15-17 Three Days Before Star Trek: Gene Roddenberry at Tricon
Summary
Host Larry Nemecek and guest Glenn Swanson examine archival documents revealing Gene Roddenberry’s attendance at the 1966 Worldcon in Cleveland. They discuss how Roddenberry screened the Star Trek pilots to a skeptical audience of science fiction writers, bringing props and costumes to prove the show’s serious scientific approach. The episode highlights the logistical details of the event, including the rescheduling of the screening and the significant impact on the hardcore fan community just days before the series premiered.
Topics discussed
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Introduction and Star Trek Day greeting
Guest intro: Glenn Swanson and WorldCon 1966 context
Audio sample: Ben Jason's invitation letter
First public pilot screening at Nebula Awards
Logistics of Gene's trip to Cleveland
Gene's presence and reception at Tricon
Perception of sci-fi in the 1960s
Hesitation among sci-fi writers and other films shown
Gene's SFWA badge and intent to be taken seriously
Costumes and props displayed at the convention
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Rescheduling the pilot screening to Saturday
Screening details: 16mm and color vs black and white
WorldCon voting structure and audience reaction
Anecdote: Gene tells Isaac Asimov to shut up
Display of the Enterprise model and props
Outro, community links, and final sponsor
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