Star Trek Season 3 Episode 12
Star Trek
Season 3

Ep 12. The Empath

  • TV-PG
  • December 6, 1968
  • 50 min
  • 6.5  (3,052)

The Empath is the twelfth episode of the third season of the original Star Trek series, which aired in 1968. The episode tells the story of the Enterprise crew’s encounter with an alien species on the verge of extinction, the Vians, and a mysterious empathic woman named Gem.

The Enterprise is ordered to investigate the planet Minara II, which has been destroyed by a stellar explosion. Upon arrival, the crew discovers that one of the planet’s moons is inhabited by a peaceful and highly advanced race of aliens, the Vians, who have the ability to revive the dead. They explain to the Enterprise crew that they are on a mission to search for an empathic being who can help them save another planet from destruction. They bring onboard Gem, an empathic woman who is apparently the key to their mission.

However, the Vians’ true intentions are soon revealed, as they subject Kirk, Spock, and McCoy to a series of torturous experiments, leaving Gem to watch helplessly. The three crew members are left paralyzed and on the brink of death, and it is up to Gem to save them. Through her empathic abilities, she is able to transfer their injuries onto herself, saving their lives but putting her own at risk.

As the Vians’ experiments become more and more brutal, Gem continues to display remarkable selflessness and courage, risking her own life to save others. She also reveals the secret nature of her powers, which allows her to absorb and deflect the pain and trauma of others. Her selfless acts and willingness to put herself in harm’s way lead the Enterprise crew to view her as more than just a science experiment, but as a true friend and ally.

The episode explores themes of sacrifice, empathy, and the moral implications of scientific experimentation. Gem’s story highlights the importance of putting the needs of others above one’s own, even in the face of great danger. The Vians, on the other hand, serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of science without regard for ethics or morality.

Overall, The Empath is a suspenseful and thought-provoking episode that forces viewers to question the nature of compassion and selflessness. Gem’s character is a testament to the power of empathy and the willingness to put others first, even when the cost is great. The episode remains a favorite among Star Trek fans for its exploration of these complex themes and for its strong portrayal of Gem as a brave and selfless hero.

Description
Watch Star Trek - The Empath (s3 e12) Online - Watch online anytime: Buy, Rent
Star Trek, Season 3 Episode 12, is available to watch and stream on NBC. You can also buy, rent Star Trek on demand at Apple TV Channels, Paramount+, Amazon Prime, Netflix, Amazon, Vudu, Google Play online.
  • First Aired
    December 6, 1968
  • Content Rating
    TV-PG
  • Runtime
    50 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    6.5  (3,052)