Project Hail Mary author Andy Weir has publicly apologised to Star Trek executive producer Alex Kurtzman after making scathing remarks about the franchise's modern spin-offs during a recent podcast appearance. The 53-year-old novelist, best known for The Martian, faced backlash for his blunt criticism.
Open Letter of Apology Shared on Social Media
In an open letter posted on Facebook, Weir addressed Kurtzman directly, expressing regret for his comments made on The Critical Drinker's podcast. "I'm posting to apologise about stuff I said on the Critical Drinker's podcast," Weir wrote. "I feel like my quotes were taken out of context as salacious sound bytes."
The author emphasised that he had intended to be humorous rather than malicious. "I was trying to be funny, but in retrospect it comes off as disrespectful and mean. So I'm sorry for that," he continued. Weir also clarified that his self-deprecating remark about his rejected pitch was meant in jest.
Context Behind the Controversial Comments
During the podcast episode, Weir revealed that he had pitched a Star Trek show to Paramount and participated in Zoom meetings with showrunners, including Kurtzman. While acknowledging Kurtzman as "a really nice guy," Weir bluntly stated that the current Star Trek shows "are s***" and made a dismissive comment about his rejected pitch.
Earlier in the conversation, Weir had subscribed to the theory that all modern science fiction television shows and movies have been heavily influenced by the original Star Trek—except for the current batch of Star Trek series themselves.
Weir's Defence and Self-Reflection
In his apology, Weir attempted to provide context for his remarks, noting that he had praised specific series like Strange New Worlds and Lower Decks during the podcast. He also reflected on his communication style, describing himself as "a blunt person" who had forgotten to watch his words now that he has a film in theatres.
"It's been 10 years since the media cared what I had to say about anything so I kind of forgot to watch my words when I have a film in theaters," Weir explained. "In a couple months I'll be back in my cave writing novels and no one will care again."
Current Success of Project Hail Mary Adaptation
The controversy comes as Weir's latest novel adaptation, Project Hail Mary, has achieved significant commercial success. The film recently overtook Avatar: Fire and Ash to become the highest-grossing Hollywood production of the year.
Starring Ryan Gosling as a middle school science teacher tasked with saving the world through space travel, the movie continues Weir's successful transition from bestselling author to Hollywood influence. The Independent has reached out to Kurtzman's representatives for comment regarding Weir's apology and the ongoing situation.
