Ricky Gervais, star of Extras and (original English version) The Office, apparently turned down a role offered to him by J.J. Abrams in 'Star Trek'.  Scotty Maybe?

The actor and comedian told BBC's 'Newsbeat' that JJ Abrams offered him a number of roles, which he couldn't take on because of other commitments.

Gervais said: "He's offered me a couple of parts I couldn't do, one in 'Mission: Impossible' and one in 'Star Trek' itself but I couldn't do them because I was busy."

"I'll work with him again one day and I've thanked him, I've thanked him very much."

Gervais also said that he was thrilled to hear that Abrams had praised his upcoming film 'The Invention of Lying'.

Abrams said of the movie: "Ricky Gervais proves, once again, that he is the master. Not only of comedy, but social commentary."

"'The Invention Of Lying' is as funny as it is biting, wholly original, and surprisingly moving. Is there such thing as important comedy? Turns out there is, and this is it."

Gervais said: "It's the best thing anyone's ever said about anything I've ever done. I was blown away. 'Star Trek' was my favourite film of this year. (source RTE Entertainment)

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