
Paul WesleyIt was better to be a legend than impersonate it.
The Vampire Diaries alum stars as Captain Kirk on Paramount+’s Star Trek: Strange New WorldsThe first season of ‘, wrapped on July 7th. In taking the role, he was well aware putting on Kirk’s iconic gold uniform would draw comparisons to William Shatner, who originated the role of Kirk in the 1960s Star Trek series.
Wesley stated, “It would be the most insulting to try and imitate William Shatner’s creations or what people fall in love with.” VarietyJuly 7. July 7. This is almost an insult of character.
Shatner debuted as Kirk in 1965 and also played the indelible Captain in in the first seven Star Trek movies.
Although Wesley insisted that he would not copy Shatner’s performances, Wesley clearly researched what Shatner was doing to be so highly praised.