"Star Trek: The Next Generation" is seen today as a watershed sci-fi series that changed the shape of television and made the genre respected again. But because it was a reinvention of an iconic show with a passionate fan following, many also viewed the series as a huge risk for the Paramount studio. Looking at the show when it was first in development, however, you'll start to understand why it seemed so risky. Take the initial concept for the character of Counselor Deanna Troi (Marina Sirtis), for example: she was originally created as — believe it or not — a triple-breasted alien officer.

Writer D.C. Fontana, who'd contributed to the original "Star Trek" series, was brought in to further develop the show, and quickly made changes to Troi's character. "I objected to Troi having three br

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