The original Star Trek series, which aired from 1966 to 1969, is well-known for its groundbreaking storytelling and diverse characters. Among the many memorable aspects of the show were the beautiful female characters who graced the screen. From the crew of the USS Enterprise to the various guest stars, Star Trek featured a range of captivating women who added excitement and intrigue to the series.
One of the earliest and most notable characters was Yeoman Janice Rand, played by Grace Lee Whitney. Janice was a strong female character who worked closely with Captain Kirk. She was known for her courage and loyalty. Unfortunately, her time on the show was cut short due to a mix of personal struggles and production decisions. Whitney faced challenges with alcoholism, and her character was written out of the show. Despite this setback, she later found some redemption in the Star Trek films, thanks to DeForest Kelley, who helped her find work again. Her story highlights the complexities of life behind the scenes.
Another memorable guest star was Karen Steele, who appeared in the episode “Mudd’s Women.” Steele had a significant role in the film Marty (1955) before joining the Star Trek universe. Although her appearances on the show were limited, her beauty and talent made a lasting impression. She represented the strong female characters that were becoming more common in the science fiction genre.
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Maggie Thrett also made her mark in Star Trek. She appeared in the episode “Mudd’s Women” as one of the beautiful women brought aboard by Harcourt Fenton Mudd. Thrett had a brief singing career before her role on the show. Unfortunately, a near-fatal motorcycle accident changed her life and pushed her away from the spotlight. Her story serves as a reminder of the challenges many actors face in their careers.
Susan Denberg, a German-born actress and Playboy Playmate of August 1966, brought a unique flair to Star Trek. She starred in the episode “The Way to Eden,” where her character showcased both beauty and depth. Denberg had previously appeared in the film Frankenstein Created Woman (1967), but her voice was dubbed due to her thick accent. This shows how the entertainment industry often placed certain pressures on actresses, even in the 1960s.
Finally, there’s Sherry Jackson, known for her role as the eldest daughter on The Danny Thomas Show. Jackson played a charming guest role in Star Trek, where her character found herself in a dangerous situation. As she transitioned into adulthood, she took on more daring roles, including a nude scene in the movie Gunn (1967) that was cut from the American release. Her appearance in Playboy that same year marked a significant shift in her career.
