Star Trek: The 14 best episodes of The Next Generation, ranked
![Nov. 2, 2015 – CBS Television Studios announced today it will launch a totally new “Star Trek” television series in January 2017. The brand-new “Star Trek” will introduce new characters seeking imaginative new worlds and new civilizations, while exploring the dramatic contemporary themes that have been a signature of the franchise since its inception in 1966. The new series will blast off with a special preview broadcast on the CBS Television Network. The premiere episode and all subsequent first-run episodes will then be available exclusively in the United States on CBS All Access, the Network’s digital subscription video on demand and live streaming service.Pictured: Patrick Stewart as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATIONScreen grab: ©1990 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. Nov. 2, 2015 – CBS Television Studios announced today it will launch a totally new “Star Trek” television series in January 2017. The brand-new “Star Trek” will introduce new characters seeking imaginative new worlds and new civilizations, while exploring the dramatic contemporary themes that have been a signature of the franchise since its inception in 1966. The new series will blast off with a special preview broadcast on the CBS Television Network. The premiere episode and all subsequent first-run episodes will then be available exclusively in the United States on CBS All Access, the Network’s digital subscription video on demand and live streaming service.Pictured: Patrick Stewart as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATIONScreen grab: ©1990 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/a81859271df91bc2f4b9c7e78402fa05c6fc3559f1c6b7e2f154478c3e044c82.jpg)
5 and 4. “All Good Things…” (season 7, episodes 25 and 26, series finale)
“All Good Things…” stands as a stellar example of science fiction storytelling and a testament to the enduring appeal of Star Trek: The Next Generation. This series finale not only wraps up the seven-season journey of the USS Enterprise and its crew but does so with such finesse that is nothing short of masterful.
What sets this episode apart is its ingenious use of time travel, creating a complex yet captivating narrative that spans three different timelines. Captain Jean-Luc Picard finds himself shifting between the past, present, and a distant future, facing a mysterious anomaly that threatens the fabric of existence itself. The intricate interplay of these timelines is the final testament to the show’s commitment to intelligent and entertaining storytelling, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as they unravel the mysteries alongside the characters.
“All Good Things…” excels in character development, providing a fitting farewell to all of our beloved crew members. The episode not only pays homage to the series’ rich history but also gives each character a moment to shine. From Picard’s introspective journey to Data’s unwavering loyalty, the finale successfully tugs at the heartstrings of fans who have grown attached to these iconic figures over the years.
The clever and typical combination of drama, suspense, and nostalgia ensures that the episode hits deeply with viewers, making it a standout in the series. As the culmination of The Next Generation‘s legacy, “All Good Things…” earns its place as the four-and-fifth-best episodes, offering a satisfying and emotional conclusion to one of the most beloved and entertaining sci-fi shows of all time.