Julie Newmar's Star Trek Episode Originally Had A Much Darker, More Complex Ending

In 1967, Julie Newmar, known for her portrayal of Catwoman in Batman, joined the second season of the original Star Trek series. Her character, Eleen, survived the entire episode, Friday's Child, but the ending had a darker twist. If writer D.C. Fontana had her way, the episode would have ended tragically with Eleen sacrificing her newborn son to escape her captors, as Capellan culture valued male heirs more than women. Fontana aimed to depict a society that didn't particularly respect women, except as broodmares.

However, when she presented her script, Fontana clashed with Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry, who held a traditional view of motherhood. Roddenberry believed in a strong, loving mother, which didn't align with Fontana's vision. Despite Fontana's objections, Roddenberry changed the ending, leaving her unhappy with the final result. Fontana expressed her views on mothers and children, stating that not all women are or love their children, a sentiment that conflicted with Roddenberry's expectations.