Roberto Orci confirmed to direct Star Trek 3

Roberto Orci is due to direct Star Trek 3 (Getty Images)

Roberto Orci has been confirmed as the new director for Star Trek 3, according to reports.

Orci will replace Star Trek director JJ Abrams, who is currently busy working on the Star Wars franchise.

The film will mark Orci’s directional debut, having previously worked as a writer and producer on two previous Star Trek films Star Trek (2009) and Star Trek Into Darkness (2013).

It is unusual for a screenwriter to make a debut on such a large-scale film, and it is unclear yet whether JJ Abrams will serve as a mentor to Orci on the film.

Orci co-wrote the first two Star Trek films with ex-writing partner Alex Kurtzman, who he recently parted ways with to pursue solo projects.

He is currently writing the script to Star Trek 3 with JD Payne and Patrick McKay, and has reportedly been keen to replace Abrams for some time.

His previous writing and producing credits include The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (2014), Transformers (2007) and Mission: Impossible III (2006).

Plot details for Star Trek 3 are as yet unknown, but cast members including Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto are expected to return for the sequel.