Few stars have accomplished all that William Shatner has throughout his 70-plus year career.
The Montreal-born actor is best known for his iconic role as Captain James T. Kirk in the Star Trek TV and film franchises, but he’s also starred in popular movies ranging from 1958’s The Brothers Karamazov and 1961’s Judgment at Nuremberg to 2000’s Miss Congeniality. His headlining role in the ‘80s TV cop show T.J. Hooker led to Emmy-winning parts in subsequent decades on the David E. Kelly series The Practice and Boston Legal.
Outside of acting, Shatner—who’s been honored by both the Hollywood and Canada Walks of Fame—has boldly ventured into the recording world, showcasing his uniquely dramatic stylings on several albums, including his 2024 children’s project, Where Will the Animals Sleep? Songs for Kids & Other Living Things. He’s even blasted off into actual space, when he climbed aboard Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket in 2021.
These days, Shatner is still riding high as the force behind May 31’s Hollywood Charity Horse Show at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center in Griffith Park, an event he launched in 1990 to raise funds for children’s and veterans’ causes. The event, and the joy it spreads, is just one of many things Shatner loves about his active and rewarding life in Southern California.
Where do you live? Los Angeles.
Why there? It’s the center of film work. Although companies film all over the world, the core of the industry is in Los Angeles.
Who or what is your greatest California love? There is so much to love about Los Angeles, and a lot if it has to do with being outdoors—in the mountains, in the forest, or the many horse facilities in the area. As a result of being involved with horses, I have put on a charity benefiting children and veterans for the past 35 years and have been fortunate enough to partner with the Banc of California.
What is the biggest misperception about Californians? That they are all laid-back.
What is the stereotype that most holds true? Tanned, athletic, beautiful, and intelligent.
Time for a road trip—where are you going? I love Northern California a great deal, Carmel in particular. The small-town vibe, the big-time extravaganza, the food, the weather, and the great car exhibitions.
If you could decree an official state culinary experience, what would it be? Lots of fresh fish and shellfish, with homegrown corn on the cob and a variety of mocktails.
What is your favorite way to play in California? I have horses in California, and I am with them a great deal. I compete on a quite regular basis. Horses and dogs are a part of my life.
Where would you go for the ultimate shopping spree in California? Every Sunday in my area there is a farmers’ market. They rope off a street and everyone comes to fill up for the week. The food is fresh and so are the people.
Best California song? “California Dreamin’” by The Mamas & the Papas. Everybody dreams about California but they can’t imagine half of it.
How would your California dream day unfold? Avocado toast and bitter coffee in the morning. Swim for an hour. Walk the dogs for another hour. Bicycle someplace interesting in our neighborhood. Drive to where my horses are boarded and ride. Lunch in a great neighborhood Mexican restaurant. Go to my office and work in the afternoon. Come home. Have toast and tea for dinner. Read or watch TV. Go to bed guiltless.