Star Wars is heading to IMAX for the first time and the announcement came as its longtime sci-fi rival, Star Trek, turns 60. Disney and Lucasfilm have announced that the original 1977 film and the upcoming Star Wars: Starfighter will be released on IMAX in 2027, as part of the franchise's 50th anniversary celebration. However, Trekkies were quick to point out that the announcement came on September 8, the day Star Trek celebrated its 60th anniversary.This coincidence also caught the eye of actor William Shatner (who played Captain Kirk in The Original Series), who took a dig at Disney's announcement on X:"Anyone else find it odd that IMAX chose today to announce this?"In a separate X post, Shatner added:"Not to EVER be accused of trolling such ahem…“wonderful” franchise on my franchise’s birthday but help me to understand. So you are saying this next iteration film is so big that it won’t play in most theaters around the world? I’m ok with that."Disney announced Star Wars' IMAX debut as Star Trek turns 60William Shatner is spot-on in observing that Star Wars: Starfighter won't play in most theaters. Still, Lucasfilm's franchise made history on Star Trek's 60th anniversary by announcing its 2027 IMAX debut.On the occasion of Gene Roddenberry's beloved sci-fi franchise turning 60, Lucasfilm and Disney announced that the 1977 film Star Wars: A New Hope and the upcoming Ryan Gosling-led Starfighter will debut on IMAX in 2027. The upcoming chapter in the Star Wars franchise directed by Shawn Levy is shot with IMAX-certified film cameras and converted to IMAX 70mm film prints. This marks a historic moment as it will be the first time Lucasfilm's franchise will be screened in a premium format on May 28, 2027.The 1977 film will be re-released in IMAX for the first time on February 19, 2027. George Lucas' original film was shown in 70mm during its initial theatrical run but it was never released in the modern IMAX format. The 2027 presentation will therefore give audiences their first opportunity to experience the classic on an enormous IMAX screen, with select locations receiving 70mm film prints.William Shatner's light-hearted take on Star Wars vs. Star TrekThe calendar coincidence naturally earned a playful dig from Captain James T. Kirk himself. This is not the first time William Shatner has taken a jab at the Lucasfilm franchise, as he is known for his light-hearted banter on social media. While Shatner initially agreed that Star Trek is a superior franchise (as it explores humanity and relationships), he eventually credited Star Wars with helping pave the way for his franchise's return in the media.In an interview, William Shatner even jokingly suggested the ultimate crossover through an imaginary elopement between Captain Kirk and Princess Leia, which would end the Star Wars vs. Star Trek debate once and for all.While Shatner is known for taking humorous jabs at his rival franchise, fans have speculated that he does not actually operate his X account. Reportedly, Shatner's X account is managed by his assistant and business partner, Paul Camuso. While the truth behind Shatner's social media activity remains a mystery, Disney's move has proved that the rivalry is very much alive.Star Wars: Starfighter is scheduled to be released in the United States on May 28, 2027. Star Wars: A New Hope will be re-released on February 17.For the latest scoops on your favorite TV shows and movies, follow SoapCentral.