At 94, William Shatner is taking his artistic curiosity to uncharted territory with a bold new project: a metal album featuring some of the biggest names in the genre. Known for his iconic work on Star Trek, Shatner is bringing his dramatic spoken-word style to heavy metal, creating a fusion that promises to be both theatrical and intense.
William Shatner’s metal album will feature 35 handpicked metal icons, covering bands like Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, and Iron Maiden, alongside original material from his collaborators. According to Consequence, Shatner says the project explores imagination and intensity, promising a fearless and uncompromising experience.
The Inspiration Behind William Shatner’s Metal Album
Ladies, gentlemen, SWs fans…😝⁰I have explored space.⁰I have explored time.⁰Now… I explore distortion.
Yes. You read that correctly.⁰I am releasing a HEAVY METAL album.
Thirty-five metal virtuosos. Thunderous guitars. Chaos with purpose.⁰Covers of legends like Black… pic.twitter.com/Wk9HUzbYZK— William Shatner (@WilliamShatner) February 20, 2026
Shatner drew inspiration from a spoken-word intro he made for the metal group Nuclear Messiah, led by ex-Megadeth guitarist Chris Poland. That one track motivated him to pursue a full-length project. “It wasn’t just a track—it was a doorway,” Shatner said. He wanted to bring in the best metal players and create a bold, original album that pushes creative boundaries.
His past collaborations with musicians such as Zakk Wylde, Ritchie Blackmore, Wayne Kramer, Henry Rollins, and Michael Schenker helped prepare him for this venture. The William Shatner metal album combines his theatrical storytelling with the raw energy of metal, resulting in a unique musical experience.
Anticipation Builds For William Shatner’s Metal Album
Few details are available yet about the album, including the tracklist, release date, and full list of featured artists. Fans, however, are already excited to see Shatner step into the world of metal. Each contributor brings their own style, promising an album filled with energy, precision, and controlled chaos.
Shatner explains, “Metal has always been a place where imagination gets loud.” William Shatner’s metal album reflects his lifelong curiosity and willingness to explore new forms of art. Fans can expect a fearless fusion of music and performance that is unlike anything else in his career.