Star Trek: A look at some of the iconic lines by Captain Kirk in The Original Series

Captain Kirk on Star Trek: The Original Series gave us some of the most legendary lines even today! We were introduced to the iconic character for the very first time around almost 60 years ago, in the very first episode The Man Trap that aired in 1966. James T. Kirk, who was the commander of the esteemed USS Enterprise in Star Trek: The Original Series, provided Trekkies with some of their most memorable moments.

Star Trek: The Original Series, produced by Gene Roddenberry and broadcast between 1966 and 1969, was cancelled based on low ratings. Nevertheless, the series later acquired a cult following, with the hardcore followers referred to as trekkies. Subsequently, the Star Trek universe television program was diversified with comics, an animated television program, films, and spin-off television shows. William Shatner, who acted as Captain Kirk in the show, became an international icon.

Captain Kirk, the youngest captain in Starfleet history, was known for his charismatic personality, decisive leadership, and tactical thinking. His wisdom often appeared through his conversation with his crew members during challenging times.

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A look at some of Captain Kirk's iconic lines in Star Trek: The Original Series

1. Balance Of Terror: Season 1, Episode 14

"Well, here's one thing you can be sure of, Mister. Leave any bigotry in your quarters, there's no room for it on the bridge."

Lieutenant Stiles, the navigator, is wary of Romulans, a militaristic extraterrestrial species. He blames them for the death of his ancestors during the Earth-Romulan War, which happened a century ago. Since the Romulans are descendants of Vulcans, the Lieutenant is mistrustful of Spock and treats him with disdain.

Captain Kirk is taken aback by Stiles' rude attitude and calls him out on his prejudice. He makes it clear that bigotry will not be tolerated on the Enterprise.

2. Charlie X: Season 1, Episode 2

"There are a million things in this universe you can have and a million things you can't have. It's no fun facing that, but that's the way things are.... Hang on tight and survive. Everybody does."

Charlie Evans, a young man who comes aboard the USS Enterprise, struggles to adjust to life among others. He is a survivor of a shipwreck on the planet Thasus, where the Thasians altered him so he could survive.

However, these modifications grant him extraordinary abilities, making the crew uneasy. Noticing Charlie’s struggles, Kirk advises him that the key to survival is to maintain patience and be resilient.

3. Metamorphosis: Season 2, Episode 9

"Love sometimes expresses itself in sacrifice"

Zefram Cochrane, the creator of the warp drive system, is stranded on a planet with an entity he refers to as "The Companion." The Companion draws Captain Kirk's ship to the planetoid, which has an Earth-like atmosphere. However, the ship is made inoperable there, making things difficult.

Upon learning about Cochrane and The Companion, Kirk realizes the entity does not want to let Cochrane leave. It wishes for the crew to stay so Cochrane can have companionship with his own kind. When The Companion claims it is acting out of love, Kirk explains that true love sometimes means making sacrifices.

4. Plato’s Stepchildren: Season 3, Episode 10

"Where I come from, size, shape, or color makes no difference, and nobody has the power."

In this episode, Kirk’s crew is lured by the Platonians, who require medical assistance. The Platonians are arrogant beings with telekinetic powers. Among them, Alexander, a short Platonian, is frequently belittled for his appearance and lack of psychokinetic abilities.

Feeling dejected, he asks Captain Kirk about his world. Kirk speaks of a utopian society where racism has no place and diversity is embraced.

5. A Taste Of Armageddon, Season 1, Episode 23

"We're human beings with the blood of a million savage years on our hands, but we can stop it! We can admit that we’re killers, but we're not going to kill today. That's all it takes knowing that we're not going to kill today."

In this episode, Captain Kirk and his crew travel to Eminiar VII for diplomatic relations. There they discover that the planet has been at war with its neighbor, Vendikar. However, instead of traditional warfare, both sides use simulated attacks, and real citizens are then executed as casualties.

Reflecting on humanity’s violent history, Kirk declares that while humans were once brutal, they have the power to change. His speech emphasizes the choice to reject violence, ultimately leading to a ceasefire and peace negotiations.

Captain Kirk went on to deliver many iconic lines throughout the Star Trek universe—lines that continue to resonate with modern society. His ideals and charm make him a beloved character on screen.

READ MORE: Star Trek: Interesting facts about the iconic USS Enterprise

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