‘Project Hail Mary’ author Andy Weir says Paramount rejected his Star Trek pitch, calls modern shows ‘sh**’

Andy Weir, the bestselling author of Project Hail Mary, has publicly slammed Paramount+’s recent Star Trek efforts, describing them bluntly as “sh**” and revealing that a series he pitched to the studio was rejected. Speaking on the Critical Drinker podcast, Weir explained his frustration with the direction of modern Trek shows and contrasted them with the original series and The Next Generation, which he grew up watching.

Weir described his attempt to bring a new vision to the franchise, including discussions with executive producer Alex Kurtzman, who oversees Paramount’s Trek productions. “I like Strange New Worlds. I thought Enterprise was kind of weird. Lower Decks was entertaining. All the others, they can go,” Weir said. He expressed disappointment that his concept was not accepted, adding, “He is a nice guy. But at the same time, those shows are sh**. They didn’t accept my pitch so, you know, f*** ’em.”

The author’s comments coincided with ongoing debate over Paramount+’s Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, which was recently confirmed to be ending after its second season. The news has sparked conversation about the direction of the franchise and the future of Kurtzman’s leadership, as his deal with CBS Studios expires at the end of 2026.

In response to criticism, Kurtzman and co-executive producers Noga Landau and Gaia Violo released a statement celebrating Star Trek’s legacy of optimism and exploration, emphasising the franchise’s commitment to diversity, scientific inquiry, and the balance between hope and the dangers of human nature.