The first season of Star Trek: The Next Generation was famously turbulent, but behind the scenes, it was also a hive of creative experimentation and open doors for new voices.

This week, we welcome veteran writer/producer Cash Edwards, whose original story pitch “The True One” caught the attention of Gene Roddenberry, D.C. Fontana, and his longtime friend, producer Herb Wright. Though the script wasn’t produced, it sparked genuine enthusiasm, and Herb’s memo to Gene is our document of the week.

Cash joins Larry to share memories from TNG’s earliest days: working closely with the producers, meeting the cast, and witnessing the scramble for scripts that defined Season One. He also reveals some, let’s say colorful, ideas he contributed to the development of the Ferengi’s first appearance (laser bolos, anyone? leech grenades?).

It’s a window into a time when Star Trek was still figuring itself out and welcoming new creatives into the mix who helped shape the journey.

📄 Document and additional references: Memo from Herb Wright to Gene Roddenberry re: “The True One” (1987)

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