'Star Trek' Will Introduce New Characters In A New Series, But In Which Universe?

David Stapf, president of CBS TV studios, admits that the Star Trek anniversary is the best time to present a new series to fans and reveals that Alex Kurtzman, who served as co-writer and producer of both Star Trek (2009) and Star Trek Into Darkness (2013), will serve as executive producer on the series.

CBS reports that Star Trek's popularity has never been better with episodes from the original series and the five spin-off series airing everyday, worldwide. It is hoped that the new Star Trek series, which is actually set to debut in January 2017, will attempt to build on the established fanbase with CBS releasing promotional teasers and news throughout the Star Trek 50th anniversary celebrations to build up anticipation of the new Star Trek installment.

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"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."

Alternately, a statement issued by Stapf to BBC News seems to suggest just the opposite, with promises of respect and love for the Star Trek universe.

"Everyone here has great respect for this 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."

It also has not been mentioned in which generation the new Star Trek series will take place and, if this is a spin-off of the new films with the new crew exploring the galaxy of the original series, Star Trek audiences will again be faced with the technological limitations of that generation. Grappling hooks? Really?

Another issue comes with the promise of new civilizations. Does this mean fans will miss out on their favorite aliens? Will Andorians, Tellarites, Bajorans, Klingons be nowhere to be seen?

There is much to discover about this new Star Trek series, making exploring the forthcoming details as exciting for Star Trek fans as exploring the galaxy will hopefully be for our new Star Trek crew.

[Image via CBS/Star Trek]