JJ Abrams, who is slated to be the director of the next Star Trek movie in the franchise, is reportedly eyeing Matt Damon as. the. ve-ry. essence. of Kirk.

He’s so interested that he’s apparently already sought support from the original Kirk, WILLIAM SHATNER. “Shatner gave his blessing,” my source says. “J.J. got his approval.” Damon first popped up in Trekkie circles as soon as the Abrams-’Star Trek’ deal was announced. Rumor had it that the new movie would center on Kirk and Spock’s early days at a space academy. “J.J. wants Damon as Capt. Kirk,” my source reports. “He really loves the idea.”

Fascinating.