Patrick Stewart, a seasoned actor known for his role in Star Trek movie, recently disclosed that Paramount has extended an invitation for him to participate in an undisclosed mystery movie project.
Having joined the Star Trek movie franchise in 1987, Stewart made a significant impact as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation. His portrayal of Picard continued in four subsequent Next Generation films and the 2020 Paramount+ series, Star Trek: Picard, receiving acclaim from both critics and fans. Stewart’s depiction of Picard, characterized by a dignified demeanor, offered a notable contrast to William Shatner’s Captain Kirk. In interviews, Stewart has shared the influences behind his performance, citing inspirations from fictional characters like Horatio Hornblower and real-life figures such as his father, Regimental Sergeant Major Alfred Stewart.
While many believed Stewart’s involvement in Picard’s final season signaled his departure from the broader Star Trek universe, the recent invitation from Paramount suggests otherwise.
Patrick Stewart Announces “Experimental” New Star Trek Movie
Stewart has disclosed his involvement in discussions for an upcoming Star Trek project during a recent episode of the Happy Sad Confused podcast. The esteemed actor hinted that this particular film, yet to be named, stands apart from his previous contributions to the Star Trek series.
During the podcast, Stewart shared, “I heard only last night about a script that is being written, but written specifically with the actor, Patrick [Stewart], to play in it. And I’ve been told to expect to receive it within a week or so.” Expressing his enthusiasm, he added, “I’m so excited because it sounds like the kind of project where the experimentation that I want to do will be essential for this kind of material. It’s good at 83 [to receive such an offer].”
Despite the podcast episode debuting in January 2024, the recording took place in November 2023, implying that Stewart should have received the script for the new Star Trek movie by now. However, Paramount has not officially unveiled the movie, and it remains unclear whether Stewart has formally committed to the project.
Details about the movie’s storyline and characters are scarce, but it is presumed that Picard will play a significant role in the narrative.
Paramount Ramps Up its Star Trek Movie
Stewart’s upcoming Star Trek project coincides with Paramount’s substantial investment of time and resources into the franchise. While progress on Star Trek 4 has encountered obstacles, the development of several movies, including the Michelle Yeoh-led Section 31, is actively underway.
Paramount+ currently boasts three Star Trek TV series available for streaming: Star Trek: Discovery, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, and Star Trek: Lower Decks. Although the fourth series, Star Trek: Prodigy, faced cancellation in June 2023, it has since been revived and found a new platform on Netflix.
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