The continued popularity of the "Star Trek" TV series, even decades after it debuted on network television in 1966, prompted Paramount Pictures and show creator Gene Roddenberry to continue the franchise. As of 2016, five TV series have followed including The Animated Series (1973-1974); "Star Trek: The Next Generation" (1987-1994); Deep Space Nine (1993-1999); Voyager (1995-2001); and Enterprise (2001-2005). Talk of a new series to debut in 2017 delights devoted fans. In addition to the television offerings, as of 2016, twelve feature-length films have kept the franchise before the movie-going public. Trekkies, the faithful fans of all things Star Trek, inspired manufacturers to offer action figures, toys, and a variety of consumer products featuring characters of the very popular science fiction narrative.