William Shatner is celebrating a remarkable milestone with the same spirit that has defined his life and career for decades. The television icon turned 95 on March 22, 2026, marking a journey spanning generations in film, television, and storytelling.
GettyBest known as Captain James T. Kirk on “Star Trek,” Shatner’s legacy stretches far beyond the screen, with work in music, writing, and even space travel in his later years.
William Shatner Shares Playful ‘I’m Still Smokin’ Message as He Celebrates 95th Birthday
To mark the occasion, he shared a lighthearted message with fans that reflected his enduring outlook.
“At 95, I’m still smokin’! 😝 I’ve learned two things: Never waste a good cigar.
Never trust anyone who says you should ‘act your age.’ 😉👍🏻”
Fans quickly filled the comments with messages of admiration and warmth, celebrating both the milestone and the spirit Shatner continues to bring to his work.
On fan shared a long birthday message and wrote: “Have a very happy & blessed birthday william – we, your fans, love you so much! ♥️🥹🫶🏼 also on the behalf of my dad @nutella.16 whose hero you are too – he grew up watching you in TOS of star trek when it first aired back then, full of admiration & fascination for your brilliant acting & charisma as captain james t. Kirk – & then fortunately passed this love on to me by introducing me to Star Trek and your phenomenal career – now you’re my hero & inspiration too, just like you’re my dad’s & of countless fans out there. 🥹♥️🖖🏼🚀”
Others praised his energy and outlook, with one commenting, “I hope I have half your vitality if I reach 95! Happy birthday!!” while another joked, “Happy Birthday Bill. You are 95 and I’m 50. Why do you have more energy than me? Lol”
“95 is the new 21 they say! 👏 Happy birthday!!! 🎂🎁,” another fan added.
“Keep beaming your light 🕯👑 King Shatner 🤴, full of Gold, one of my favs, have a blessed 🙌 day 💛 🎩,” one more wrote.
From Captain Kirk to a Beloved Cultural Icon
GettyOver more than seven decades in the industry, Shatner has built a career that spans television, film, music and writing.
He rose to global fame as Captain James T. Kirk in “Star Trek,” a role that first appeared on television in 1966 and went on to shape one of the most iconic sci-fi franchises in history.
GettyThe original series ran until 1969 but quickly grew into a cultural phenomenon, with a devoted fan base that continues to celebrate its legacy.
Shatner later reprised the role in “Star Trek: The Animated Series” and multiple feature films, including “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan” and “Star Trek III: The Search for Spock.”
A Career That Expanded Beyond the Screen
While Kirk made him a household name, Shatner’s work extended far beyond the “Star Trek” universe.
He appeared in early television hits including “Alfred Hitchcock Presents,” “The Twilight Zone” and “For the People,” building a foundation long before his breakout role.
Outside acting, he explored music and writing. His 2021 album “Bill” featured collaborations with artists including Joe Jonas, Brad Paisley, and Joe Walsh.
GettyHe has also authored several books, including his memoir “William Shatner: Live Long and … What I Learned Along the Way,” the “TekWar” series, and a book reflecting on his friendship with Leonard Nimoy.
Making History in Space at 90
GettyEven in his later years, Shatner has continued to embrace new experiences with the same curiosity that defined his early career.
In October 2021, he made history by traveling to space at age 90, becoming the oldest person to do so aboard a Blue Origin flight on the New Shepard rocket.
The moment carried a quiet sense of symmetry, echoing the role that first made him a household name.
“It’s life-changing in its way, not because of the aerial adventure, but because of the people I’m meeting,” he said, as reported by People.
Born on March 22, 1931, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, Shatner has remained active well into his 90s. He is also a father to three daughters from his first marriage.
As he marks his 95th birthday, his message reflects a life guided by curiosity, humor and a clear refusal to slow down.
