While we wait for Star Trek Beyond to hit local cinemas (26 August), there is some interesting news regarding the TV series that American network CBS is preparing to debut next year. Titled Star Trek Discovery, The Hollywood Reporter (THR) recently detailed that its lead character would be female. Added to this, it would also feature a homosexual character for one of the male roles, as well as a Klingon Captain.

Confirming the casting details to THR was producer Bryan Fuller, noting that, "we wanted to paint a picture of Star Fleet that's indicative of encountering people who are much more different than we are."  

This female character, yet to be named or indeed cast, will not be the highest ranking officer in the series though. It's a significant move, as it's one of the first times where the series lead has not been one of the highest ranking officers in Star Fleet. As such, we're hoping CBS can tell some interesting stories with Star Trek Discovery, by using a different point of view for audiences. Let's also not forget Kathryn Janeway (Kate Mulgrew) who captain the USS Voyager deep in the outer reaches of the Delta Quadrant.

The series is set to air in 2017, but no precise date has been detailed at this stage.