Challenges Faced by William Shatner: Obstacles and Turning Points

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of William Shatner. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

William Shatner is a Canadian actor renowned for his iconic role as James T. Kirk, captain of the starship Enterprise in the Star Trek franchise. His portrayal began in 1966 with the second pilot of the original Star Trek television series and extended to his final appearance as Kirk in the 1994 film, Star Trek Generations. Shatner's career spans seven decades, marking him as a significant figure in science fiction and popular culture.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

1967: Shooting of Star Trek episode Arena

During the shooting of the 1967 Star Trek episode "Arena", a pyrotechnical accident occurred, which Shatner believes may have contributed to him developing tinnitus in the early 1990s.

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1969: Post-Star Trek Difficulties

In 1969, after the cancellation of Star Trek, William Shatner experienced difficulty finding employment and faced financial hardship, even living in a truck-bed camper.

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1977: The $10,000 Pyramid blunder

In 1977, William Shatner made a mistake on The $10,000 Pyramid when he blurted out the word "blessed", costing his partner a $20,000 prize and causing him to throw a chair.

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1993: Doohan declines interview for Shatner's memoir

In 1993, James Doohan declined to be interviewed by William Shatner for his first memoir, Star Trek Memories, making him the only former Star Trek co-star to do so at the time, reflecting the strained relationship between the two.

Star Trek Memories

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2004: Takei's memoir, To the Stars

In 2004, George Takei wrote about his issues with William Shatner in his memoir, To the Stars, highlighting the ongoing tensions between them.

2009: No role in Star Trek film

In 2009, William Shatner was not offered or suggested a role in the Star Trek film.

2021: Political Controversy Over RT Show

In 2021, William Shatner faced political controversy when his show, I Don't Understand with William Shatner, was scheduled to air on RT.

2023: Takei's continued hostility towards Shatner

In 2023, during an interview in London, George Takei expressed that time had not diminished his negative feelings towards William Shatner, reiterating his view of Shatner as difficult and self-centered.