"Star Trek" will boldly go back to the small screen – and then to the streaming screen.
CBS announced on Monday that a new version of the iconic series will launch with a special preview broadcast on CBS and then all subsequent first-run episodes will then be available exclusively in the United States on CBS All Access, the network’s digital subscription video on demand and live streaming service.
The network gave fans a small glimpse of what to expect saying in a release, "The brand-new 'Star Trek' will introduce new characters seeking imaginative new worlds and new civilizations, while exploring the dramatic contemporary themes that have been a signature of the franchise since its inception in 1966."
News of a new "Trek" comes just ahead of its 50th anniversary in 2016.
"There is no better time to give 'Star Trek' fans a new series than on the heels of the original show’s 50th anniversary celebration," said David Stapf, President, CBS Television Studios. "Everyone here has great respect for this storied franchise, and we’re excited to launch its next television chapter in the creative mind and skilled hands of Alex Kurtzman, someone who knows this world and its audience intimately."
Kurtzman, who co-wrote and produced "Star Trek" (2009) with Roberto Orci, and "Star Trek Into Darkness" (2013) with Orci and Damon Lindelof. will serve as executive producer for the new "Star Trek" TV series.
Access' Scott Mantz, who is a die-hard "Trek" fan, celebrated the news, saying,"It's back to where it belongs, on TV. I could not be happier!"
The world of the new series will not be connected to the upcoming film, "Star Trek Beyond," which debuts in theaters in 2016.
