Captain Jean-Luc Picard is returning in a new Star Trek series for CBS All Access.
The Star Trek: The Next Generation character was made famous by Sir Patrick Stewart beginning in 1987 and was a role he played in TV and movies for over a decade. Today, Stewart beamed down to the Las Vegas Star Trek Convention with the big news that he will be coming back.
“I will always be very proud to have been a part of Star Trek: The Next Generation, but when we wrapped that final movie in the spring of 2002, I truly felt my time with Star Trek had run its natural course,” Stewart said. “It is, therefore, an unexpected but delightful surprise to find myself excited and invigorated to be returning to Jean-Luc Picard and to explore new dimensions within him. Seeking out new life for him, when I thought that life was over.”
“During these past years, it has been humbling to hear many stories about how The Next Generation brought people comfort, saw them through difficult periods in their lives or how the example of Jean-Luc inspired so many to follow in his footsteps, pursuing science, exploration and leadership,” Stewart continued. “I feel I’m ready to return to him for the same reason – to research and experience what comforting and reforming light he might shine on these often very dark times. I look forward to working with our brilliant creative team as we endeavor to bring a fresh, unexpected and pertinent story to life once more.”
“With overwhelming joy, it’s a privilege to welcome Sir Patrick Stewart back to the Star Trek fold,” Alex Kurtzman, also co-creator and executive producer of Star Trek: Discovery, said. “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 will be shepherding the series with new Discovery executive producer James Duff. Also producing are former Discovery executive producer Akiva Goldsman, Michael Chabon, and Discovery writer Kirsten Beyer.
Hopefully more news will be made available soon.
