William Shatner Celebrates 94th Birthday with Charity and Las Vegas Festivities
Renowned actor William Shatner, celebrated for his role in “Star Trek,” embodies the spirit of giving as he marks his 94th birthday. The celebrated nonagenarian plans to commemorate his milestone on Saturday by dedicating his time to volunteer work—a tradition he has upheld for the past 35 years through his charitable organization.
Decades of Philanthropic Dedication
“For many years, my birthday celebration has centered around my involvement with The Hollywood Charity Horse Show, a very successful charity,” Shatner, age 94, disclosed in an interview with People magazine. He emphasized the longevity and impact of his efforts, stating, “We have been committed to this endeavor for 35 years, raising millions of dollars to support children and veterans.”
Shatner’s commitment to philanthropy began in 1990, inspired by witnessing therapeutic horse riding sessions for children with disabilities.
According to the charity’s website, this experience profoundly affected Shatner, leading him to declare, “You can’t watch these kids without knowing you have to help, somehow.”
The Hollywood Charity Horse Show highlights “world-class reining horses and riders” competing each year, with proceeds benefiting the charity, as stated on their website.
Las Vegas Birthday Getaway
In addition to his ongoing charitable work, the “Boston Legal” star will also spend time in Las Vegas with his family.
“My family is whisking me away to Las Vegas for a dinner and a show, followed by a return to Los Angeles,” he shared with People. “It promises to be a memorable family experience in that wonderfully vibrant city. I am genuinely looking forward to it.”
Shatner’s Secret to Longevity: Engagement and Curiosity
Reflecting on aging gracefully on his 93rd birthday, Shatner advised maintaining an active and inquisitive approach to life. Speaking to People last year, he remarked, “Just staying engaged in life, remaining curious. However, good health also plays a significant role.”
He further elaborated on the link between health and vitality, explaining to People, “Your life’s energy, the soul energy of your body, is a direct consequence of health. Illness diminishes energy; health sustains it. I have been fortunate to enjoy good health throughout my life.”
A Life of Milestones
Born on March 22, 1931, in Montreal, Canada, Shatner has maintained an актив lifestyle.
Notably, in 2021, at the age of 90, Shatner achieved the distinction of becoming the oldest person to journey into space. This was made possible through an invitation to fly on Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin New Shepard rocket.
However, this record was surpassed just three years later by Ed Dwight, a 90-year-old former Air Force test pilot, also aboard a Blue Origin rocket.
Reflections on Spaceflight
“My spaceflight experience was defined less by the flight itself and more by my observations,” Shatner conveyed to Fox News Digital.
He articulated a profound realization about Earth’s fragility: “We inhabit a small planet, with breathable oxygen extending only a few miles above the surface. Beyond that, into space, lies a void. Witnessing Earth’s curvature from that vantage point underscored our planet’s delicate nature.”
He expanded on this perspective: “From space, the Earth appears as a small rock within an immense universe. Our significance feels diminished when viewed against the vast cosmic backdrop.”
Gratitude for Birthday Wishes
Shatner expressed his appreciation on social media for the outpouring of birthday greetings.
“As I commence my 95th year, I want to express sincere gratitude for all the birthday wishes!” he posted.
“The volume of love I’ve received is overwhelming. My best regards, Bill.”
Among the numerous well-wishers were prominent figures such as astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, who posted on X: “Happy Birthday William Shatner. Celebrating 94 orbits around the Sun today. Congratulations on completing a 55-billion mile journey.”
Actress Morgan Fairchild also sent birthday greetings, writing: “Bill! Wishing you a very Happy Birthday with much love and good wishes! Hope you have a fabulous day!”
Shatner currently hosts Fox Nation’s “Aliens Among Us.”