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 Captain James T. Kirk in the Star Trek franchise. His career spans seven decades, beginning with the original Star Trek television series in 1966. He played Kirk until his character's final appearance in 'Star Trek Generations' (1994).

Sections (5)

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

1967: Pyrotechnical accident during Star Trek episode "Arena"

During the shooting of the 1967 Star Trek episode "Arena", William Shatner experienced a pyrotechnical accident that may have led to his development of tinnitus.

April 1968: Admirer Incident

In April 1968, a group of fans attempted to tear his clothes from him as he left 30 Rockefeller Plaza.

1969: Cancellation of Star Trek and its aftermath

In 1969, following the cancellation of Star Trek, William Shatner faced challenges in finding employment and experienced financial difficulties, including a period of living in a truck-bed camper.

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August 9, 1999: Death of Nerine Kidd

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

October 2004: Star Trek: Enterprise Story Arc Cancellation

In October 2004, Manny Coto revealed plans for Shatner to guest-star in a three-episode story arc of Star Trek: Enterprise, but the series was canceled, preventing his participation.

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July 2007: Discussion about Star Trek Role

In July 2007, Director J. J. Abrams mentioned that the production of the 2009 film Star Trek was "desperately trying to figure out a way to put him in" but that to "shove him in ... would be a disaster".

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