TREKCORE > TAS > EPISODES > BEYOND THE FARTHEST STAR > Behind the Scenes
 

	With the original "Star Trek" series proving more popular in syndication than it did on NBC, Paramount Television decided it might be worth the risk to bring the show back. To help keep the costs down on this risky venture, they changed the format of the show from live action to animation where they wouldn't have to pay for expensive sets, costumes, special effects and Walter Koenig.
	Taking full advantage of the animation aspect of the series, this episode marks the first appearance of the tri-limbed Lieutenant Arex, a character that would never have been possible on the original "Star Trek." Arex would go on to become a semi-regular on the series, replacing Ensign Pavel Chekov as navigator of the Enterprise.
	Writer Samuel L. Peeples wrote the second pilot for "Star Trek" -- "Where No Man Has Gone Before."
	Lieutenant Kyle, the semi-regular transporter operator from such classic episodes as "The Doomsday Machine" and "Mirror, Mirror" reappears from the original series, however, is voiced by James Doohan, replacing John Winston in the role. Kyle would not be seen again until "Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan."
	First and only use of the "Automatic Bridge Defense System." The device was never seen again in any subsequent "Star Trek" series.
	When the cutter-beams move the beam off of Scotty, the sound-effect it makes when it hits the floor is a common sound-effect from "The Flintstones."
	Around the time when this episode was to air, George Takei was running for mayor of Los Angeles. Due to the "equal time" rule, some Los Angeles stations were prohibited from running this episode until after all votes had been cast.

BACK TO EPISODES HOME, BACK TO BEYOND THE FARTHEST STAR INDEX, Quick Section Links: Behind the Scenes, Credits, Guest Characters, Quotes, Screencaps, Synopsis