Met station have no more idea what is going on than the regulars at the Swan. Only a stand-offish visiting scientist suspects aliens are to blame. Meanwhile the new secretary to the local best-selling author is raising the temperature in her own way."
On this day in 2019 (in the Netherlands), Assimilate enjoyed its debut on home video. Written (in part) and directed by John Murlowski, the SciFi/Horror starred Joel Courtney, Calum Worthy, and Andi Matichak. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Three friends making a web series about their town discover that their neighbors are being killed and replaced by creatures who are perfect copies of their victims."
"Three friends making a web series about their town discover that their neighbors are being killed and replaced by creatures who are perfect copies of their victims."
On this day in 1952, Adventures of Superman aired "The Haunted Lighthouse." This served as the second episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"While visiting his aunt and cousin on Moose Island, Jimmy is alarmed by their suspicious behavior. After being warned to stay away from a lighthouse that is said to be haunted, he calls Clark for help in his investigation."
"While visiting his aunt and cousin on Moose Island, Jimmy is alarmed by their suspicious behavior. After being warned to stay away from a lighthouse that is said to be haunted, he calls Clark for help in his investigation."
On this day in 1952, Tales Of Tomorrow aired "Youth On Tap." This served as the sixth episode of the program's second (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A man named Jeff definitely has his share of problems: his truck has been stolen, his girlfriend Kitty is impatiently waiting to be married, and he only has one week to come up with a thousand dollars to buy a gas station with so he can earn money. When a mysterious Dr. Platan shows up offering the thousand dollars for a pint of Jeff's common blood type (type A), Jeff accepts at first, but then has doubts..."
"A man named Jeff definitely has his share of problems: his truck has been stolen, his girlfriend Kitty is impatiently waiting to be married, and he only has one week to come up with a thousand dollars to buy a gas station with so he can earn money. When a mysterious Dr. Platan shows up offering the thousand dollars for a pint of Jeff's common blood type (type A), Jeff accepts at first, but then has doubts..."
On this day in 1953, Space Patrol aired "The Man-Eating Plant Of Planet X." (Note: Some outlets listed this particular adventure under the name of "Black Falcon's Escape From Planet X.") This served as the thirty-ninth episode of the program's third season, and here's the plot summary as provided by SolarGuard.Com:
"Commander Corry dangles helplessly at the end of a rope over a vapor pit. Major Robertson has been caught in the cunning grip of the wolf plants of Planet X. Prince Baccarratti lears ominously, certain of his eventual triumph over the Space Patrol and the United Planets."
"Commander Corry dangles helplessly at the end of a rope over a vapor pit. Major Robertson has been caught in the cunning grip of the wolf plants of Planet X. Prince Baccarratti lears ominously, certain of his eventual triumph over the Space Patrol and the United Planets."
On this day in 1953, Tom Corbett, Space Cadet aired "The Outpost Of Danger." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the adventure's plot summary:
"Tom and his crew respond to a distress signal and find an remote outpost whose colonists are ravaged by a deadly disease."
"Tom and his crew respond to a distress signal and find an remote outpost whose colonists are ravaged by a deadly disease."
On this day in 1959 (in the United Kingdom), The Invisible Man aired "Point Of Destruction." This served as the first episode of the program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When a friend of Peter's, Scott, attempts to perfect his fuel diffuser, four pilots are killed in four separate test flights. Peter steps in to determine if sabotage is involved and who on Scott's team may be responsible."
"When a friend of Peter's, Scott, attempts to perfect his fuel diffuser, four pilots are killed in four separate test flights. Peter steps in to determine if sabotage is involved and who on Scott's team may be responsible."
On this day in 1959, World Of Giants aired "Death Trap." This served as the fourth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary from Wikipedia.org:
"A briefcase containing Mel is lost after a car accident."
"A briefcase containing Mel is lost after a car accident."
On this day in 1966 (in Japan), The Space Giants aired "Taron - Super Heat Monster." This served as the thirteenth episode of the program's only season, and here's the (edited) plot summary from The Space Giants Online Guide:
"An observatory in Australia reports a mysterious S.O.S. signal coming from a planet in outer space. The planet is called Kuwal (Pal), and it has been attacked by the heat creature Taron (Aron), sent there by Rodak! The King of Kuwal tells his daughter Lita (Lihza) that she must escape to Earth in a space-boat and tell the people of Earth what has happened. Tearfully, Lita leaves her father and escapes the doomed planet."
"An observatory in Australia reports a mysterious S.O.S. signal coming from a planet in outer space. The planet is called Kuwal (Pal), and it has been attacked by the heat creature Taron (Aron), sent there by Rodak! The King of Kuwal tells his daughter Lita (Lihza) that she must escape to Earth in a space-boat and tell the people of Earth what has happened. Tearfully, Lita leaves her father and escapes the doomed planet."
On this day in 1986, Starman aired "Like Father, Like Son." This served as the second episode in the program's only season of existence, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Deciding that hitch-hiking is too inefficient a method of travel, Paul and Scott decide to buy an automobile, and after making the purchase pick up a mother and daughter who have car trouble. After dropping off the car at a garage and finding a hotel, Paul and Scott discover that the police are after their friends as well."
"Deciding that hitch-hiking is too inefficient a method of travel, Paul and Scott decide to buy an automobile, and after making the purchase pick up a mother and daughter who have car trouble. After dropping off the car at a garage and finding a hotel, Paul and Scott discover that the police are after their friends as well."
On this day in 1986, The Adventures of the Galaxy Rangers aired "The Power Within." This (technically) served as the program's twentieth episode (they were aired wildly out of order), and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"While investigating the disappearance of several ships in a sector, the Rangers are captured by Nimrod. He strips them of their badges then forces them into a game where Nimrod hunts the Rangers. Can the Rangers survive the game without their powers?"
"While investigating the disappearance of several ships in a sector, the Rangers are captured by Nimrod. He strips them of their badges then forces them into a game where Nimrod hunts the Rangers. Can the Rangers survive the game without their powers?"
It all began right here: on this day in 1987 (in the United States and Brazil), Star Trek: The Next Generation aired "Encounter At Farpoint." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"On the maiden mission of the U.S.S. Enterprise (NCC-1701-D), an omnipotent being known as Q challenges the crew to discover the secret of a mysterious base in an advanced and civilized fashion."
"On the maiden mission of the U.S.S. Enterprise (NCC-1701-D), an omnipotent being known as Q challenges the crew to discover the secret of a mysterious base in an advanced and civilized fashion."
On this day in 1990 (in the United Kingdom), Star Trek: The Next Generation aired "Encounter At Farpoint." Officially, this served as the first episode in the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"On the maiden mission of the U.S.S. Enterprise (NCC-1701-D), an omnipotent being known as Q challenges the crew to discover the secret of a mysterious base in an advanced and civilized fashion."
"On the maiden mission of the U.S.S. Enterprise (NCC-1701-D), an omnipotent being known as Q challenges the crew to discover the secret of a mysterious base in an advanced and civilized fashion."
On this day in 1992, Star Trek: The Next Generation aired "Realm Of Fear." This served as the second episode of the program's sixth season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Overcoming his fear of transporter, Lt. Barclay joins an away team, only to find something in the beam with him."
"Overcoming his fear of transporter, Lt. Barclay joins an away team, only to find something in the beam with him."
On this day in 1992, The Ray Bradbury Theater aired "The Dead Man." This served as the seventh episode of the program's sixth season, and here's the plot summary provided by IMDB.com:
"A lonely middle-aged woman moves to a small town to take a job as a manicurist and finds she is strangely drawn to local eccentric Odd Martin--who claims to be dead."
"A lonely middle-aged woman moves to a small town to take a job as a manicurist and finds she is strangely drawn to local eccentric Odd Martin--who claims to be dead."
On this day in 1993, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman aired "Strange Visitor (From Another Planet)." This served as the second episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A paranoid rogue Federal agent's investigation of Superman leaves Clark wondering about his true origins."
"A paranoid rogue Federal agent's investigation of Superman leaves Clark wondering about his true origins."
On this day in 1993, Seaquest DSV aired "Treasure Of The Mind." Officially, this served as the third episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"When a preserved annexe of the Great Library of Alexandria is discovered, many nations send their fleets to lay claim to its treasures. The UEO orders Bridger to mediate the dispute and sends a team of ESP parapsychologists to help the negotiations."
"When a preserved annexe of the Great Library of Alexandria is discovered, many nations send their fleets to lay claim to its treasures. The UEO orders Bridger to mediate the dispute and sends a team of ESP parapsychologists to help the negotiations."
On this day in 1993, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine returned for its second season with the airing of "The Homecoming." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"Word that a previously thought dead Bajoran resistance legend is still alive sends Kira and Chief O'Brien to Cardassia IV to rescue him; meanwhile "The Circle", a sect of the Bajoran provisional government that is intent on wiping out alien influence, is sneaking into power."
"Word that a previously thought dead Bajoran resistance legend is still alive sends Kira and Chief O'Brien to Cardassia IV to rescue him; meanwhile "The Circle", a sect of the Bajoran provisional government that is intent on wiping out alien influence, is sneaking into power."
On this day in 1994, Ocean Girl aired "Human Tears." This served as the fifth episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as detailed on IMDB.com:
"Jason talks to Neri about the divorce of his parents. Meanwhile, Dianne is trying to convince Commander Lucas to ratify new equipment for her lab and Brett is convinced that his mother wants Commander Lucas to be his step-father."
"Jason talks to Neri about the divorce of his parents. Meanwhile, Dianne is trying to convince Commander Lucas to ratify new equipment for her lab and Brett is convinced that his mother wants Commander Lucas to be his step-father."
It all began right here: on this day in 1994, Gerry Anderson's Space Precinct premiered with the airing of "Welcome To Demeter City." According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the plot summary:
"In the year 2037, Lieutenant Patrick Brogan is transferred to the Space Precinct on Altor after 15 years of service in the New York Police Department, and he and his family travel there in a state of suspended animation. 3 years later, the President of Altor decides to travel to Demeter City by monorail. However, Breon the President's aid, has given the security code for the monorail to Victor Lann in exchange for his family's safety."
"In the year 2037, Lieutenant Patrick Brogan is transferred to the Space Precinct on Altor after 15 years of service in the New York Police Department, and he and his family travel there in a state of suspended animation. 3 years later, the President of Altor decides to travel to Demeter City by monorail. However, Breon the President's aid, has given the security code for the monorail to Victor Lann in exchange for his family's safety."
On this day in 1994, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine aired "The Search: Part 1." This served as the first episode in the program's third season, and here's the premise that's provided via IMDB.com:
"Instead of waiting for the Jem'Hadar to attack, Sisko wants to try a different tack; he wants to take a new class starship to try to find the Founders."
"Instead of waiting for the Jem'Hadar to attack, Sisko wants to try a different tack; he wants to take a new class starship to try to find the Founders."
On this day in 1997, Stargate: SG-1 aired "Thor's Hammer." This served as the ninth episode to the long-running program's first season, and here's the plot summary as detailed by IMDB.com:
"SG-1 goes to the planet Cimmeria in search of allies against the Goa'uld. Upon arrival, Jack and Teal'c are trapped in a labyrinth, where the only exit is through Thor's Hammer, a device to destroy Goa'uld, but preserve the host. Daniel Jackson must destroy the device that could someday have saved his wife in order to free his friends."
"SG-1 goes to the planet Cimmeria in search of allies against the Goa'uld. Upon arrival, Jack and Teal'c are trapped in a labyrinth, where the only exit is through Thor's Hammer, a device to destroy Goa'uld, but preserve the host. Daniel Jackson must destroy the device that could someday have saved his wife in order to free his friends."
On this day in 1999, Fox TV's Futurama aired "A Flight To Remember." This served as the premiere for the popular program's second season, and here's the plot summary as provided by our friends at IMDB.com:
"Professor Farnsworth treats the Planet Express crew to a vacation on the largest, most luxurious space cruise ship ever built... the Titanic. Once in space, love is in the air as Bender falls for a beautiful robot Countess and Fry dates both Leela and Amy. Captain Zapp Brannigan sets a course for adventure when he decides to steer the Titanic through a swarm of comets, or as he calls them, "the icebergs of the sky"."
"Professor Farnsworth treats the Planet Express crew to a vacation on the largest, most luxurious space cruise ship ever built... the Titanic. Once in space, love is in the air as Bender falls for a beautiful robot Countess and Fry dates both Leela and Amy. Captain Zapp Brannigan sets a course for adventure when he decides to steer the Titanic through a swarm of comets, or as he calls them, "the icebergs of the sky"."
On this day in 2000 (in Germany), Farscape aired "Back And Back And Back To The Future." Officially, this served as the third episode in the program's first season; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"The crew rescues a scientist and his assistant from a disintegrating ship. Crichton starts seeing the future, which holds death for the crew and Moya. He tries to influence the course of events but cannot change the outcome until they all learn what their guests are truly hiding."
"The crew rescues a scientist and his assistant from a disintegrating ship. Crichton starts seeing the future, which holds death for the crew and Moya. He tries to influence the course of events but cannot change the outcome until they all learn what their guests are truly hiding."
Unlike most critics, I actually thought the idea surrounding Star Trek: Enterprise -- the idea of going back in time before the Federation existed -- was brilliant. My thinking at the time was that we were going to shed the glossy political correctness of that "perfect union" in favor of showing Earth man's first real struggles to reach the distant stars. It could be the launching pad for something really, really special in all of Trekdom ... and then it premiered, and I realized the powers that be basically threw all of that promise out the nearest airlock in favor of something vastly more familiar than it should've been. Still, kudos to Paramount for keeping the torch alive as long as they did, and the two-hour premiere titled "Broken Bow" first hit the airwaves on this day back in 2001. According to our friends at TrekCore.com, here's the plot summary:
"When a Klingon is injured escaping from the Suliban in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, Starfleet Command views it as the perfect opportunity to launch their first warp five starship, the NX-01 Enterprise, commanded by Captain Jonathan Archer, to return the Klingon to Qo'nos, the Klingon homeworld."
"When a Klingon is injured escaping from the Suliban in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, Starfleet Command views it as the perfect opportunity to launch their first warp five starship, the NX-01 Enterprise, commanded by Captain Jonathan Archer, to return the Klingon to Qo'nos, the Klingon homeworld."
On this day in 2001 (in the U.S.), Wolf Lake aired "The Changing." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's only season of original broadcast existence, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Kanin learns that an affliction known as "the Changing" kills a surprising number of teenagers in Wolf Lake every year, and confers tremendous status and privilege on those who survive it. But when he tries to figure out exactly what the Changing is, he runs afoul of the townspeople and incurs the wrath of Sheriff Donner."
"Kanin learns that an affliction known as "the Changing" kills a surprising number of teenagers in Wolf Lake every year, and confers tremendous status and privilege on those who survive it. But when he tries to figure out exactly what the Changing is, he runs afoul of the townspeople and incurs the wrath of Sheriff Donner."
On this day in 2002 (in Hungary), Star Trek: Voyager aired "Workforce: Part 1." Officially, this served as the sixteenth episode in the program's seventh (and final) season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Upon returning from a mission, Chakotay, Kim and Neelix find Voyager abandoned and the Doctor the only crew member aboard. The entire crew have been kidnapped, their memories erased and they are now working in an alien industrial complex. Chakotay and Neelix infiltrate the complex and have to make Captain Janeway remember."
"Upon returning from a mission, Chakotay, Kim and Neelix find Voyager abandoned and the Doctor the only crew member aboard. The entire crew have been kidnapped, their memories erased and they are now working in an alien industrial complex. Chakotay and Neelix infiltrate the complex and have to make Captain Janeway remember."
On this day in 2006, Eureka aired "H.O.U.S.E. Rules." This served as the eleventh episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"A bad day in the lab forces Carter to rethink his decision to live in Eureka, prompting an intervention from S.A.R.A.H. (the self Activated Residential Automated Habitat)."
"A bad day in the lab forces Carter to rethink his decision to live in Eureka, prompting an intervention from S.A.R.A.H. (the self Activated Residential Automated Habitat)."
On this day in 2007, a fully rebooted Bionic Woman premiered on television. This version starred the lovely Michelle Ryan filling in the bionic shoes of Jaime Sommers, and here's the plot summary from IMDB.com:
"Jamie Sommers is a young woman and college dropout working at a San Francisco nightclub to support her rebellious 15-year-old sister Becca since the death of their parents. But her life changes in one night when the car Jamie is riding in with her fiancée is hit by a truck. But help arrives in the form of a top-secret government team, led by the shady Jonas Bledsoe, who saves Jamie's life by having her severely damaged legs, right arm, and right eye and ear replaced with million-dollar bionics which give Jamie superhuman abilities."
"Jamie Sommers is a young woman and college dropout working at a San Francisco nightclub to support her rebellious 15-year-old sister Becca since the death of their parents. But her life changes in one night when the car Jamie is riding in with her fiancée is hit by a truck. But help arrives in the form of a top-secret government team, led by the shady Jonas Bledsoe, who saves Jamie's life by having her severely damaged legs, right arm, and right eye and ear replaced with million-dollar bionics which give Jamie superhuman abilities."
On this day in 2009 (in Germany), Firefly aired "Bushwhacked." Officially, this served as the second episode in the program's only season in original broadcast existence; and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Serenity is pulled in by an Alliance cruiser while investigating a spaceship that was attacked by Reavers. Simon and River must hide to prevent capture, while something is wrong with the lone survivor of the attacked spaceship."
"Serenity is pulled in by an Alliance cruiser while investigating a spaceship that was attacked by Reavers. Simon and River must hide to prevent capture, while something is wrong with the lone survivor of the attacked spaceship."
On this day in 2011, Alphas aired "Original Sin." This served as the eleventh episode of the program's first season, and here's the plot summary as provided by IMDB.com:
"Dr. Rosen (David Strathairn) and his team must decide who to trust when Red Flag, led by Stanton Parish (guest star John Pyper-Ferguson), escalates the war on the Department of Defense."
"Dr. Rosen (David Strathairn) and his team must decide who to trust when Red Flag, led by Stanton Parish (guest star John Pyper-Ferguson), escalates the war on the Department of Defense."
It all began right here: the Walt Disney Company bought Lucasfilm, and the first incarnation of Star Wars they launched was Star Wars: Rebels for Disney XD on this day in 2014. According to our friends at IMDB.com, here's the premise for the hour-long launch titled "Spark of Rebellion":
"Ezra is a normal boy who finds himself caught up in the beginning of the Rebellion against the mighty Empire."
"Ezra is a normal boy who finds himself caught up in the beginning of the Rebellion against the mighty Empire."
On this day in 2015, Doctor Who aired the second episode to the long-running program's ninth season, "The Witch's Familiar." This was the second part of the two-part opener, and -- according to our friends at IMDB.com -- here's the plot summary:
"Trapped and alone in a terrifying Dalek city, the Doctor is at the heart of an evil Empire; no sonic, no TARDIS, nobody to help. With his greatest temptation before him, can the Doctor resist? And will there be mercy?"
"Trapped and alone in a terrifying Dalek city, the Doctor is at the heart of an evil Empire; no sonic, no TARDIS, nobody to help. With his greatest temptation before him, can the Doctor resist? And will there be mercy?"
It all began right here: on this day in 1937, The Shadow radio serial premiered, bringing the adventures of one of the coolest crime fighters ever to the masses at large. The first episode was titled "The Death House Rescue," and here's the adventure's plot summary as provided by The Shadow Wiki:
"A man who's looking for a job mistakenly becomes involved with a bank robbery. He is later sentenced to death for a cop killing he didn't commit. The Shadow investigates and locates a missed piece of evidence, which helps free the wrongly accused man."
"A man who's looking for a job mistakenly becomes involved with a bank robbery. He is later sentenced to death for a cop killing he didn't commit. The Shadow investigates and locates a missed piece of evidence, which helps free the wrongly accused man."
