Not a One Trick Pony: 10 Greatest William Shatner Roles That Aren’t Star Trek, Ranked

William Shatner: Beyond Captain Kirk

William Shatner is one of the most recognizable and beloved actors in Hollywood. While he will always be remembered for his iconic role as Captain James T. Kirk in Star Trek, Shatner’s career spans far beyond this singular character. Over the years, the actor has taken on a variety of roles that showcase his versatility and talent.

Comedic Roles

The article begins by highlighting one of Shatner’s most memorable comedic performances in Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story (2004). In this film, he played the role of Dodgeball Chancellor, a position that required him to navigate the chaos and humor inherent in such an event. The movie starred alongside other notable actors like Ben Stiller, Vince Vaughn, Justin Long, Jason Bateman, Rip Torn, and Chuck Norris, forming a star-studded ensemble that made the film a box office success.

Classic Dramatic Roles

Shatner’s acting range extends to more dramatic roles as well. One such role is his portrayal of Captain Harrison Byers in “Judgment at Nuremberg” (1961). This film, directed by Stanley Kramer, was a significant part of Shatner’s career and earned him critical acclaim for his performance as the prosecutor.

Science Fiction Adventures

For those who appreciate science fiction, Tekwar (1994) offers an intriguing storyline. In this series, Shatner portrayed Walter Bascom, a character entangled in a complex narrative of crime and virtual reality. This role allowed him to explore the depths of his acting skills in a different genre from Star Trek.

Horror and Drama

In 1974, Shatner took on another challenging role as Matt Stone in “Impulse.” This film was a horror movie that required him to delve into dark territory. His portrayal of Matt Stone, a gigolo who kills his clients, showcased his ability to handle intense and disturbing roles.

Comedy-Drama Series

“The Brothers Karamazov” (1958) was another significant role in Shatner’s career. He played the character of Alyosha Karamazov, a monk who embodied subtlety and depth, providing him with an opportunity to showcase his acting skills in a different genre.

Fictional Comedy

“3rd Rock from the Sun” (1996-2001) was both a sitcom and science fiction show that required Shatner to play The Big Giant Head, the leader of an alien family living on Earth. This role offered him another chance to explore his comedic side while also delving into the complexities of human behavior.

Comedy in Airplane II

In “Airplane II: The Sequel” (1982), Shatner took on the role of Commander Buck Murdock, a character that allowed him to showcase his comedic talents once again. His performance as the commander at a lunar base was a highlight of this film.

Family-Friendly Animated Roles

“Over the Hedge” (2006) featured Shatner voicing Ozzie, a tall and beautiful opossum in an animated movie. This role demonstrated his ability to voice characters effectively, adding another layer of depth to his acting career.

Legal Drama

“Boston Legal” (2004-2008) was a significant turning point for Shatner’s career. His portrayal of Denny Crane in this legal drama series earned him critical acclaim and multiple awards, including an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series and a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor.

Conclusion

In conclusion, William Shatner’s career is marked by versatility and a wide range of roles. From comedic films to dramatic series, his performances have consistently impressed audiences and critics alike. His role as Denny Crane in “Boston Legal” solidified his status as one of the most talented actors in Hollywood.

Shatner’s career is indeed not a one-trick pony. His diverse roles and performances have made him a legend in the entertainment industry, proving his ability to adapt to various genres and challenges.