Star Trek fans received some major news on Saturday: The OG Captain Jean-Luc Picard is back.
Shortly after CBS announced the development of new Star Trek series, whispers began circulating that Patrick Stewart would reprise the iconic role of Captain Picard. And, thankfully for Trekkies, those rumors turned out to be true.
Stewart confirmed his return to the beloved franchise during a surprise appearance at the Star Trek Convention in Las Vegas. The 78-year-old actor spoke about his appreciation for the show, as well as the support he’s received from fans throughout the years.
“I have never, ever grown tired of hearing from people […] who say to me, ‘Your show changed my life. Without Star Trek: The Next Generation, I might not be here,” he told an audience. “And that lies at the very center of what I have to tell you now: Jean-Luc Picard is back.”
According to Deadline, the untitled series will not be a Next Generation reboot; rather, it will follow Captain Picard in the next chapter of his life. The show will air on CBS’ streaming service All Access and will be helmed by Alex Kurtzman, the executive producer/co-creator of Star Trek: Discovery.
“With overwhelming joy, it’s a privilege to welcome Sir Patrick Stewart back to the Star Trek fold,” Kurtzman told Deadline. “For over 20 years, fans have hoped for the return of Captain Jean-Luc Picard and that day is finally here. We can’t wait to forge new ground, surprise people, and honor generations both new and old.”
Kurtzman's creative team includes Discovery producer James Duff, former Discovery executive producer Akiva Goldsman, Discovery writer Kirsten Beyer, and Short Treks writer Michael Chabon.
Stay tuned as more information about the Stewart-starring series becomes available.
