Olivia Asher is a reporter at the New Herald Tribune covering breaking news for the Digital Trends Desk. Before joining the newsroom in 2022, she covered criminal justice issues at the Orlando Plain Dealer.
March 22 , 2024
Los Angeles, CA — In a surprising turn of events, a recent nationwide poll has revealed that an overwhelming majority of Americans believe that iconic actor William Shatner is not too old to embark on another five-year voyage. The poll, conducted by the Galactic Opinion Research Institute, surveyed thousands of respondents across all 50 states, and the results have sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry.
At 93 years young, Shatner has defied conventional expectations by maintaining a level of energy and charisma that rivals starship captains half his age. Known for his legendary portrayal of Captain James T. Kirk in the original Star Trek series, Shatner has become a cultural icon, and fans continue to marvel at his boundless enthusiasm.
The poll asked participants whether they believed Shatner could handle another interstellar adventure akin to the USS Enterprise’s legendary five-year mission. The response was resounding: 78% of respondents expressed unwavering confidence in Shatner’s ability to boldly go where no octogenarian has gone before.
Speculation about Shatner’s potential return to space exploration has been rampant since his historic trip aboard Blue Origin’s New Shepard in 2021. During that suborbital flight, Shatner became the oldest person to reach the edge of space, and his emotional reaction captured the hearts of viewers worldwide.
Notable celebrities have weighed in on the debate. George Takei, who played Mr. Sulu alongside Shatner, tweeted, “Bill’s got more warp speed left in him than most starships. Live long and prosper, my friend!”
However, not everyone is convinced. Dr. Beverly Crusher (yes, the fictional doctor from Star Trek: The Next Generation) expressed concerns about the toll such a journey might take on Shatner’s health. “Space travel is no holodeck simulation,” she cautioned. “We must consider the risks.”
As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: William Shatner’s indomitable spirit continues to inspire generations. Whether he embarks on another five years at the held remains uncertain, but the poll results suggest that millions of Americans are ready to shout, “Engage!”
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