Created by Gene Roddenberry, Star Trek was a highly influential science fiction television series that aired in the 1960s. The show followed the crew of the starship Enterprise, led by Captain Kirk, as they explored strange new worlds. Though initially struggling in the ratings, the show gained popularity in reruns and sparked a franchise of additional TV series and movies. Star Trek was groundbreaking for its inclusion of diverse characters from different races and cultures working together, which was controversial at the time but helped advance ideals of equality.