William Shatner, the iconic Canadian actor renowned for his role as Captain James T. Kirk in the beloved Star Trek franchise, has marked a significant personal milestone by celebrating his 95th birthday. The actor embraced the occasion with characteristic humour, sharing a light-hearted post on Instagram that declared he is “still smokin.”
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/William-Shatner-032026-e85786ff534b48e6bf6d13c49755a5ac.jpg)
On March 22, Shatner posted a collage of photographs, one featuring him grinning at the camera and another showing him indulging in a cigar. His caption read, “At 95, I’m still smokin’! 😝,” showcasing his playful spirit and zest for life. Despite his advanced age, Shatner’s energy and enthusiasm continue to shine through, much to the delight of his fans.
In addition to celebrating his birthday, Shatner shared two pieces of wisdom that he has gathered throughout his long life. His first advice was surprisingly simple yet profound: “Never waste a good cigar.” The second piece of advice was equally noteworthy, advising against heeding those who suggest one should “act your age.” This sentiment resonates with many, encouraging individuals to embrace their passions and maintain a youthful spirit regardless of their years.
Shatner first captured the public’s imagination as Captain Kirk in the original Star Trek series, which debuted in 1966. His portrayal of the fearless starship captain laid the groundwork for an enduring legacy, leading to numerous film adaptations that concluded with the 1994 release of “Star Trek Generations.” Beyond the Star Trek universe, Shatner has had a diverse career, appearing in hit television shows such as T. J. Hooker and Boston Legal. He also displayed his comedic talent in films like Miss Congeniality, further establishing his multifaceted career.
Family is of great importance to Shatner, who has three adult daughters from his first marriage to Gloria Rand. In a recent conversation in November 2025, he expressed gratitude for his life, stating he felt “blessed beyond measure” for his health, family, and supportive circle. This reflects his appreciation for the simple joys that life offers, especially as he navigates his later years.
Last year, Shatner told PEOPLE about his heartfelt birthday tradition, which involves supporting a charity close to his heart. For over three decades, he has been actively involved with The Hollywood Charity Horse Show, which has raised millions of dollars for children and veterans. As he approaches each birthday, he dedicates time to this charity that reflects his values and commitment to giving back.
Looking ahead, Shatner revealed plans for celebrating his 95th birthday with family in Las Vegas, emphasising the importance of creating enjoyable memories with loved ones. He described the forthcoming celebration as a “family experience” in the vibrant city, hinting at the joy and excitement that the gathering would bring.
As he continues to bask in the warmth of family and the buzz of life, Shatner remains a beacon of inspiration to many. His zest for life, coupled with his genuine advice, encourages fans of all ages to live fully and authentically. In reflecting on his journey, it is evident that the actor embodies the very essence of adventure and creativity, becoming not just a star, but a true legend in the entertainment world.
With such a remarkable career and approach to life, William Shatner stands as a testament to the power of persistence and a youthful heart, reminding us all that age is merely a number and that living fully is the ultimate goal.