William Shatner has made some startling claims regarding the infamous Starfleet uniforms worn during “Star Trek: The Motion Picture.” The legendary actor, renowned for his portrayal of Admiral James T. Kirk, revealed that the design of these uniforms posed a serious risk to male actors’ fertility.
William Shatner’s “Star Trek” Experience
Shatner’s comments come from his memoir “Star Trek Movie Memories,” where he candidly discussed the discomfort caused by the form-fitting jumpsuits. He noted that they were not just aesthetically unpleasing but also incredibly impractical, especially for male cast members.
The Discomfort of the Jumpsuits
- Shatner described the uniforms as “ugly, form-fitting, pastel-colored” and “virtually impossible to sit in.”
- He remarked that the design caused significant discomfort, leading to “pitiful high-pitched yelps” from castmates.
- He humorously pointed out the uniforms threatened their ability to procreate due to how they restricted movement.
The jumpsuits, introduced in the 1979 film, deviated significantly from the two-piece uniforms seen in the original series. Their color palette included muted tones like beige and gray, which many fans and actors found unappealing.
Design Choices Behind the Uniforms
The new uniforms were crafted by designer Robert Fletcher, who took over from original costumer William Ware Theiss. Fletcher aimed to create more practical outfits for a futuristic setting, raising concerns about practicality and comfort.
- Fletcher criticized Theiss’ designs and believed they lacked practicality for real-life space missions.
- His vision included bio-monitors and a more functional cut, although this came at the expense of comfort.
Reception of the Uniforms
Even though Fletcher’s designs were intended to modernize Starfleet attire, they did not resonate positively with the actors. Shatner’s experiences highlight how crucial comfort is for performers, especially during extended filming schedules.
Ultimately, the backlash against the jumpsuits led to redesigns in subsequent films, such as “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan.” This shift indicates a recognition of the need for more functional and comfortable costumes for the franchise’s actors.
Shatner’s revelations serve as a reminder of the challenges faced in film production, where design and practicality must align to support the talents behind iconic characters.
