We first heard rumours a couple of months ago that there were multiple new Star Trek TV shows in development at CBS including one that would potentially bring back Patrick Stewart as Captain Jean-Luc Picard from Star Trek: The Next Generation. At the time, it was unclear just how far along the negotiations were and, let’s be honest, it seemed like it might actually be too good to be true. But this weekend, Stewart made a surprise appearance at the Official Star Trek Convention in Las Vegas where he confirmed that he had signed on for the show and that it is expected to debut in fall 2019. Here is Stewart’s full statement as it appeared on Instagram:

I will always be very proud to have been a part of Star Trek: The Next Generation, but when we wrapped that final movie in the spring of 2002, I truly felt my time with Star Trek had run its natural course. It is, therefore, an unexpected but delightful surprise to find myself excited and invigorated to be returning to Jean-Luc Picard and to explore new dimensions within him. Seeking out new life for him, when I thought that life was over. During these past years, it has been humbling to hear stories about how The Next Generation brought people comfort, saw them through difficult periods in their lives or how the example of Jean-Luc inspired so many to follow in his footsteps, pursuing science, exploration and leadership. I feel I'm ready to return to him for the same reason – to research and experience what comforting and reforming light he might shine on these often very dark times. I look forward to working with our brilliant creative team as we endeavor to bring a fresh, unexpected and pertinent story to life once more. #StarTrek @cbsallaccess Photo: @shervinfoto

A post shared by Patrick Stewart (@sirpatstew) on Aug 4, 2018 at 1:28pm PDT

The show’s creative team includes Alex Kurtzman (who is also now the showrunner for Star Trek Discovery), James Duff (The Closer, Major Crimes), Akiva Goldsman (Fringe, The Dark Tower), Michael Chabon (John Carter, Wonder Boys) and Kirsten Beyer (Discovery). Patrick Stewart is also listed as executive producer. Not much is else is known about the show’s premise but it will join Star Trek Discovery and another new show, Short Treks, on CBS All Access. Are you stoked for the return of Jean-Luc Picard?