It's probably the first show based on an original that people don't know whether to call it a "spinoff" or not. But one thing they may be able to tell for sure -- it could include William Shatner.

As ABC prepares to end "The Practice," it already is beginning work on a somewhat spinoff style show starring James Spader, who is playing a high-powered attorney in "The Practice" this season. Shatner, best known for his work as Capt. James T. Kirk in "Star Trek" has an arc of his own in the series as head of a law firm trying to recruit Spader's character, which is no secret -- it will be successful.

But now the Hollywood Reporter is stating that Shatner could very well have a co-starring role in the new series.

Shatner's character of Denny Crane will be maintained, as well as Spader's character of Alan Shore, according to reports. Shatner will appear in several more episodes through the end of the season.

Joining Shatner and Spader are Lake Bell and Fay Masterson. Also, current "Practice" regular Rhona Mitra also is in talks to join the new show.

Shatner hasn't had a regular television role since "Tek War" on the USA Network in the early 1990s. However, he has reinvented himself as being the voice of Priceline.com, as well as playing the Big Giant Head on "3rd Rock from the Sun" in the late 1990s.

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