When Paramount debuted Star Trek: The Next Generation in 1987, it included not only new characters but new roles for those who commanded Starfleet ships. Among the most original was the character of Deanna Troi, ship’s “counselor.” Many, including the writers for the show, weren’t quite sure what to make of this new role. It was part psychologist, part diplomat, part lie-detector, part-HR Director, and more than a little part eye-candy (she was originally supposed to have four breasts). This role was so misunderstood, that the character didn’t even appear in some of the first season’s episodes.

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