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 celebrated Canadian actor with a career spanning seven decades. He achieved iconic status for his portrayal of Captain James T. Kirk in the Star Trek franchise. His role began in 1966 with the original Star Trek television series and continued through seven feature films, concluding with Star Trek Generations in 1994. Shatner's portrayal of Kirk has cemented his place in pop culture history.

Sections (5)

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

1967: Possible cause of tinnitus

In 1967, during the shooting of the Star Trek episode "Arena", a pyrotechnical accident may have led to William Shatner developing tinnitus.

April 1968: Fan Incident

In April 1968, a group of Star Trek fans attempted to tear William Shatner's clothes from him as he left 30 Rockefeller Plaza.

1969: Difficulty finding employment after Star Trek cancellation

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

1993: Star Trek Memories memoir

In 1993, James Doohan declined to be interviewed by William Shatner for his first memoir, Star Trek Memories.

Star Trek Memories

Check it on Amazon

1997: Marriage to Nerine Kidd and Her Struggles with Alcoholism

In 1997, William Shatner married Nerine Kidd, against advice, hoping she would overcome her alcoholism; Leonard Nimoy, who had personal experience with alcoholism, tried to help her, but she continued to struggle.

August 9, 1999: Death of Nerine Kidd

On August 9, 1999, William Shatner found his third wife, Nerine Kidd, dead in their backyard swimming pool; her death was ruled an accidental drowning due to alcohol and diazepam.