William Shatner, 95, Embraces Heavy Metal Music
The 'Star Trek' legend revealed he initially knew nothing about the genre but has come to love its energy.
William Shatner, 95, is venturing into new musical territory with an upcoming heavy metal album. The "Star Trek" actor told Page Six that when first approached about the project, his reaction was one of unfamiliarity.
"When they said, 'How'd you like to do a heavy metal album?' I said, 'What the F is heavy metal?'" Shatner recalled. He revealed that this very question inspired the album's title. Despite his initial ignorance of the genre, Shatner has developed an appreciation for it.
"I've come to love it," he stated, citing the music's energy and vitality as appealing qualities.
Shatner debuted his heavy metal band, The *uckers, earlier this year at Riot Fest 2026 in Chicago. The group has plans for future tours in Australia and Florida.
This is not Shatner's first foray into music. His recording career began in 1968 with "The Transformed Man," an album featuring spoken-word interpretations of popular songs. He later collaborated with Ben Folds for the 2004 album "Has Been" and released "Seeking Major Tom," which included covers of space-themed songs. His 2024 album, "So Fragile, So Blue," was inspired by his spaceflight with Blue Origin and recorded with the National Symphony Orchestra.
In addition to his heavy metal project, Shatner is also working on an album titled "Love & Other Mysteries" with country music artist Brad Paisley.
Shatner was recently in attendance to celebrate "The Sixty-Year Mission," a documentary he executive produced that explores the enduring legacy of "Star Trek." The film features interviews with franchise actors including Jonathan Frakes, Simon Pegg, Robert Picardo, Brent Spiner, and Ethan Peck.