William Shatner Teases ‘Star Trek’ Return Three Decades After ‘Generations’

he could be making the most incredible comeback at the age of 93.

The iconic star seems undeterred by age, shrugging off any notion that his Final Frontier days are behind him by doing things like going into space for real. He seems set on following up his recent extensive documentary by reprising his role of Captain Kirk. Shatner remains keenly aware that the franchise has evolved in significant ways, and new comments made by the actor during an appearance at Fan Expo Vancouver on Friday, February 21, called Execute! A Panel with William Shatner, suggests he is very close to making a legendary comeback. As per The Direct:

“I have been asked to come back as Kirk so many times. If Kirk is going to come back, it has to mean something. It has to be the show. But I was so impressed by this writer, so I said let’s talk after I’m done in Vancouver. So I’m awaiting a pitch to make it the show, it should come on Monday or Tuesday.”

When the original Star Trek premiered in 1966, Shatner’s portrayal of the brash Captain Kirk captured the imagination of television audiences. As one of the longest-running franchises in history, there have been many ups and downs over the years, but it is hard to imagine that the return of Kirk in a new project would certainly cause a spike in interest from long-term fans.

‘Star Trek’ is Currently High on Paramount’s Agenda

With the Star Trek franchise currently enjoying a renaissance through streaming series like Discovery, Picard, and Strange New Worlds, many fans would get the ultimate nostalgic kick to see Shatner back in the fold one more time. Obviously, this is just the latest in a long line of potential cameo appearances by Shatner in the years since he last had a major role in Star Trek canon, and plans have never made it to fruition.

Back in November, fans were given unexpected closure for Kirk and Mr. Spock (Leonard Nimoy) as a new short film celebrated the 30th anniversary of Star Trek Generations. During the 10-minute movie, titled 765874 – Unification, Kirk traverses the Nexus and, through the wonders of CGI, was able to have a reunion with Spock.

Naturally, a canon return to the franchise would need to take place in another timeline to that of the original Star Trek storyline, or take place before Generations, which saw Kirk perish. Star Trek has never backed away from using common science fiction tropes, such as time travel being an important part of the Patrick Stewart series Picard. However they chose to do it, Kirk’s return in some form would definitely be something to stir up attention amongst fans, and perhaps move attention away from that endless wait for the Kelvin timeline to get its act together for a fourth movie.

Source: The Direct