Lost In Space debuted fifty years ago today on September 15, 1965. I was not around then, having been born a few years after the show ended. But, as a child, I recall watching Lost In Space in syndication, along with many other classic tv shows (although they weren’t old enough to be considered “classic” by then). Already having quite a vivid imagination, Lost In Space was tailor made for kids like me. As with all my favorite tv shows, I would make up my own adventures (or mis-adventures) for Dr. Smith, Will, the Robot, and the Jupiter 2 crew.
Eventually, Lost in Space stopped showing in syndication in our area and I forgot much of it, except Tybo the talking carrot. Who could forget that? With shows like Lost In Space (and That Other Show) fueling my curiosity, I eventually pursued a career in the fields of aerospace and computer technology.
Fast forward several decades. I found myself laid off from my job and with plenty of time on my hands. My husband had just purchased the season 1 dvd set of Lost In Space. I remembered the show fondly, so of course, I decided to become reacquainted with it. In short order, I fell madly in love with it all again and we collected all the dvds. But, I wanted more. So, I began searching the internet for Lost In Space groups and fan fiction.
I was happy to see that the love for Lost In Space was alive and well in Yahoo Groups, websites, Facebook groups, and on Twitter. There were also some great fan fiction stories that continued the adventures of the Robinsons, Major West, and their reluctant stowaway, Dr. Zachary Smith. And being an unabashed fan of Dr. Smith, I thoroughly enjoyed stories where he was the focus. One author, in particular, wrote Smith the way I would write him (if I had written any stories then), so I set out to make contact. It took some research and a few dead ends, but eventually I found the author and made contact. We became fast friends, having plenty in common. I now consider her one of my best and closest friends. I have also met several other great friends online who love the show.
Even within the fandom, there are folks who love to hate Smith or certain episodes. While I definitely have my favorites, I love the show in all its early dramatic black and white glory and even the ridiculousness of the later color seasons. The Great Vegetable Rebellion? It’s ridiculous… and I LOVE IT!
There isn’t another show quite like it and there never will be again. It’s a product of the times. Lost In Space has entertained me, sparked my imagination, taught me lessons about love and redemption, and brought me great friends. Not to mention teaching me a vast vocabulary and an array of alliteratives. Not bad for just a tv show.
You can purchase the Lost In Space 50th Anniversary Blu-ray collection here. I’ll be doing an unboxing and review once I get my copy!