Family (Star Trek: The Next Generation)

"Family" is the second episode of the fourth season of the American science fiction television series Star Trek: The Next Generation, and the 76th episode overall. It was originally released on October 1, 1990, in broadcast syndication. It was written by Ronald D. Moore, from an idea by Michael Piller. It featured additional work taken from a spec script by Susanne Lambdin. "Family" was directed by Les Landau.

Set in the 24th century, the series follows the adventures of the Starfleet crew of the Federation starship Enterprise-D. In this episode, the Enterprise is docked at Earth following the events of "The Best of Both Worlds". Captain Jean-Luc Picard (Patrick Stewart) visits his brother's family in France, where he begins to come to terms with his treatment by the Borg. Wesley Crusher (Wil Wheaton) views a holographic recording made by his deceased father, Jack (Doug Wert). Meanwhile, Lt. Worf's (Michael Dorn) adoptive parents Sergey (Theodore Bikel) and Helena Rozhenko (Georgia Brown) come on board the Enterprise to comfort him following his discommendation.

Initially, executive producer Rick Berman wanted a science-based subplot included, but Piller convinced him otherwise. The premise was hated by series creator Gene Roddenberry, but Moore's script went into production nonetheless. "Family" had an extended guest cast, some of whom returned later in the series. The episode received a Nielsen rating of 9.6 percent, the lowest of the season. However, it has been referred to by critics as one of the best episodes of the series. The guest cast was praised, as was the Picard-centric plot with Stewart's performance in the scene where he confesses his feelings about the Borg held up as a highlight.