Takei stars in new 'Ninjas' comedy series

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Jan. 11 (UPI) -- George Takei has joined the cast of the new live-action comedy series, "Supah Ninjas," the U.S. cable network Nickelodeon said Monday.

"Comic-book in tone and cinematic in style, the half-hour series follows three unsuspecting kids who are drafted into the secret world of crime-fighting after Mike Fukanaga (played by Ryan Potter,) an average high-school student, discovers he is descended from a long line of ninjas," the network said in a news release.

Takei will play the spirit of Mike's recently deceased grandfather, who appears to him and the team of "Supah Ninjas" as an interactive hologram and offers guidance, wisdom and training.

Picked up for 26 episodes, the show is to premiere Jan. 17.

"It's a complete delight to be part of 'Supah Ninjas' because the series is a wonderful blend of sharp humor, lots of action and heart," Takei said in a statement. "The grandfather has the serious task of instructing the next generation of ninjas, but he also has a lot of funny moments and I find that a refreshing take on the traditional teacher-student relationship."

"George Takei is beloved by audiences around the world and he connects with people of all ages," Marjorie Cohn, president of Nickelodeon's original programming and development, said. "George brings an instant credibility to any show with a sci-fi or action slant. We're thrilled to have him bring his incredible talent to this fun new comedy."

Takei is best known for his work in the "Star Trek" TV and film franchise.