Patrick Stewart to reprise Jean-Luc Picard role for a new Star Trek series on CBS All Access

The Hollywood Reporter

It's official: Patrick Stewart will return to the Captain role he made famous on seven seasons of Star Trek: The Next Generation. "It is 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," Stewart tweeted in confirming his return. Stewart also made a surprise appearance on stage today at a Star Trek convention in Las Vegas. According to The Hollywood Reporter, "the new series will not be a reboot of The Next Generation but instead is being described as an exploration of the next chapter of Picard's life. Additional details about the new series, including its title, episode count and premiere date, or being kept under wraps." Star Trek: Discovery co-creator and showrunner Alex Kurtzman, who's been charged with expanding the Star Trek franchise, will lead the creative team. "With overwhelming joy, it’s a privilege to welcome Sir Patrick Stewart back to the Star Trek fold," Kurtzman said in a statement. "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." ALSO: Pulitzer Prize-winning author Michael Chabon and Oscar-winning A Beautiful Mind screenwriter Akiva Goldsman are among the executive producers.