29 Facts About William Shatner

Early Life and Career Beginnings

William Shatner, a name synonymous with science fiction, has a life filled with fascinating details. Let's dive into some lesser-known facts about this iconic actor.

1. 01Born on March 22, 1931, in Montreal, Canada, Shatner's early years were spent in a Jewish household.
2. 02Shatner attended McGill University, where he earned a degree in Economics before pursuing acting.
3. 03His first acting job was at the Canadian National Repertory Theatre, where he honed his craft.
4. 04Shatner's first TV appearance was in a Canadian series called "The Canadian Howdy Doody Show."

Rise to Stardom

Shatner's career took off with a role that would define him for decades. Here are some key moments from his rise to fame.

5. 05In 1966, Shatner was cast as Captain James T. Kirk in "Star Trek," a role that made him a household name.
6. 06Despite its initial cancellation in 1969, "Star Trek" gained a massive cult following, boosting Shatner's fame.
7. 07Shatner reprised his role as Captain Kirk in seven "Star Trek" films, starting with "Star Trek: The Motion Picture" in 1979.
8. 08He directed "Star Trek V: The Final Frontier," showcasing his talents behind the camera.

Beyond Star Trek

Shatner's career is not limited to the "Star Trek" universe. He has explored various genres and roles.

9. 09Shatner starred in the popular TV series "T.J. Hooker" from 1982 to 1986, playing a tough cop.
10. 10He won two Emmy Awards for his role as Denny Crane in "Boston Legal."
11. 11Shatner appeared in the reality TV series "Rescue 911," which he also hosted.
12. 12He voiced characters in animated series like "The Simpsons" and "Futurama."

Personal Life

Shatner's personal life is as intriguing as his professional one. Here are some interesting tidbits.

13. 13Shatner has been married four times, with his most recent marriage ending in 2020.
14. 14He has three daughters from his first marriage to Gloria Rand.
15. 15Shatner is an avid horse rider and has won several horse-riding competitions.
16. 16He is also a dedicated philanthropist, supporting various charities and causes.

Music and Writing

Shatner's talents extend beyond acting. He has made significant contributions to music and literature.

17. 17Shatner released his first album, "The Transformed Man," in 1968, featuring spoken word renditions of popular songs.
18. 18He collaborated with Ben Folds on the 2004 album "Has Been," which received critical acclaim.
19. 19Shatner has written several books, including his autobiography "Up Till Now."
20. 20He co-authored a series of science fiction novels called "TekWar," which was later adapted into a TV series.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Shatner's life is full of quirky and fun facts that add to his legendary status.

21. 21Shatner is fluent in French, thanks to his Canadian upbringing.
22. 22He has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, awarded in 1983.
23. 23Shatner is a licensed pilot and enjoys flying in his spare time.
24. 24He once sold his kidney stone for $25,000, donating the proceeds to charity.
25. 25Shatner has a unique way of speaking, often referred to as "Shatnerian," characterized by dramatic pauses and emphasis.

Recent Endeavors

Even in his 90s, Shatner continues to stay active in the entertainment industry and beyond.

26. 26In 2021, Shatner became the oldest person to travel to space, thanks to Blue Origin's New Shepard rocket.
27. 27He continues to make guest appearances on various TV shows and movies.
28. 28Shatner hosts a popular podcast called "Shatner's World," where he discusses his life and career.
29. 29He remains active on social media, engaging with fans and sharing his thoughts on various topics.

Shatner's Lasting Impact

William Shatner's influence on pop culture is undeniable. From his iconic role as Captain Kirk in Star Trek to his ventures into music, writing, and even space travel, Shatner's career spans decades and genres. His unique style and charisma have made him a household name, inspiring countless fans and future actors. Beyond entertainment, his curiosity and willingness to explore new frontiers, like his recent trip to space, show a man constantly pushing boundaries. Shatner's legacy isn't just in his roles but in his ability to reinvent himself and stay relevant. Whether you're a Trekkie or just someone who appreciates a good story, Shatner's life offers plenty of inspiration. His journey reminds us that age is just a number and that it's never too late to chase new dreams.