After accepting the job to direct the upcoming Fantastic Four film, director Matt Shakman has left his position as director of the next Star Trek film.
RELATED: J.J. Abrams to Produce Fourth Star Trek Film, Full Cast Returning
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Shakman — who was initially set to direct the upcoming fourth Star Trek film in its rebooted series — has dropped out of the film due to the scheduling issues that will arise now that he’s joined Fantastic Four. The move was confirmed by Paramount Pictures, which said in a statement that, while they regret the decision, they are grateful for his time spent on the property.
“Matt Shakman is an incredibly talented filmmaker, and we regret the timing didn’t align for him to direct our upcoming Star Trek film,” said Paramount Pictures. “We are grateful for his many contributions, are excited about the creative vision of this next chapter, and look forward to bringing it to audiences all around the world.”
Shakman is best known for his directorial work in the television world, having directed the hit Disney+ series WandaVision, as well as various episodes of shows like Game of Thrones, Succession, Mad Men, Six Feet Under, The Boys, House M.D., Fargo, and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.
RELATED: Marvel Studios’ Fantastic Four Director Reportedly Revealed
It’s been quite some time in between Star Trek films, with the last film, Star Trek Beyond, releasing in 2016. Since then, Paramount has been doing market research into potential audience interest for another Star Trek film and determined that fans still cared enough about the cast for another movie to be made with them.