J.J. Abrams has found his "Scotty" — British actor Simon Pegg. This news come courtesy both The Hollywood Reporter and Variety.

Known for his comedic roles in "Shaun of the Dead" and "Hot Fuzz," Pegg also appeared as the technical wizard "Benji" in Abrams' hit "Mission: Impossible III."

The versatile Pegg joins Leonard Nimoy, Zachary Quinto, Anton Yelchin, Zoë Saldana and — just announced Tuesday — Eric Bana in the upcoming film.

The new "Star Trek" film (as-yet-untitled) begins shooting in November, for release on Christmas Day 2008.

The role of Montgomery Scott, chief engineer of the U.S.S. Enterprise, originated in the second Star Trek pilot, "Where No Man Has Gone Before," with the late James Doohan. Doohan would continue to play the part for nearly 30 years, through seven movies and an episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation.

One of Doohan's two eldest sons, Chris Doohan, told STARTREK.COM he was surprised by the casting choice but believes Pegg will do a great job in the part. "No, he doesn't look like my father and he has a little less hair than Scotty did, but his accent is good and he's a great actor. I send my congratulations to you, Simon, and I hope you 'give 'er all ya got, laddie!'" Chris said. "P.S. I'm still available for a small walk-on role, J.J. ..."