At 93, William Shatner continues to embody the famous “Star Trek” motto “Live long and prosper” by remaining energetically busy with various projects and appearances. Shatner’s upcoming endeavors include starring in a new documentary titled “You Can Call Me Bill,” giving a talk at Indiana University Memorial Stadium, and sailing to Antarctica on a cruise in December. Despite his age, Shatner shows no signs of slowing down, regularly attending “Star Trek” fan events across the country. When asked about his secret to longevity, Shatner humorously suggested not revealing his real age and keeping a positive attitude.
Luck is a significant factor in Shatner’s long and thriving life, as he acknowledges the role of genetics and fortunate health in his well-being. In his memoir, “Live Long and…: What I Learned Along the Way,” Shatner emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle by not smoking, staying active, eating sensibly, and getting enough sleep. He playfully recommends his ultimate secret to longevity: “Don’t die.” By staying active and enthusiastic about life, Shatner finds joy in his various interests, such as horses, dogs, family, adventure, and food. He encourages others to embrace life’s moments and cherish each day.
Shatner’s adventurous spirit is evident in his journey as the oldest person to go to space at 90, flying on board Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket and capsule. He values the importance of nurturing one’s inner child regardless of age and avoiding regrets. Shatner advises his granddaughter to view life as a movie, where she is the main character and encouraged to make the most of her experiences. Despite health challenges, including being a skin cancer survivor and living with tinnitus, Shatner has managed to find effective management tools to cope with these conditions. As he reflects on his mortality, Shatner confronts the reality that his time on Earth is limited and remains grateful for the opportunities he has had.
In 2016, Shatner faced a scare when diagnosed with prostate cancer after an unexpected rise in his PSA level, which was later determined to be a false alarm. He credits stopping testosterone supplements with helping to normalize his PSA levels. Shatner’s journey with health challenges has shaped his perspective on life and mortality, prompting him to appreciate each day and embrace joy in all aspects of his life. His infectious enthusiasm for living life to the fullest serves as a testament to the importance of maintaining a positive outlook and staying active. Shatner’s enduring legacy as an actor and cultural icon continues to inspire others to embrace each moment and appreciate the journey along the way.
