As early as July 2006, director J.J. Abrams was telling the media that he wanted no other actor for the part of Cpt. Kirk than “Bourne” star Matt Damon. When nothing else was heard of the rumor, it was believed that the role was meant to go to newcomer Chris Pine, but the director is now speaking with the media, setting the record straight: he did approach Damon for the part, but was turned down, StarPulse informs.

“I actually approached Matt and we had some discussions, but everything happens for a reason. On the one hand, it would have been great to work with Matt – but at the end of the day, it was such a better move to cast the movie with unknowns.” Abrams says in a recent interview. However, it could just be that Damon’s refusal was for the better, since, this way, he got to have a say in the discovery of new talents and help promote young stars.

Moreover, the famed director says, having unknown stars in the cast will only make the much-hyped film more believable. “It is fun to discover the stars of tomorrow, but even more so, just like with the first Star Wars, you didn’t know who those people were when you saw the movie. You believed that guy was Luke Skywalker. You didn’t recognize him from six other movies. You bought into who this guy was. It is a slippery slope when you cast any actor that is somewhat known. We weren’t beholden to any fame meter.” Abrams further explains.

While it is not yet known why Matt Damon turned down Abram’s offer, it is believed that it was because he was looking to move away from the action genre and focus on other types of projects that would be more suitable for his age. On the same note, he also revealed recently that a fourth “Bourne” movie was not really a possibility on account of the grueling schedule and physically challenging stunts he would have to do. However, that is yet to be confirmed.

“Star Trek” has already premiered in Austin, Texas, but is scheduled for a nationwide release on May 8. Chris Pine is already getting raving reviews for his performance, so perhaps Abrams did make the right choice when he went for a newcomer.