A Deep Dive into the Most Hated Episode of Star Trek: Voyager - 'Threshold'

The most hated episode of Star Trek: Voyager, “Threshold”, has long been a point of contention among fans. So despised is it that even the creators themselves have disowned the episode, effectively retconning it out of existence in a subsequent episode titled “Dark Frontier”. Let’s explore what made “Threshold” so unpopular and why it remains a black sheep among the show’s fanbase.

Introduction to “Threshold”

Threshold is the 22nd episode of the fifth season of Star Trek: Voyager. The episode introduces a scenario where the characters discover a way to travel at infinite velocity, an event that triggers a series of bizarre and disturbing mutations: Captain Janeway and Tom Paris transform into lizards, and their offspring are even more monstrous lizard babies. The writers’ disavowal of the episode underscores the sheer absurdity and lack of coherence it introduced to the series.

The Abhorrent Plotline

“Threshold” is not just an episode that is considered offensively stupid; it is a case study in how not to write a Star Trek episode. The plot revolves around a transporter malfunction that leads to a bizarre, almost comedic, set of transformations. Janeway and Paris’ mutations are not merely inconvenient but serve as a conduit for a poorly executed character drama. The introduction of lizard babies further compounds the issues, as the audience is left questioning the creative choices that led to such a convoluted storyline.

Writer’s Disavowal and Retcon

The episode’s infamy was so great that even the writers felt compelled to disown it. The disavowal came in the form of dialogue within “Dark Frontier”, another episode in the same season. Here, the crew is able to visit past versions of themselves, which allows them to erase memories of this particular episode, effectively retconning it out of existence. This move was seen by many fans as a tacit acknowledgment of the poor quality of “Threshold.”

Reasons for Backlash

There are several reasons why fans of Voyager found “Threshold” so objectionable:

Agent Redundancy: The episode introduces a character known as Agent Red, played by a well-known Hollywood actress. However, the character feels like a photocopy of an existing one, lacking the depth and nuance that the show’s creators were known for. Plot Holes: The science behind the infinite velocity and the subsequent mutations lacks any semblance of scientific rationale, making the plot feel implausible and jarring for fans who have come to appreciate the show’s generally strong scientific foundation. Character Overreach: The episode tries too hard to explore the personal lives of the characters but fails to do so in a believable or engaging manner. It feels forced and rushed.

Perceptions and Legacy

Despite its disavowal, “Threshold” remains a subject of fascination among fans. Some view it as a cautionary tale about what happens when creative freedom is taken to its extreme. Others see it as a chance to explore the darker sides of humanity, albeit clumsily. Regardless of its legacy, “Threshold” stands as a stark reminder of the importance of coherence and scientific accuracy in a science fiction narrative.

The episode’s enduring notoriety has led to a myriad of fan discussions, analyses, and even re-writes of the episode by fans and writers alike. These alternative interpretations often attempt to salvage the episode’s plotlines while maintaining the integrity of the Voyager universe.

In conclusion, “Threshold” is a case study in how a single episode can completely derail a beloved series. Its abhorrent plot, scientific incoherence, and writer’s disowning have made it the most hated episode of Star Trek: Voyager. While it may not be to everyone’s liking, it remains a significant and fascinating part of the show’s history.

Keywords: Star Trek: Voyager, Threshold Episode, Voyager Hated Episode