Meaning: The quote you provided is from Mark Goddard, an American actor who is best known for his role as Major Don West in the television series "Lost in Space." In this quote, Goddard reflects on his experience as an actor during a time when performers had less control over their careers and the characters they portrayed.

During the era when Goddard was active in the entertainment industry, actors often had limited influence over the direction of their characters or the creative decisions made by the production team. This lack of control could extend to various aspects of their work, including the development of relationships between characters, as Goddard alludes to in his statement about a supposed relationship with Judy that never materialized.

In the context of television series, especially those produced several decades ago, the actors were typically hired to play specific roles and were expected to adhere to the scripts and storylines determined by the show's creators and producers. This meant that actors like Goddard had to navigate their characters' journeys within the confines of the predetermined plot and character dynamics.

Goddard's reference to not having a relationship with Judy likely pertains to the dynamics between his character, Major Don West, and another character named Judy in "Lost in Space." The lack of control he mentions suggests that he may have had ideas or hopes for the development of his character's storyline, including a romantic relationship with Judy, but was ultimately unable to influence or realize those aspirations due to the limitations placed on actors during that time.

It's important to note that the quote also reflects the evolution of the entertainment industry and the changing dynamics within it. Today, many actors have more agency and input in shaping the characters they portray and the storylines in which they are involved. With the rise of serialized storytelling and complex character arcs in contemporary television, actors often have the opportunity to collaborate with writers and producers to contribute to the development of their characters and relationships within the narrative.

Additionally, the quote speaks to the shifting power dynamics in the entertainment industry, with actors gaining more influence over their careers and the creative direction of the projects in which they are involved. This empowerment has been facilitated by factors such as the growth of social media, which has allowed actors to engage directly with fans and express their thoughts on their roles, as well as the increased demand for diverse and authentic storytelling, which has led to more inclusive and collaborative processes in television and film production.

In conclusion, Mark Goddard's quote sheds light on the historical context of the entertainment industry and the limited control that actors often had over their roles and storylines in the past. It serves as a reminder of the changing landscape of television and film, where actors now have greater opportunities to contribute to the development of their characters and relationships within the narratives in which they participate. This transformation signifies a significant shift in the dynamics of the industry, offering actors more agency and creative input in the portrayal of their characters on screen.