Simon Pegg to play Scotty in 'Star Trek'

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 12 (UPI) -- British actor Simon Pegg has signed on to play Scotty in the new "Star Trek" movie, Variety.com reported Friday.

Pegg is best-known for his starring roles in the U.K. comedies "Hot Fuzz" and "Shaun of the Dead."

The new "Star Trek" adventure will be directed by J.J. Abrams and star Eric Bana, Anton Yelchin, Zachary Quinto, Zoe Saldana and Leonard Nimoy.

The film will chronicle the early days of James T. Kirk and his fellow USS Enterprise crew members during their time at Starfleet Academy, the trade paper said.

"Just My Luck" and "Smokin' Aces" actor Chris Pine has been offered the role of Kirk.

The movie is slated to start shooting next month.