Now that Paramount has officially confirmed the fact Star Trek's next incarnation will indeed feature a ship sitting in the 22nd Century, I'd like to take a few minutes to discuss something we all love and dread at the same time. They are what many internet columnists use to judge the future of the entertainment industry...rumors.

In the early 1990's, Star Trek fans were shocked to see Captain Picard turned into a Borg leader. At that time, no one had a clue and methods of egetting that information out did not exist. However, in the later part of the 20th century, the Internet allowed rumors to spread like wildfire. This blessing did allow fans to get a "heads up" as to what was coming next, while also giving writers the chance to judge reaction before the episode was finalized.

On the downside, many rumors were simply not true. They're basis was a fan interested in becoming famous in the world of cyber-space. Beyond Ron D. Moore, very few rumors could be trusted. This situation seems to have changed dramatically with the information presented with Series V. The realibility of rumors first presented in November now seem to be having some very solid fact. Yet, no more than three years ago, no one would have considered a rumor in November about something in August could be correct.

Despite the debate about the minor details, rumors showed Series V would probably not use the "Star Trek" title and would be a pre-TOS adventure. Now, in May of 2001, we find this too be true. This relevation must prompt every Internet user to take another look at how he or she views rumors online. Although I'm not saying they still shouldn't be looked at with a grain of salt, the amount of salt might need to be toned down a bit.

So, as rumors continue to pour out about the first adventures of a ship named Enterprise, I sincerely hope people will at least "consider" the remote possibility these leaks might be true. Failing to do so, and simply saying "That couldn't possibly have been leaked!", similiar to what was said about the Enterprise casting sheet, may result in these "sources" getting tired of being called liars and terminating their activities. I'm not sure that is something fans really desire. Although having the Picard assimiliation was a shocker like nothing we've ever seen, I don't think fans are interested in returning to the "good old days" when we didn't know anything until after the fact. This change alone resulted in the lead actor for Series V...who knows what else might be effected?

As always, I love to hear feedback. Please feel free to e-mail me at shedian@treknation.com. Be sure to include the column you are referring and I will try to get bakc to you as soon as I can.

Until next time...

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