In the ever-evolving landscape of television, it's fascinating to delve into the untold stories of networks that could have been. Today, we explore Paramount's intriguing journey towards creating its own TV network, a venture that, while ambitious, faced numerous challenges and twists along the way.
The Early Dreams: Paramount's First Venture
The story of Paramount's TV aspirations begins in the late 1940s. Back then, Paramount Pictures was a key player in the DuMont Television Network, one of the pioneers in American television. In 1948, the Paramount Television Network was born, marking an early entry into the burgeoning world of television. However, this initial attempt was short-lived, with the network closing its doors in 1956.
Despite this early setback, Paramount's desire to establish its own network persisted. This dream finally materialized in 1995 with the launch of the United Paramount Network (UPN). On its inaugural night, UPN premiered the sci-fi sensation, "Star Trek: Voyager," a bold move that set the tone for the network's identity.
UPN: A Brief but Impactful Journey
UPN's existence, though brief, left an indelible mark on television. It premiered with a bang, but its journey was fraught with challenges. A quick glance at UPN's programming reveals a litany of shows that failed to make it past their first season. Yet, "Star Trek: Voyager" stood out, achieving a level of success that eluded many of its UPN counterparts.
Despite its valiant efforts, UPN's run came to an end in 2006, when Viacom's corporate restructuring merged it with The WB to form The CW. This marked the end of an era, but it was a testament to Paramount's enduring vision.
The Unmade Network: Paramount Television Service (PTS)
Between UPN's demise and its initial launch, Paramount made another significant attempt to establish its own network. In 1977, a New Times article revealed Paramount's plans to use the then-in-development series, "Star Trek: Phase II," as the flagship show for its new network, the Paramount Television Service (PTS).
"Star Trek: Phase II" was an ambitious project, aiming to bring back the iconic USS Enterprise and reunite the original series cast, with the notable exception of Leonard Nimoy due to legal disputes with show creator Gene Roddenberry. The series introduced new characters, including the Deltan Ilia and the Vulcan Xon.
However, this ambitious project faced significant challenges. The production costs were astronomical for the time, with the two-part opening episode estimated at $2 million and subsequent episodes at $500,000 each. Additionally, the absence of Spock, the franchise's most beloved character, sparked outrage among Trekkies, who threatened to boycott the show.
Despite these challenges, Barry Diller, then-president of Paramount, remained optimistic. He envisioned Paramount as a competitor in the rising broadcasting advertising revenue market, believing there was room for more than three networks.
However, fate had other plans. "Star Trek: Phase II" was canceled just days before production was set to begin, and with it, the PTS was shelved. Paramount instead focused on "Star Trek: The Motion Picture," which became a landmark in the franchise's history.
What Could Have Been: The Legacy of PTS
The question remains: What would have happened if PTS had come to fruition? Would Paramount have become a major player in television? It's a fascinating thought experiment, one that invites speculation and imagination.
Barry Diller, undeterred by Paramount's decision, took his network idea to 20th Century Fox, creating the Fox Broadcasting Company. Meanwhile, Paramount found success with UPN in 1995 and later with "Star Trek: Discovery" on CBS All Access in 2017, continuing its legacy in the world of television.
In conclusion, Paramount's journey towards establishing its own TV network is a testament to the risks and rewards of the entertainment industry. While PTS remains an unfulfilled dream, its story serves as a reminder of the intricate dance between ambition, creativity, and the unpredictable nature of the television business.
