The world of aviation gained an unexpected pioneer from an iconic sci-fi franchise. But here's the twist: it was a near-death experience that sparked this transformation. Susan Oliver, a talented actress known for her role in the original pilot of 'Star Trek,' had a brush with tragedy that changed her life's trajectory.
The Star Trek Pilot That Almost Wasn't:
The iconic series, 'Star Trek,' almost had a very different beginning. The original pilot, 'The Cage,' was rejected by NBC executives in 1965. However, they saw potential and asked Gene Roddenberry to rework the concept, leading to the iconic series we know today. The only character retained from the original pilot was Spock, played by Leonard Nimoy. 'The Cage' eventually found its place as a two-part episode, 'The Menagerie,' airing in November 1966, with the uncut version released years later.
Creepy Aliens and a Captivating Plot:
'The Cage' introduced Captain Christopher Pike, played by Jeffrey Hunter, who encountered the Talosians, a species of large-headed psychic aliens. These aliens imprisoned Pike and subjected him to psychically-induced scenarios. Among the prisoners was Vina, a blonde human woman, who became a focal point for Pike's sympathy. Vina's role was pivotal, appearing in various forms, including a medieval damsel and a green-skinned Orion slave, adding a layer of intrigue to the story.
Susan Oliver's Rise to Fame:
Susan Oliver, the actress behind Vina, had a prolific career. She began her TV journey in 1955, appearing in TV movies and plays on shows like 'Goodyear Playhouse.' Oliver's talent shone in numerous guest roles on popular shows such as 'Father's Knows Best,' 'Wagon Train,' and 'Bonanza.' By the time she joined 'Star Trek,' she had already amassed an impressive list of credits.
A Horrific Plane Incident and a New Passion:
In 1959, Oliver's life took an unexpected turn. She was a passenger on Pan Am Flight 115, which suffered a terrifying incident. The plane dropped from 35,000 feet to 6,000 feet, forcing an emergency landing in Newfoundland. This experience, along with witnessing another crash, left Oliver traumatized. She refused to fly for a while, but her determination to overcome this fear led her to take flying lessons.
From Actress to Pilot:
Oliver's journey to becoming a pilot is a testament to her resilience. She started flying solo and even aimed for a Transatlantic flight. However, another plane crash during her training didn't deter her. She continued her pursuit, eventually making the Transatlantic journey in 1967, becoming the fourth woman to accomplish this feat. Oliver's determination to fly overseas, even planning to land in Moscow, showcases her fearless spirit.
A Life Well-Lived:
Susan Oliver's life was a testament to her versatility. After her Transatlantic flight, she continued acting, directing, and flying. She directed episodes of popular shows like 'MAS*H' and 'Trapper John, M.D.' and continued to act until 1988. Her passion for flying remained, as she practiced in gliders and traveled for acting jobs. Oliver's life was tragically cut short by colon cancer in 1990, but her legacy as an actress and aviation enthusiast lives on.
And here's the part that might spark debate: Was Susan Oliver's journey into aviation a result of her determination to overcome fear, or was it a daring pursuit of a new passion? Could her experience on 'Star Trek' have influenced her desire to explore the unknown, much like her character Vina's journey? Share your thoughts on this fascinating intersection of Hollywood and aviation history!
