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 portrayal of Captain James T. Kirk in the Star Trek franchise. Beginning with the original Star Trek television series in 1966, Shatner embodied the character of Captain Kirk, captaining the starship Enterprise and leading its crew on numerous adventures. He continued in the role through seven Star Trek feature films, concluding with Star Trek Generations in 1994. His performance as Kirk solidified his place in pop culture history, making him a widely recognized and celebrated figure in the entertainment industry.

Sections (5)

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

1967: Pyrotechnical Accident During Star Trek Episode

In 1967, during the shooting of the Star Trek episode "Arena", a pyrotechnical accident may have triggered Shatner's tinnitus, a hearing disorder.

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April 1968: Fan Incident

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

1969: Cancellation of Star Trek

In 1969, the cancellation of Star Trek led to William Shatner experiencing difficulty finding employment and facing financial hardship.

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1997: Marriage to Nerine Kidd and her battle with alcoholism

In 1997, William Shatner married Nerine Kidd, who struggled with alcoholism. Leonard Nimoy supported her and took her to Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, but she didn't want to quit.

August 9, 1999: Death of Nerine Kidd Shatner

On August 9, 1999, William Shatner found his third wife, Nerine Kidd, deceased at the bottom of their swimming pool, her death ruled as accidental drowning.

July 2007: No Role in Star Trek Film

In July 2007, J.J. Abrams stated that the production of the 2009 Star Trek film was trying to find a way to include William Shatner but felt forcing him in "would be a disaster". Shatner echoed this sentiment in interviews.

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2009: JJ Abrams Star Trek film

In 2009, J.J. Abrams Star Trek film was released. William Shatner said that he had not been offered or suggested a role in the film, but that the production was trying to figure out a way to put him in.

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2009: Star Trek Film Release

In 2009, the Star Trek film was released. While Director J.J. Abrams considered including William Shatner, he was ultimately not included in the final cast due to concerns about forcing him into the plot.

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2017: Controversy over Autism Speaks Support

In 2017, Shatner faced criticism for tweeting support for Autism Speaks and subsequently arguing with autistic people and allies online.

2020: Argument on Twitter

In 2020, Shatner engaged in a month-long argument with other Twitter users regarding being called a 'straight white cis man'.

2021: Dismissive of Jewish Convert of Colour

In 2021, The Forward noted that Shatner was dismissive of a Jewish convert of colour, drawing comparisons to his previous arguments regarding the term 'cis' and Autism Speaks.