William Shatner in The Big Valley: A Rare Guest Star Appearance

Many fans of classic television series may be surprised to learn about the rare appearance of William Shatner in the 1960s Western drama, The Big Valley. This lesser-known fact adds an interesting twist to the careers of two iconic figures in the entertainment industry.

William Shatner and The Big Valley

Despite William Shatner's prolific acting career, his guest star role in the episode A Time to Kill (1966) is often overlooked. This appears to be one of the few instances where an actor known primarily for his roles in Star Trek, Robinson Crusoe on Mars, and other popular series made a significant appearance in a lesser-known Western drama. The role is testament to Shatner's versatility as an actor, capable of commanding a screen in a variety of genres.

The Episode: A Time to Kill

The episode A Time to Kill stands out for its evocative title, originally chosen by author John Grisham, which he felt was a catchy and intriguing title for the storyline. Grisham's choice of title certainly drew attention to the episode and the show itself. William Shatner’s performance in the episode was initially praised by some, despite others noting it might have seemed a little 'wooden' by modern standards.

The Role of William Shatner

Though details of Shatner's character and exact role are limited in the historical records, it is clear that he played a significant part in the narrative of A Time to Kill. His performance adds a unique touch to the episode, demonstrating his acting depth and range. This brief but memorable stint in a Western series is a rare highlight in Shatner's extensive professional career and serves as a fascinating anecdote for fans of both the actor and the show.

William Sharper and Star Trek

Meanwhile, fellow actor William Sharper made a notable guest appearance in the Star Trek episode Miri during the same time period. While details about Sharper's specific role are scarce, his inclusion in such a seminal work of science fiction highlights the interconnected nature of these actors' careers during the 1960s.

Some critics suggest that Sharper's performance in Miri was rather 'wooden', while others argue it was purposefully performed to add an air of mystery and enigma to the character. Regardless, Sharper's role in Miri marked him as a versatile performer capable of playing a range of difficult or unconventional characters.

Conclusion

The careers of William Shatner and William Sharper were marked by appearances in a variety of genres during the 1960s, from Westerns to science fiction. Their episodes in The Big Valley and Star Trek, respectively, serve as a testament to their talents and the diversity of roles they could command in their professional lives. These rare instances in their careers add an extra layer of interest and intrigue for fans of both actors and classic television.

Through these guest appearances, both Shatner and Sharper demonstrated their ability to step outside their usual roles and take on new challenges, enriching the entertainment landscapes of their time.