Star Trek star, Walter Koenig, is best known for playing Pavel Chekov in the original Trek series. He talks about his career and his Trek experience in his new book, Beaming Up and Getting Off: Life Before and Beyond Star Trek.
Recently, Walter spoke with Michael Zavala of MZNOW to promote his book and was asked about the possibility of returning to the world of Star Trek.
If [Alex] Kurtzman came to you and said, “Hey, we want you to play Chekov again for one of these new CBS All-Access shows.” Would you consider it or do you think you’re done with it?
Well, first of all, I’m 83 years old. You know, I don’t have any hair anymore on my head. So, it wouldn’t be a practical invitation. However, I’m an actor. An actor is an actor like a rose is a rose is a rose. You give me a challenge as an actor to play a role. And, if I find it interesting I would leap at the opportunity. Not to play Chekov. I don’t want to do that. I wanna play the great-grandson or, you know, the great-grandson, five times removed. I’m up for a remake of Mork and Mindy or I Love Lucy.
Are you able to go back now and watch the original Star Trek and enjoy it for what it is or is that difficult to do?
No, I don’t. I generally don’t watch the original Star Trek. I have no alienated feelings towards it. I’m eternally grateful for it. But I don’t want to wallow in the past. You know, if you can’t look to the future, then you might as well just start shoveling dirt for the ultimate moment. You gotta keep moving.
You can purchase Walter Koenig’s new book, Beaming Up and Getting Off: Life Before and Beyond Star Trek at any major book retailers.
Listen to the entire interview here: