Anton Yelchin won’t be replaced in future ‘Star Trek’ films: JJ Abrams

The character played by late actor Anton Yelchin won’t be recast for future Star Trek films, producer J.J. Abrams says.

Yelchin, 27, died in what the LAPD called a “freak accident” last month. The actor was found on his driveway pinned between his Jeep Grand Cherokee and the gate to his home.

READ MORE: Anton Yelchin’s car may have design flaw, LAPD investigating

The vehicle that rolled backwards on the steep driveway and crushed the actor was the subject of a voluntary recall and may have a design flaw that causes drivers to believe the vehicle is in the park position when it is not.

WATCH: Fiat Chrysler involved in investigation into death of ‘Star Trek’ actor Anton Yelchin 

2:32 Fiat Chrysler involved in investigation into death of ‘Star Trek’ actor Anton Yelchin

Yelchin played the role of Pavel Chekov in three Star Trek films, including Star Trek Beyond, which opens in theatres Friday. The character will not appear in any future films.

READ MORE: Hollywood reacts to the death of Anton Yelchin

Get breaking National news

For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen.

Sign up for breaking National newsletter Sign Up

By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Abrams told The Toronto Sun “there’s no replacing him.”

“There’s no recasting. I can’t possibly imagine that, and I think Anton deserves better.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "There's no recasting. I can't possibly imagine that, and I think Anton deserves better."

He said there has been a discussion regarding whether to kill off Yelchin’s character, but a decision has not been made.

Plans are in the works for a fourth film.