Hey Trekkies you are not going to believe this! William Shatner the one and only Captain James T. Kirk might just be heading back to Star Trek ! Yes you read that right. And if that is not enough to get your phasers set to stun he is also hitting the road for a "Wrath of Khan" tour in 2025. Prepare for warp speed hype because things are about to get exciting for Shatner fans.
Could Kirk Be Back? Shatner Talks to Writer About Possible Star Trek Return and Sets Conditions
For years fans have dreamed of seeing William Shatner back in Star Trek somehow especially after Patrick Stewart's triumphant return as Picard. Well it seems like someone at Paramount is listening. Shatner himself revealed at Fan Expo Vancouver that a writer working on a new Star Trek project actually approached him about reprising his iconic role as Captain Kirk!
Now before you get too hyped Shatner is being realistic but also leaving the door wide open. As he said "I have been asked to come back as Kirk so many times. If Kirk is going to come back it has to mean something. It has to be the show." He is not just going to do a quick cameo for the sake of it. If Kirk returns it needs to be impactful and worthy of the character's legacy.
However here is the good part. Shatner was impressed with this writer and is seriously considering the pitch. He even said he was "awaiting a pitch to make it the show" and expected to hear something soon. Could this be the real deal? Could we actually see William Shatner back as Captain Kirk in a new Star Trek adventure? Keep those fingers crossed!
"Wrath of Khan" Tour Incoming: Shatner to Share Trek Tales Across the USA in 2025
Even if the Kirk return is still up in the air there is definitely some Shatner-in-Star Trek action coming in 2025. He is embarking on a US tour that will be a treat for any Star Trek fan. The tour will feature screenings of the classic movie Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan. And who better to introduce and discuss this iconic film than Captain Kirk himself?
After each screening Shatner will take the stage to share behind-the-scenes stories from his incredible career and answer questions from the audience. Imagine hearing firsthand accounts and anecdotes from the man who made Captain Kirk a legend. It's a unique opportunity to connect with Shatner and celebrate the Star Trek universe.
The tour dates announced so far are in summer and November 2025. While the full schedule isn't out yet there are some confirmed cities including Dallas Houston and Phoenix. If you are anywhere near these locations or willing to travel it sounds like an event you will not want to miss. And for the ultimate fan experience VIP tickets will be available which include a photo op with the Captain himself!
Kirk's Comeback - But How? Possible Scenarios for Shatner's Return to Star Trek
If Shatner does return as Kirk how could it even happen? Well Star Trek has always been inventive with storylines especially when it comes to bringing back characters. Time travel alternate universes holograms... the possibilities are endless. One article even suggests that a Kelvin Universe Star Trek 4 movie could be the perfect vehicle for Shatner's return. This timeline already brought back Leonard Nimoy as Spock Prime so why not Shatner as Kirk?
Imagine a story where Kelvin Universe Kirk meets an older version of himself maybe from the prime timeline. It could be a passing of the torch moment a chance for older Kirk to guide his younger self on his journey. It would give Shatner a meaningful role without undoing Kirk's original ending or messing with established canon. Plus it would be an emotional treat for fans to see Shatner back in the Captain's chair one more time even if it is a different timeline's Kirk.
Listing of William Shatner's "Wrath of Khan" Tour Dates (So Far):
While the full tour schedule is still being rolled out, here are the currently announced stops where you can catch William Shatner and a screening of Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan:
- Dallas TX: Majestic Theatre - Wednesday July 30 2025
- Houston TX: (Date not specified but around July 31 2025)
- Phoenix AZ: Orpheum Theatre - Thursday November 13 2025
- More dates to be announced for Summer and November 2025! Check local listings and ticket vendor websites like ATTPAC.org and luckymanonline.com for updates and ticket sales starting March 7 2025.
Get Ready to Engage! Shatner's Trek Future is Looking Bright
Whether it is a brand new Star Trek project a farewell tour or both it is clear William Shatner is not done with Captain Kirk or with entertaining fans. At 93 years young he is still boldly going where no nonagenarian has gone before. Keep an eye out for updates on the potential Kirk return and definitely grab tickets for the "Wrath of Khan" tour when they go on sale. It is going to be a year of celebrating a true Star Trek legend!