Did William Shatner Wear a Wig When Auditioning for Star Trek?

For years, fans and critics have debated whether William Shatner wore a wig during his iconic audition for the role of Captain James T. Kirk in Star Trek. This article explores the truth behind the rumors and provides insights into Shatner's hair during his time as a rising actor in Hollywood.

Shatner and the Wig Rumors

William Shatner, the venerable actor known for his role in Star Trek, has dealt with hair loss throughout his long career. Many fans have speculated that he wore a wig during his audition for the role of Captain Kirk. However, there is no definitive evidence to support these rumors. In fact, Shatner himself has never confirmed nor denied wearing a wig during the audition or while playing the role.

Shatner’s Hair at the Time of the Audition

During the mid-1960s, William Shatner was dealing with a premature onset of male pattern baldness. This is a common condition for many men, and as a result, he may have worn a hairpiece to fit the confident and charismatic image required for the role of Captain Kirk. However, there is no concrete proof of this practice during the audition.

Hollywood and Hairpieces

During the Golden Age of Hollywood, it was not uncommon for actors to use wigs or toupees to maintain a desired appearance. Many famous actors, including Shatner's contemporaries, also wore hairpieces. The use of hair enhancements was a standard practice to ensure that actors retained a youthful and attractive look for their roles.

Other Misconceptions About Shatner’s Hair

Public records and interviews have revealed that Shatner did not wear a wig during his time on the famous television show Columbo. In 1965, while playing the detective in Columbo, Shatner sports a full head of dark curls. It's important to note that he had this style while dealing with hair loss, likely using a toupee or hairpieces as was common among actors of the era.

Conclusion

The debate over whether William Shatner wore a wig during his audition for Star Trek remains a topic of fascination for fans and scholars alike. While there is no concrete evidence to support the use of a wig during the audition, it is clear that Shatner dealt with hair loss and used hair enhancements to maintain his portrayal of Captain Kirk. Regardless of the truth behind the rumors, Shatner's role as Captain Kirk remains one of the most beloved and enduring characters in science fiction history.