Fictional characters often are named and inspired by real people, for example Sonequa Martin-Green's character Michael Burnham is named after her character's biological father "Mike" Burnham. Where did the Star Trek creators get the name and inspiration for Geordi's character?
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3As a way to improve the question slightly, and address a concern that was raised in comments below, you could easily remove the assumption of "who" from this question. Make it "What inspired the character Geordi La Forge?" and possibly change the body of the question to something like "where did the Star Trek creators get the initial idea and inspiration for Geordi's character?"– Ben BardenCommented Oct 10, 2019 at 17:46
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15Sulu was inspired by Gene Rodenberry's desire for diversity on the show, and his idea of pan-asian peace. He was named after the Sulu Sea, because it "touched all shores". It's not always a who. "who inspired this" does make unnecessary assumptions. "Where did they come up with the idea" doesn't.– Ben BardenCommented Oct 10, 2019 at 17:59
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1To clarify, I don't want to downvote this. I've upvoted both answer and question, and I think the answer is awesome. I just think that the question could still be improved further.– Ben BardenCommented Oct 10, 2019 at 18:01
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3I would like the question edited to add a source for the example about the name Michael Burnham. Also: For the record, asking and answering one's own questions is 100% legit on SFF.SE. In the immortal words of Scoop Nisker "If you don't like the news, go out and make some of your own."– LexibleCommented Oct 11, 2019 at 17:47
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1Add the link, I'm OK. Try not to make it unnecessarily complicated - it's a really simple question.– Vogon PoetCommented Oct 11, 2019 at 17:58
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1 Answer
A long-time Star Trek fan and quadriplegic named George La Forge had been following the original series and was an avid fan. His unfortunate passing in 1975 inspired creator Gene Roddenberry to focus on creating a new character with disabilities. Screenwriter David Gerrold suggested the name Geordi LaForge in respect of their fan. Mr. Roddenberry agreed the name would be a fitting tribute to Mr. La Forge's dedication to the franchise.
answered Oct 9, 2019 at 23:56
