Shatner: I won't be in Star Trek prequel

Actor William Shatner has criticised director JJ Abrams and the producers of the new 'Star Trek' prequel - for not finding him a meaty role in the film.

Shatner, who played Captain James Kirk in the original 'Star Trek' TV series and movies, has denied reports he is set for a cameo in the new film.

He insists he wouldn't take such a role even if it was offered to him, stating: "I don't do cameos... I can't imagine what I would do as a cameo."

But he is upset that he's not among the cast of the new project: "Here's a show with my identity in it and not to be part of it is disappointing... It is a strange construction."

Shatner's 'Star Trek' sidekick and pal Leonard Nimoy will be the only original cast member on board for the prequel.