Abrams Won't Direct Next 'Star Trek'

When it comes to "Star Trek," J.J. Abrams can't win. The director's "Star Trek Into Darkness" was criticized first for pandering to Trekkies by mining the original TV series for a story, and then it was criticized by fans for not remaining true to the spirit of the series. It's little wonder then that Abrams will be turning over the next film in the "Star Trek" franchise to a new director.

Abrams recently told Collider that whoever directs the next "Star Trek" film, it won't be him.

"It’s a little bittersweet. But, I will say that I’m going to be producing the movie. Whomever it is that directs the film will be someone we all know is going to keep the cast and crew in good hands. I feel very lucky to have been part of it, and it definitely feels like the right time to let someone come in and do their own thing…. I’m very excited to see what comes next, despite feeling jealous of whomever that person is."

Does that mean that Abrams is going to steer clear of hallowed film ground from now on? Hardly. He'll be at the helm of "Star Wars Episode VII," and if there's any film franchise that is fiercely protected by the opinions of its fans, "Star Wars" is it. Just ask George Lucas.