William Shatner, a name synonymous with science fiction and popular culture, has had an illustrious career that spans decades in acting, directing, producing, and even music. With an estimated net worth of $100 million, Shatner’s wealth is a testament to his multifaceted career, which includes his legendary portrayal of Captain James T. Kirk in the Star Trek franchise, as well as his work in television, film, and beyond. Over the years, he has become not just a beloved figure in science fiction but also a respected and versatile performer across multiple genres. This article dives into William Shatner’s remarkable career, personal life, and the path that led him to his current wealth.
Early Life and Family Background
William Shatner was born on March 22, 1931, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, into a Jewish family. His parents, Ann and Joseph, gave him a supportive environment for his early development. Shatner’s childhood was spent in Canada, where he attended Willingdon Elementary School and West Hill High School. He later pursued studies at McGill University in Montreal, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics in 1952. Despite his academic background, Shatner was drawn to the world of acting, starting his professional career with the Canadian National Repertory Theatre.
His ambition led him to perform in various Shakespearean productions, honing his acting skills, and preparing him for the diverse roles he would take on in the years to come. Shatner’s family also played a significant role in shaping his life, and his two sisters, along with his supportive parents, were integral to his early development.
Breakthrough in Television: Star Trek
William Shatner’s life would forever change in 1966 when he was cast as Captain James T. Kirk in Star Trek: The Original Series. The show, created by Gene Roddenberry, ran for three seasons until 1969, but its cultural impact was profound. Although the series struggled with ratings during its initial run, it gained a devoted following in syndication, turning Shatner into a household name. His portrayal of Captain Kirk—a bold, charismatic, and sometimes flawed leader—became one of the most iconic roles in television history.
Shatner’s work in Star Trek led to a long-standing association with the franchise. He reprised his role in seven Star Trek films, from 1979’s Star Trek: The Motion Picture to 1994’s Star Trek Generations. Shatner also directed Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (1989), further cementing his influence within the Star Trek universe.
While Shatner’s work on Star Trek made him famous, it also led to a unique career challenge: he was often typecast as Captain Kirk, a role that he initially resisted but later embraced. Over time, he made peace with his association with the character, eventually becoming a beloved figure at fan conventions around the world.
Career Beyond Star Trek: Television, Film, and Music
After his success with Star Trek, Shatner continued his career in television, taking on new roles that showcased his versatility as an actor. In the 1980s, he starred as Sergeant T.J. Hooker in the police procedural T.J. Hooker (1982-1986). This series, which ran for five seasons, gave Shatner a chance to showcase his dramatic chops while also serving as a producer and director for several episodes.
In the 1990s, Shatner found further success with the legal drama The Practice, where he played eccentric attorney Denny Crane. His performance earned him two Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe. Following the success of The Practice, Shatner reprised the role of Denny Crane in the spinoff Boston Legal (2004-2008), where his portrayal of the aging and morally complex character won him even more accolades.
Shatner’s success wasn’t limited to acting. He became a recording artist, releasing several spoken-word albums, including The Transformed Man (1968), which gained cult status for its quirky spoken interpretations of popular songs. In 2011, Shatner released Seeking Major Tom, an album featuring covers of iconic songs like Space Oddity and Bohemian Rhapsody. While unconventional, Shatner’s music career remains a memorable part of his legacy.
Convention Appearances and Public Appearances
William Shatner remains one of the most popular figures at fan conventions, often appearing at dozens of events each year. For these appearances, Shatner charges a fee of $10,000 for travel expenses and $10,000 per hour, with a minimum five-hour appearance requirement. His continued popularity at conventions is a testament to the enduring love fans have for his portrayal of Captain Kirk and his overall contribution to pop culture.
Rumors and the Priceline Deal
There has been a persistent rumor that William Shatner made $600 million from his involvement with Priceline.com. In 1997, Shatner became the face of Priceline as their “Priceline Negotiator,” a role that brought him widespread recognition. According to the rumor, Shatner received stock in the company instead of cash, and when Priceline’s stock skyrocketed, he allegedly made millions. However, Shatner has repeatedly denied these rumors, stating that he did not make $600 million from Priceline and that the claims were entirely untrue.
Despite these rumors, Shatner’s financial success has still been significant, thanks to his extensive acting career, commercial ventures, and convention earnings. His net worth of $100 million reflects his diversified career in the entertainment industry.
Personal Life and Marriages
William Shatner’s personal life has been marked by several high-profile marriages. He was first married to Canadian actress Gloria Rand in 1956, with whom he had three daughters. They divorced in 1969. His second marriage was to Marcy Lafferty, which lasted until 1996. Shatner’s third marriage was to Nerine Kidd, who tragically passed away in 1999. In 2001, Shatner married Elizabeth Anderson Martin, with whom he had a lengthy marriage before their divorce in 2020. As part of their divorce settlement, Shatner paid a lump sum of $2 million in spousal support and deeded her properties in Malibu and Kentucky.
Real Estate Holdings
William Shatner owns several properties, including a four-bedroom, four-bathroom home in Studio City, California. He also maintained an 18-acre ranch in Three Rivers, California, which he purchased in 1979. As part of his divorce settlement, Shatner deeded properties to his ex-wife but retained a significant real estate portfolio that includes both residential and ranch properties.
Legacy and Conclusion
William Shatner’s career has spanned decades, and his influence on pop culture is undeniable. Whether through his iconic portrayal of Captain Kirk, his comedic roles in Boston Legal, or his unconventional music career, Shatner has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. With a net worth of $100 million, Shatner’s wealth reflects his diverse talents and entrepreneurial ventures.
Despite rumors and controversies, Shatner’s legacy as a cultural icon and beloved performer continues to grow. From Star Trek to his adventures in space, Shatner’s journey remains a fascinating story of success, perseverance, and creativity, cementing his place as one of Hollywood’s most enduring and versatile stars.
