Wow – I have to say I’m shocked by this news. Apparently due to contractual obligations with Will Arnett’s long standing gig voicing GMC truck commercials, he was forced to back out of playing the role of KITT at the last minute. (you know, you’d think someone would have researched this before he did all of the voice work for the pilot – but whatever)

Last night, according to Knight Rider Online, producers met with, and cast, Val Kilmer (yes – former Batman, Val Kilmer) to replace Arnett on the show. It’s Feb 7th – the pilot airs in 10 days. To the production team I say – good luck.

Now, for those of you that are wondering why they didn’t cast the original voice of KITT, William Daniels, to take on the role, let’s clear a few things up. First, we don’t know if Mr. Daniels even wants the part – he may have been offered it…we don’t know. What we do know is that Mr. Daniels is 81 years old, and it may not be the best idea to cast an 81 man as the voice of a character for what you hope will be a long running series.

Regardless, ‘Knight Rider’ is still headed to TV screens on Feb. 17th – and it should be a very interesting night.