In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Akiva Goldsman reflects on the enduring appeal of Star Trek as the franchise celebrates its 60th anniversary.
As Star Trek marks its 60th anniversary, Akiva Goldsman, co-creator of Strange New Worlds, shared his thoughts on the franchise's longevity in an interview published by The Hollywood Reporter on September 11, 2026. Goldsman, a lifelong fan of the series, explored the reasons behind its sustained relevance and what’s next for its dedicated fanbase.
In his conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, Goldsman emphasized that Star Trek continues to resonate due to its optimistic vision of the future. He articulated that the franchise reflects a world where humanity collaborates across differences, a message he believes is increasingly important in today’s challenging societal landscape. The ideals of cooperation and compassion depicted in the series remain relevant, echoing sentiments from its original run in the late 1960s.
Goldsman noted that the show provided an aspirational view during turbulent times, both in the 1960s and now. He pointed out that turbulent historical periods often enhance the appeal of Star Trek, as audiences seek hope and inspiration through its narratives.
Currently, Strange New Worlds is in its fourth season, streaming on Paramount+. Goldsman revealed that filming for the fifth and final season has been completed, with six episodes set to conclude the series. He mentioned that while their show aimed to be accessible to new viewers, it also rewarded longtime fans with references and connections to the original series.
Goldsman emphasized that the creative journey has approached a narrative climax that aligns with the original series’ beginning, aiming to smoothly transition into 1966’s Star Trek as Captain James T. Kirk takes command of the USS Enterprise.
Despite his passion for the franchise, Goldsman expressed uncertainty about successfully capturing the next generation of Star Trek fans, even within his own family. He noted that while he has made attempts to engage his children with the series, they have shown little interest. However, he maintained an optimistic belief that future audiences will discover Star Trek, as much of its core message aligns with hopeful visions for humanity.
This outlook on the franchise’s future suggests that Star Trek may continue to inspire upcoming viewers who are drawn to its themes of unity and exploration, much like the generations before them.
Akiva Goldsman's reflections highlight the ongoing legacy of Star Trek, emphasizing its foundational messages of cooperation and optimism. As the franchise moves toward the culmination of Strange New Worlds, it aims to honor its roots while forging pathways for the next wave of fans. The finalized sixth season promises a satisfying wrap-up to the show's narrative arcs, marking a critical juncture for the enduring Star Trek legacy.
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