William Shatner reflects on the profound enigma of time, bringing to mind the iconic moments aboard the Starship Enterprise, where Captain Kirk often engaged in philosophical discourse. He questions the essence of time itself, pondering the significance of 60 years, a concept he deems ultimately insignificant. The recent passing of Dolly Parton serves as a poignant reminder of time’s relentless march and its implications.
In the beloved Star Trek episode, “The City on the Edge of Forever,” Shatner’s character, Captain Kirk, finds himself journeying back in time, where he falls in love with a pacifist portrayed by Joan Collins. He soon learns that her death is crucial to thwarting a Nazi victory in World War II. Such moral dilemmas illustrate why Star Trek, which marks its 60th anniversary on September 8, remains a significant cultural phenomenon in the United States, reflecting the nation’s political landscape.
Emerging from the idealistic 1960s, Star Trek envisioned a future where humanity pursued exploration over conquest. The series championed values such as diversity, empathy, and rationality, triumphing over tribalism, superstition, and greed. It portrayed government and technology as forces that liberated society from scarcity and inequality. Notably, figures like Martin Luther King Jr. were ardent fans, with King and his wife Coretta allowing their children to stay up late to watch the show.
However, as the franchise celebrates its 60-year milestone, it faces challenges in today’s divided America, where cultural clashes and the decline of liberal democracy are prevalent. Amid these issues, Paramount, following its merger with Skydance Media for $8 billion, canceled the latest Star Trek series, citing accusations of being overly “woke.”
Some critics on the right yearn for a revival of the classic Captain Kirk image, which they associate with an all-American hero, despite Shatner being Canadian. When he was cast in 1965 after NBC dismissed Jeffrey Hunter’s performance as Captain Pike, Shatner infused the character with a vibrant, theatrical energy that enhanced the show’s intellectual narratives.
Shatner, now 95, recalls his reaction to the original pilot, describing it as intriguing yet somewhat heavy. He suggested a lighter approach, leading to the creation of a new pilot that ultimately succeeded. This shift in tone did not prevent Shatner from making a historical impact; in 1968, he and Nichelle Nichols, who portrayed Lt. Nyota Uhura, performed television’s first prominent scripted interracial kiss in the episode titled “Plato’s Stepchildren.” When asked if he recognized the significance of that moment, he admits he was made aware of it but hesitates to embrace the label of a civil rights activist.
Shatner reflects on the notion of common humanity, expressing a belief that most people simply wish to live peacefully, free to pursue their beliefs as long as they do not infringe on others. He argues that if we elevate these voices, we would find a shared desire for connection among humanity.
Star Trek continues to challenge boundaries, provoking criticism from unexpected quarters, including Stephen Miller, former deputy White House chief of staff, who has been vocal about the series’ direction. Miller recently condemned the latest series, “Starfleet Academy,” calling it “Beyond parody,” while suggesting that Paramount should grant Shatner creative control to restore the franchise.
Shatner finds the idea of political aides critiquing Star Trek amusing, expressing confusion over their preoccupation with a fictional series. He refrains from political commentary, acknowledging his Canadian background, while finding the situation captivating.
He dismisses Miller’s claims that Star Trek’s inclusivity has overstepped boundaries, questioning where the line should be drawn and pondering the meaning of the term “woke.” In Gene Roddenberry’s envisioned 23rd century, nation-states have dissolved, and planets cooperate as a unified entity, free from poverty, disease, and hunger, where currency is largely obsolete and citizens focus on self-betterment rather than material wealth.
This vision may resonate with some, while others prefer a different reality. Billionaire investor Peter Thiel has expressed a preference for “Star Wars,” labeling it a capitalist narrative in contrast to Star Trek’s perceived socialist undertones, which he argues lack monetary motivation.
Shatner, who ventured into space at the age of 90, finds humor in Thiel’s perspective. He acknowledges Thiel’s intellect and success but suggests that the essence of Star Trek encompasses values beyond mere financial concerns. He expresses a desire for a dialogue with Thiel to explore the distinctions between the two franchises.
Astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, a friend of Shatner, has noted that Star Trek tends to align more closely with scientific principles, further contributing to the ongoing discourse about the differing themes of the two iconic series.
