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William Shatner (July 31, 2025) | Houston Public Media

William Shatner Joins Houston Matters: Reflections on a Storied Career, Space Exploration, and Life's Big Questions

In a captivating episode of Houston Matters aired on July 31, 2025, host Craig Cohen welcomed the legendary actor, author, and adventurer William Shatner for an in-depth conversation that spanned his iconic roles, real-life space journey, and philosophical musings on humanity's future. At 94 years old, Shatner appeared via video link from his home in California, exuding the same charisma that has defined his seven-decade career. The discussion, which lasted nearly an hour, touched on everything from his Star Trek legacy to his environmental advocacy, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the mind of a cultural icon who continues to push boundaries.

The episode opened with Cohen acknowledging Shatner's enduring impact on popular culture. Shatner, best known as Captain James T. Kirk from the original Star Trek series, reflected on how the show, which premiered in 1966, inadvertently became a beacon for diversity and exploration. "Star Trek was ahead of its time," Shatner said, recalling the groundbreaking interracial kiss between Kirk and Uhura, played by Nichelle Nichols. He shared anecdotes from the set, including how the show's creator, Gene Roddenberry, envisioned a utopian future where humanity had overcome its divisions. Shatner emphasized that the series' optimism resonated deeply during the turbulent 1960s, a time of civil rights struggles and the space race. He noted that even today, fans approach him with stories of how Star Trek inspired them to pursue careers in science, engineering, and diplomacy.

Transitioning from fiction to reality, the conversation delved into Shatner's actual trip to space in 2021 aboard Blue Origin's New Shepard rocket. At 90, he became the oldest person to venture into space, an experience he described as profoundly transformative. "It wasn't what I expected," Shatner admitted, his voice tinged with emotion. He recounted the moment of weightlessness, the stunning view of Earth's thin blue atmosphere against the blackness of space, and the overwhelming sense of fragility it instilled. Unlike the triumphant space adventures of Captain Kirk, Shatner said this real journey left him with a deep sadness. "I saw death," he explained, referring to the void of space contrasting with the vibrant life on Earth. This experience fueled his book, *Boldly Go: Reflections on a Life of Awe and Wonder*, where he explores themes of environmentalism and human responsibility. Cohen pressed him on this, asking how space travel has changed his perspective on climate change. Shatner responded passionately, urging immediate action: "We're on a spaceship called Earth, and we're destroying it. We need to treat it with the care it deserves."

Shatner also discussed his multifaceted career beyond Star Trek. He reminisced about his early days in Canadian theater, his roles in films like *The Twilight Zone* episode "Nightmare at 20,000 Feet," and his forays into music with albums like *Has Been* and *Seeking Major Tom*. His musical endeavors, often met with mixed reviews, were a point of lighthearted banter. "I've always been willing to take risks," Shatner laughed, admitting that his spoken-word style isn't for everyone but has garnered a cult following. He shared stories from his time hosting *Rescue 911*, a reality show that highlighted emergency responders, which he credited with saving lives by raising awareness about safety. Cohen brought up Shatner's recent documentary, *You Can Call Me Bill*, which offers an intimate look at his life. Shatner described it as a cathartic project, allowing him to confront personal regrets, including his strained relationships and the loss of his wife, Nerine, in 1999.

A significant portion of the interview focused on Shatner's thoughts on aging and legacy. Approaching his 95th birthday, he spoke candidly about mortality, drawing from his book *Live Long And... What I Learned Along the Way*. "I've lived a full life, but I'm not done yet," he asserted. He discussed his ongoing projects, including a potential return to space tourism advocacy and new writing endeavors. Shatner expressed optimism about advancements in technology, such as AI and renewable energy, but warned against complacency. "We must use these tools to unite, not divide," he said, echoing Star Trek's ethos.

The discussion took a Houston-specific turn when Cohen asked about Shatner's connections to the city. Shatner recalled performing at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo in the 1970s and his admiration for NASA's Johnson Space Center. "Houston is the heart of space exploration," he praised, noting how the city's role in the Apollo missions inspired generations. He encouraged young Houstonians to pursue STEM fields, sharing a message of perseverance: "Dream big, like Kirk exploring new frontiers. But remember, the real adventure is here on Earth, making it better for everyone."

Environmental themes resurfaced as Shatner addressed the ongoing challenges of climate change, particularly in Texas. He referenced recent hurricanes and heatwaves, stressing the need for global cooperation. "We've got to stop fighting over resources and start sharing them," he urged. Cohen inquired about Shatner's involvement with organizations like the World Wildlife Fund, where he's been a vocal supporter. Shatner explained his shift from a meat-heavy diet to vegetarianism, motivated by animal welfare and sustainability. "It's not just about saving the planet; it's about saving ourselves," he said.

Shatner also touched on his experiences with fame and fandom. He recounted humorous encounters at conventions, where fans dress as Klingons or recite lines from *Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan*. "Khan!" he exclaimed dramatically, mimicking his famous scream from the film, which drew laughs from the studio audience. Yet, he grew serious when discussing the darker side of celebrity, including privacy invasions and the pressure to maintain a public persona. "I've learned to embrace it, but it's a double-edged sword," he reflected.

As the interview wound down, Shatner shared philosophical insights on life's purpose. Drawing from his Jewish heritage and personal spirituality, he pondered the universe's vastness. "We're all stardust, connected in ways we can't fully understand," he mused. He encouraged listeners to find joy in everyday moments, whether through art, nature, or relationships. Cohen wrapped up by thanking Shatner for his time, noting how his stories continue to inspire.

The episode concluded with listener call-ins, where Houston residents shared their favorite Shatner moments. One caller, a teacher, described using Star Trek episodes to teach ethics in her classroom. Another, an aspiring astronaut, asked for advice on overcoming obstacles. Shatner responded warmly: "Boldly go where no one has gone before—but take others with you."

This Houston Matters segment not only celebrated William Shatner's remarkable journey but also served as a reminder of the power of storytelling to bridge generations and spark change. From the final frontier to the challenges facing our planet, Shatner's words left a lasting impression, encouraging all to live with curiosity and compassion. (Word count: 1,028)

Read the Full Houston Public Media Article at:
[ https://www.houstonpublicmedia.org/articles/shows/houston-matters/2025/07/31/527171/william-shatner-july-31-2025/ ]