William Shatner

In 1956, William Shatner made his Broadway debut in "Tamburlaine the Great," and he also found work in the emerging medium of television, appearing on such shows as the "Goodyear Television Playhouse," "Studio One" and "Playhouse 90." Playing one of the title characters, Shatner made his film debut in 1958's "The Brothers Karamazov" with Yul Brynner. That same year, he returned to Broadway for a two-year run in "The Secret Life of Suzie Wong." He won the 1959 Theatre World Award for his performance.

The role that made Shatner famous around the world was that of Captain James T. Kirk, commander of the U.S.S. Enterprise, a starship traveling through space in the twenty-third century. In "Star Trek," Kirk encountered all sorts of unusual aliens and challenging situations during his journeys. The series lasted for three seasons but continued to live on in syndication, growing more popular. Shatner reprised the role of Captain Kirk in seven "Star Trek" motion pictures, one of which he directed, "Star Trek V: The Final Frontier."

Following "Star Trek," Shatner starred as a veteran police officer on "T. J. Hooker" and became the host for "Rescue 911" in 1989. His portrayal of Denny Crane on "The Practice" and its spin-off "Boston Legal" won him two Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe. Shatner's diverse talents extend into writing, with titles such as "Spirit of the Horse: A Celebration in Fact and Fable," and acting in projects like the podcast episode "Club Random With Bill Maher."

Shatner's experience spans more than six decades, during which he has also been a successful director, producer, and recording artist, contributing to projects like "How William Shatner Changed the World" on the History Channel, and the album "Has Been." He remains active in the entertainment industry, engaging in new projects and public appearances while continuing his lifelong passion for equestrian sports, evidenced by his involvement in the Hollywood Charity Horse Show.