You can relax fanboys and girls, Trekkies and Trekkettes, as what you already knew was going to happen has happened: J.J. Abrams has officially signed on to direct Star Trek 2.
Once slated for release June 29, 2012, the reenergized series went quiet while Abrams produced a number of projects and turned his directing attention to this summer’s Super 8. Eventually, with a lack of momentum on the project, Paramount gave the film's June release date to the now-filming G.I. Joe: Retaliation.
Vulture reports that not only has Abrams put pen to paper to helm the anticipated sequel, but pre-production is in full swing, the script is close to being finished and plans are underway to begin shooting this winter. The sequel is expected to bring not only Abrams back, but also power duo Alex Kurtzman and Roberto Orci to pen the script. Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto are expected to return as Captain Kirk and Spock, respectively.