The Big Goodbye

Next Generation Episode #12

Written by Tracy Torme. Directed by Joseph L Scanlan.

Stardate: 41997.7 First aired: 11 January 1988

The Enterprise is on a diplomatic mission to the Jarada, who are obsessed with protocol and insist on being addressed precisely in their own complex language. Picard finds the preparations stressful, and Troi suggests he relaxes on the holodeck. Picard chooses to recreate the 1930's pulp detective Dixon Hill, and enjoys the experience so much  he invites Beverly, Data and crewman Whalen along. While they are there, the Jarada contact the Enterprise and demand to speak to Picard - but there's a malfunction and Riker can't communicate with the holodeck. Oblivious, Picard and co continue to explore the world of Dixon Hill chasing mobster Felix Leech - until Whalen is shot, and seriously injured. They realise the holodeck is malfunctioning. Geordi and Wesley open the holodeck, just in time to save Picard and Beverly from Leech's boss, Cyrus Redblock. Picard hurries to the bridge and successfully addresses the Jarada.

Guest Cast

Ronda Aldrich as "Madeline", Carolyn Allport as "Jessica Bradley", Gary Armagnal as "McNary", William Boyett as "Dan Bell", Eric Cord as "Thug", Mike Genovese as "Desk Sergeant", Harvey Jason as "Felix Leech", Dick Miller as "Vendor", David Selburg as "Whalen", Lawrence Tierney as "Cyrus Redblock".

Trivia

• This episode won an Emmy for Series Costuming, and Tracy Torme won the prestigious Peabody Award for the script.

• Tormé wanted the holodeck scenes to be in black and white, and this was seriously considered at one point.

• Lawrence Tierney would later play Joe Cabot in Reservoir Dogs.

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