Patrick Stewart returns as Jean-Luc Picard in new Star Trek project for CBS All Access

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From Variety:

Sir Patrick Stewart will reprise the role of Capt. Jean-Luc Picard in a brand new “Star Trek” series on CBS All Access, Variety has learned.

The exact plot details are being kept mostly under wraps, though the series is said to tell the story of the next chapter of Picard’s life. That indicates that it will take place after the events of “Star Trek: The Next Generation” rather than being a prequel or reboot.

...

“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,” he 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.”

Source: Variety

Commentary:  I had heard this as a rumor a few weeks ago, but I pretty much dismissed it.   I will admit, I was still holding on to the hope that Patrick Stewart would be showing up in THE ORVILLE.  Even with him returning to STAR TREK, I still really want that to happen... 

Patrick Stewart still has a lot in the tank (I really miss him on BLUNT TALK), but it just seemed like a chapter of his life that was long closed.  My wife is just about the world's biggest Patrick Stewart fan, so she as particularly excited about this news.  Though I don't think even this would get us to buy CBS ALL ACCESS.  But it is still great news for STAR TREK fans!