William Shatner, best known for his iconic role as Captain James T. Kirk in the Star Trek franchise, has expressed mixed feelings about his experiences with the series. At 94 years old, Shatner has openly admitted he has not watched most of the shows and films associated with Star Trek, describing the experience of viewing himself as “painful.”
Shatner’s Relationship with Star Trek
Shatner starred in all three seasons of the original Star Trek series, as well as in 21 episodes of the Animated Series and seven feature films. Despite this extensive involvement, he revealed to People magazine, “I have never watched Star Trek. There are many episodes I don’t know, and some movies I don’t know.”
Self-Perception and Acting
Actors often find it challenging to watch their performances due to self-criticism. Shatner is no exception, admitting, “It’s all painful because I don’t like the way I look and what I do.” This sentiment raises profound questions about the nature of acting and self-acceptance.
Directorial Experience
Interestingly, there is one Star Trek film Shatner has seen: Star Trek V, which he directed. He noted, “I had to watch that one.” This necessity stems from his role as a director, highlighting the difference between acting and directing when it comes to reviewing performance.
Legacy Beyond Star Trek
While his portrayal of Captain Kirk defines his career, Shatner has also acted in various other productions, including TJ Hooker and Miss Congeniality. He has authored several books related to his Star Trek experiences and other literary works.
Conclusion
Though Shatner is often associated with over-the-top performances typical of the 1960s, his lasting impact on the franchise and beyond cannot be understated. His unique perspective on viewing his performances adds depth to the understanding of an actor’s personal journey. Star Trek remains a significant milestone in his life, despite his reluctance to revisit it on-screen.
