Yelchin Is In As Chekov, Just No Fanfare

By MICHAEL HINMAN Aug-30-2007

Apparently only Spock deserves to get all the press attention that comes with San Diego's Comic-Con as Chekov was cast, and barely anyone noticed.

Russian-born actor Anton Yelchin -- who most recently starred in the Showtime series "Huff" -- confirmed he will indeed take on the role of the Pavel Chekov in the new Star Trek movie being directed by J.J. Abrams. He is the second person cast for the film in a higher-profile role after "Heroes" Zachary Quinto, who will play Spock.

"Really, there's not much to say actually," Yelchin told Collider.com. "I met with J.J. and I read on tape and I'm going to work on it I guess in October. It's sort of like ... I know very little about the project."

Such a ringing endorsement, fans can tell he's excited, we guess.

Unlike Walter Koenig, who originated the role in the 1960s, the 18-year-old Yelchin was born in Russia, but lived in the United States most of his life, and that may have played a small role in his casting.

"I don't know what it is," he said. "I think he's the youngest one out of all the whole crew. They're all in their 20s or 30s or whatever, and he's young. I guess, too, I can do a Russian, familiar with Russian people."

Despite what seemed to be a question that caught him off guard, Yelchin did say he was anxious to get started.

"I'm really looking forward to working on it. J.J. is such a great person to meet and spend some time with and talk to. I really look forward to it."

Abrams also seems to be close to finding his Uhura, according to TrekMovie. The site claims that Zoë Saldana has been offered the role originally played by Nichelle Nichols, but a deal hasn't been finalized as producers want to make sure she can do the film as well as James Cameron's upcoming "Avatar," which she's also been cast.

Saldana has appeared in another Abrams project, the short-lived television series "Six Degrees," and the 2002 film "Drumline."

Of course, the casting of Uhura hasn't been confirmed by Paramount, so it should be treated as any rumor would.

About the Author: Michael Hinman is the founder and site coordinator for Airlock Alpha and the entire BlipNetwork. He owns Quantum Global Media Inc., the parent corporation of the BlipNetwork. He's a print journalist by day, and lives in Tampa, Fla.
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