Ranking the Finales of Every Star Trek Series

Star Trek has been a cultural phenomenon since the 1960s, captivating audiences with its unique concept. The Original Series, often described as a Wagon Train to the stars, initially ran for three seasons. However, the franchise has experienced a remarkable resurgence through films and the creation of additional series. In total, there have been eight captivating live action series under the esteemed Star Trek banner, with an impressive six of them reaching a series finale.

The power of a series finale is profound, as it can leave a lasting impression on fans. While some finales have successfully sailed into the sunset, ensuring a satisfying conclusion, others have failed to meet expectations. In this list, we explore the finest Star Trek series finales that have truly excelled in leaving fans with remarkable memories.

6. These Are The Voyages

Star Trek: Enterprise - 5.3 Rating (IMDB)

During the early 2000s, Star Trek ventured into a prequel series that portrayed the time when humans first achieved warp technology. Known as Star Trek: Enterprise, the show garnered a dedicated fan base, although it did not receive as much acclaim as its sequel series. However, the series finale of Enterprise was widely criticized and disliked by viewers.

5. Turnabout Intruder

The finale for Enterprise took an unexpected turn, with a holodeck recreation featuring Commander Riker from The Next Generation. This decision angered many Enterprise fans as they believed the focus should have remained on their favorite show. Even members of the cast have expressed their dissatisfaction with the finale.

Star Trek: The Original Series - 6.8 Rating (IMDB)

Turnabout Intruder, the last episode of season three in The Original Series, stands out among all other series finales as it was not originally intended to serve as one. During filming, the creators of the show were unaware of its impending cancellation, therefore failing to develop a proper conclusion to the series.

In this particular episode, Kirk's former girlfriend executes a body swap with him and assumes the command of the Enterprise, since Starfleet did not permit female captains at the time. Though considered progressive by the standards of the 1960s, this storyline has been subsequently altered or disregarded in nearly every series that followed.

4. Endgame

Star Trek: Voyager - 8.6 Rating (IMDB)

In the series finale of Star Trek: Voyager, the crew finally manages to break free from the confines of the Delta quadrant. In this episode, Captain Janeway from the future travels back in time to expedite the return of her crew to their home, several years ahead of schedule. However, amidst this daring rescue mission, there are unfortunate casualties along the way.

3. What You Leave Behind

Janeway discovers a way to utilize the power of the Borg in order to return home, simultaneously dealing a significant blow to the collective. Kate Mulgrew's exceptional performance showcases her portrayal of both versions of herself as she wrestles with the decision to use the Borg to her advantage. Although Voyager may not have received the same level of appreciation as other sequel trilogies, its final episode delivers a truly unique premise.

Star Trek: Deep Space Nine - 8.9 Rating (IMDB)

Deep Space Nine took a unique approach throughout the series, so it was only fitting that the series finale would differ from previous Star Trek finales. The Federation had the challenge of resolving the Dominion War while also addressing the menacing Cardassians and the disruptive Pah-Wraiths connected to the space station, which often caused trouble for Starfleet.

The finale of Deep Space Nine skillfully tied up loose ends and provided a satisfying conclusion. It showcased a thrilling victory for the Federation and a bittersweet farewell for Captain Sisko and his son, Jake Sisko. Unlike other series that involved interstellar travel, Deep Space Nine had to find ways to create compelling storylines within the confines of a space station, and it successfully accomplished this throughout its seven seasons, culminating in a remarkable finale.

2. All Good Things...

Star Trek: The Next Generation - 9.1 Rating (IMDB)

When it initially aired, the finale of Star Trek: The Next Generation seemed to be the most adored in the entire Star Trek franchise. In this episode, Picard and Q embark on a journey across various time periods in order to preserve the universe by averting a cataclysmic anomaly. With the assistance of three different versions of the Enterprise, Picard and one of his greatest adversaries collaborate to successfully save the day.

Both Patrick Stewart and John de Lancie received high praise for their performances in this final episode. The dynamic between Picard and Q, which has always been compelling, reaches a new level of greatness here. It is fitting that it takes Jean-Luc Picard himself to ultimately overcome the challenges posed by his own doppelgänger.

1. The Last Generation

Star Trek: Picard - 9.4 Rating (IMDB)

Paramount Plus revived Star Trek on TV with three live action series, to date. Star Trek: Picard, the only one to conclude its mission, continues Captain Picard's story years after The Next Generation's ending. Despite facing heavy criticism in its first season, the third and final season of the show has garnered widespread acclaim, especially for its series finale.

In the last season, many members of The Next Generation's crew returned as Picard faced off against the notorious Borg one last time. Additionally, he discovers his previously unknown son, fathered with Dr. Beverly Crusher, despite being unaware of his existence. This narrative showcases growth for each character from The Next Generation crew and introduces new cast members who contribute to the show's familial development.

Editor's P/S

As a hard fan of Star Trek, I have mixed feelings about the finales of the various series. Some, like "Turnabout Intruder" from The Original Series, were not intended to be finales and it shows. Others, like "These Are the Voyages..." from Star Trek: Enterprise, were widely criticized by fans for their lackluster execution. However, there were also some truly exceptional finales, such as "Endgame" from Star Trek: Voyager and "What You Leave Behind" from Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, which provided satisfying conclusions to their respective series.

Overall, I believe that the Star Trek finales have been a mixed bag, but the best of them have managed to capture the essence of what makes the franchise so special: its optimism, its sense of adventure, and its commitment to exploring the human condition.