Launching TNG in the late 1980s was a HUGE gambit. Gene Roddenberry, never one to shy away from big risks, was fortunately able to create an entirely new ST series, based on the success of the movies. With a fresh take on his timeless vision, Roddenberry placed a new spin on an iconic story that reflected the values and ideals of the times for which it was created, just as he had once done with TOS. Creating a brand new Star Trek cast and beginning a new mission from scratch is something that may get every true fans blood pumping, but its also the sort of thing that makes Producers and Executives rather nervous. These days, its all about mental real estate and the more familiar names, logos and ideas they can cram into a story (or, perhaps more importantly, an ad campaign), the better. This is why Kirk and Spock met up again in 2009, rather than two entirely new characters on a new and unfamiliar adventure. However, by greenlighting the proposed Captain Worf project, producers can have their cake and eat it too (as the saying goes). They get to create new characters and explore the future of TNG/DS9, but they also get the reassurance that comes with an experienced series lead and a character that is a proven ratings success. Basically, the fans will follow Worf. Why else do you think that the last three TNG movies found new (and increasingly contrived) ways to get Worf back onto the bridge of The Enterprise E? Still not convinced? OK. Consider this, then; at the end of DS9s third season, producers felt that they needed a ratings boost. They looked for (and found) one in Commander Worf, who served as the chain reaction that set up many a great Klingon-centric episode of the show. Essentially, Worf puts asses in seats.