Was William Shatner Ever a Fan of Science/Fantasy or Did He Just Take Advantage of Being Thrown into the Role of Captain Kirk?

Long before he became a household name as Captain James T. Kirk of the starship USS Enterprise, William Shatner's relationship with science fiction was multifaceted. Some might argue that he was never truly a fan, while others claim he embraced his role with enthusiasm. This article explores the nuances of Shatner's connection to the genre, delving into his early fandom, professional contributions, and personal thoughts.

The Early Inspiration

William Shatner's love for science fiction was evident well before he donned the iconic uniform of Captain Kirk. He has stated on numerous occasions that he was not just a fan but a true admirer of the genre. Shatner joined the ranks of Star Trek as the series was gaining significant traction, and from that point onwards, his enthusiasm for science fiction remained a constant.

”From the beginning, I read everything I could about the series— which was unlike anything that had been on TV before and was a true phenomenon.” This quote, attributed to Shatner, encapsulates his fascination with the show and the groundbreaking nature of Star Trek.

Capitalizing on Fame

While Shatner’s role as Captain Kirk undoubtedly propelled him into the limelight, his relationship with the genre extended far beyond a mere association with a popular television show. Shatner has often spoken about the immense impact that Star Trek had on his career and personal life.

“I have been a fan of TOS January of 1967. It is entirely fair to say that I have been a Trekkie since before there even were Trekkies.” This statement underscores Shatner's enduring passion for the genre, highlighting his long-standing admiration for Star Trek.

Professional Contributions to the Genre

Shatner's love for science fiction also translated into his professional life. After Star Trek, he continued to write science fiction, contributing to the genre he had long been a fan of. The Tek Wars series, which he co-wrote as a professional science fiction author, offers compelling proof of his ongoing engagement with the realm of science fiction.

“Ever definitely. After Star Trek, he wrote some science fiction of his own including the Tek Wars series.” This assertion by one of his collaborators, Ron Goulart, further solidifies Shatner's dedication to the genre. The Tek Wars novels, written under the pseudonym “Ron Shymko,” were a direct result of Shatner’s ideas. This collaboration not only showcased his ability to write within the science fiction genre but also highlighted his genuine appreciation for the themes and concepts explored in the field.

Ghostwriting and Creations

The Tek Wars series was initially penned by Ron Goulart, a professional science fiction author. However, Goulart wrote these novels based on Shatner’s ideas and creative input. This collaboration between the actor and the author demonstrates the depth of Shatner's involvement with the genre. By allowing Goulart to handle the ghostwriting while Shatner provided the core concepts, both parties contributed to the rich world of science fiction that these novels depicted.

Controversies and Personal Thoughts

Despite his proven love for science fiction and his professional contributions to the genre, some observers argue that Shatner's initial perception of Star Trek was not entirely positive. One notable fan expressed skepticism, stating, “I have no idea whether Shatner ever developed an interest in science fiction. My intuition says 'probably not.'” This view reflects a perspective that Shatner's enthusiasm for Star Trek was driven more by the opportunity it presented than a genuine passion for the genre.

However, Shatner's words and actions suggest a more nuanced relationship with science fiction. His continued involvement in writing and promoting science fiction fiction, as evidenced by the Tek Wars series, indicates a sincere interest beyond the confines of his role in Star Trek.

Conclusion

William Shatner's relationship with science fiction is complex and multifaceted. While he capitalized on the fame from his role as Captain Kirk, his love for the genre goes beyond mere opportunism. His ongoing involvement in writing science fiction and the support he has shown for the genre, through both his actions and words, speak volumes about his true appreciation for the field. Whether one views him as a fan or a pragmatist, Shatner's enduring connection to science fiction remains a significant part of his legacy.