Star Trek legend William Shatner was immortalised in a cement handprint ceremony at San Diego Comic-Con. The event was made even more special by the presence of Paul Wesley, the latest actor to take on the iconic role of James T Kirk in Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.
Legion M, a fan-funded production company behind an upcoming documentary about Shatner, who played Captain Kirk in Star Trek: The Original Series, organised the handprint ceremony in the lobby of Theatre Box San Diego, the first in a series of events. The handprint ceremony was promoted by Legion M as a torch-passing “to a new era” between the two actors playing Kirk.
Shatner was introduced by Wesley, who discussed what it was like to take on the role and how he appreciated Shatner’s support.
In his introduction, Wesley had this to say about playing the iconic role:
“Precious few roles in television and film present such a daunting challenge, and one of them is certainly Star Trek’s James T Kirk. This character’s place in entertainment history is indelible. It is a fixed moment in our collective memories.”
“No matter where you go, an image of Captain Kirk brings instant recognition. Why is that? Because for nearly sixty years, that role has been personified by the man equally of renowned stature, Mr William Shatner.”
“Attempting to recreate an iconic screen role is a tall order… That is a tough gig on any day, but for a day on Star Trek when you have been asked to take on the role of Captain Kirk, it is both a challenge and an opportunity of a lifetime. And I can’t imagine taking on such a character with everything that it means to countless fans without having the support of the man who first brought him to life.”
“Thankfully, Bill or Mr Shatner, the original Captain Kirk himself, went out of his way to make a newcomer like me feel welcome. And for that, I will be eternally grateful.”
Watch Paul Wesley’s introduction below.
Some Original Series die hards have panned Wesley’s performance as Kirk on Strange New Worlds. I personally, welcomed this new take on the character as I’m not a big fan of OS Kirk.
Shatner throws shade on new Trek
Later during his Shatner on Shatner panel, 91-year-old actor threw shade on the current crop of new Trek. When a fan asked if there were any new Star Trek series that rivalled the Original Series, he, of course, said, “none of them.”
He went on to say, “I got to know Gene Roddenberry in three years fairly well. He’d be turning in his grave at some of this stuff.”
Shatner is no stranger to controversy when it comes to the Star Trek franchise and the fandom. He’s even been known to have beef with his Original Series co-stars. His recent comments at Comic-Con are a prime example.
Still, this is a strange comment coming from a guy who claims he doesn’t watch Star Trek.
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