William Shatner is boldly going where he’s never been before! The Star Trek star, with a career spanning seven decades in the entertainment industry, is conquering a new uncharted territory.
At 95 years old, William is preparing to make his heavy metal debut at Chicago’s alternative music festival, Riot Fest 2026 in September.
He will front his newly assembled hard rock-metal band *The uckers and live launchpad his upcoming heavy metal covers album.
What is Riot Fest
William released a statement that read: “I’ve always believed that music, like space, is about exploration.
“Riot Fest is exactly the kind of place where anything can happen. We’re bringing volume, intensity, and a few surprises. I can’t wait to share this experience with the fans.”
William will take to the stage at Douglas Park on September 20 after the punk rock festival spent more than a decade trying to get him to perform.
He filmed a video for the festival in which he confirmed the news: “Riot Fest fans, Shatner here,” he began. “I’ve been thinking about all those letters you sent me, and I decided you’re such big fans of mine that I’m going to debut my heavy metal record at Riot Fest and I hope you’ll be there, I hope I’m there.
William’s outrageous demands
“I hope you have my rider and yes, don’t forget my bowl of sauerkraut, if you please.”
He also posted a photo of himself with a guitar to promote his performance and said: “This is an event you definitely will be telling your grandchildren about! I hope to see you there.”
© Getty ImagesThe cheeky actor also shared his outrageous rider which included a request to “rename a boat” in his honor so he “can captain a ship again,” “four feet of Polish sausage,” a single pair of white tube socks, white underwear, and he asked that his dressing room be themed “Shatner’s Shag Shack.”
Fans couldn’t wait to comment on the news with many calling him “unstoppable,” and “a king” while others posted shocked face emojis and there were a ton of love hearts too.
© Getty ImagesWhile a 95-year-old performing heavy metal sounds like the plot of a surreal sci-fi movie, anyone who has followed William’s career knows that music has always been one of his passions.
He’s spent decades pioneering a debated genre of spoken-word cover songs and loves experimenting with music.
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