Captain Kirk wants back in? OG 'Star Trek' legend reacts to 'Starfleet Academy' backlash
Captain James T. Kirk wants back in. Or at least that's what OG 'Star Trek' actor William Shatner had to say after spin-off 'Star Trek: Starfleet Academy' opened to immense criticism from fans. While critics' reviews were positive, the franchise's faithful did not share the sentiment, and the series continues to face criticism after the first two episodes.
'Starfleet Academy' follows a group of young cadets with high career aspirations, who are fending off dangers against the Federation. There's a good mix of friendship and romance, but the Paramount+ show received mixed reviews. While the show boasts of a healthy 87% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the audience ranked it a meager 43%.
Shatner's take comes on the back of Stephen Miller, the White House Chief of Staff's criticism of the show. "Tragic. But it’s not too late for @paramountplus to save the franchise. Step 1: Reconcile with @WilliamShatner and give him total creative control," Miller tweeted.
Tragic. But it’s not too late for @paramountplus to save the franchise. Step 1: Reconcile with @WilliamShatner and give him total creative control. https://t.co/HRMDcYeBnU
— Stephen Miller (@StephenM) January 16, 2026
To which the Canadian actor replied, I am so on the same page with you @StephenM! The fact that they have not cured Hyperopia by the 32rd Century is an abysmal oversight on the writers! Also, @paramountplus needs to up the budget because I’m sure that a well-oiled organization like Starfleet in the distant future could afford more than one pair of glasses for at least this hyperopic bridge crew. Do they pass the glasses around while piloting the ship? Shame on the line producers! That is what you meant, right? I am ready to assume command of the series! Call me!!
😳 😱
— William Shatner (@WilliamShatner) January 19, 2026
I am so on the same page with you @StephenM!
The fact that they have not cure Hyperopia by the 32rd Century is an abysmal oversight on the writers!😤
Also @paramountplus needs to up the budget because I’m sure that a well oiled organization like Starfleet in the distant… https://t.co/96MtYUGGWf
While there has been no response from the show's think-tank or the streamer, fans seem to agree. That said, there is no way to confirm whether Shatner will be back in the mix. For now, the new show comes in with the objective to win more fandom and build a newer audience. The series comprises 10 episodes, with the finale set for March 12.
The official logline of the show reads, "Star Trek: Starfleet Academy" introduces viewers to a young group of cadets who come together to pursue a common dream of hope and optimism. Under the watchful and demanding eyes of their instructors, they discover what it takes to become Starfleet officers as they navigate blossoming friendships, explosive rivalries, first loves, and a new enemy that threatens both the Academy and the Federation itself."
'Star Trek: Starfleet Academy' drops weekly on Thursdays on Paramount+.
