Sat Aug 02 04:40:00 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
**Paul Wesley Forges His Own Path as Kirk in ‘Strange New Worlds’**
**NEW YORK, NY – July 29, 2025** – Actor Paul Wesley, currently portraying a young James T. Kirk in Paramount+’s “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds,” revealed that he deliberately chose to craft his own interpretation of the iconic character rather than mimic William Shatner’s renowned performance.
Speaking in a recent interview, Wesley explained his approach to the role: “I watched, I rewatched every episode of T.O.S. prior to getting onset. I made a conscious decision. I thought about should I imitate or try to emulate William Shatner in any way. I thought, god, he did such an amazing job. He was so iconic, why not do my own spin?”
Wesley’s version of Kirk depicts the character before he takes command of the USS Enterprise, offering a glimpse into his formative years. “This is pre-captain so maybe he is still sort of figuring it out,” Wesley noted, suggesting a more nuanced and evolving portrayal.
Crucially, Wesley received the blessing of William Shatner himself. “Take care of my crew and my ship,” Shatner tweeted to Wesley, a moment the actor described as “beautiful.”
Wesley also expressed his enthusiasm for “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds,” highlighting its optimistic themes and escapist qualities. “What I love about this show, first of all, it is incredibly optimistic and it is sort of an escapist playground,” he stated. “We get to watch this imaginative world filled with hope and positivity, inclusivity.”
He also praised the show’s unique structure, noting that each episode presents fresh acting challenges. “Every episode is its own movie,” Wesley said. “You get to play a different character in a weird way or experience a different world in every episode. So as an actor it is thrilling.”
Season three of “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds” is currently streaming on Paramount+.
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