Congratulations to William Shatner on his upcoming induction into the celebrity wing of the WWE Hall of Fame. Believe it or not, “The Shat” made several appearances in the WWF and the WWE including two appearances on RAW in 1995, an appearance inducting Jerry “The King” Lawler at the 2007 Hall of Fame ceremony, and an appearance guest hosting RAW in 2010.
USA Today broke the pulse-pounding earth shattering news today (a story which should win the Pulitizer):
World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) has a new hall of famer: William Shatner, who took part in WWE events when he wasn’t patrolling the universe as Captain James T. Kirk of “Star Trek.”
Shatner will be inducted into the celebrity wing in an April 6 WWE Hall of Fame ceremony that will stream on Peacock and held remotely due to COVID-19 restrictions.
The Shat needs no introduction but just in case you’ve emerged from a 60-year coma, an excerpt from the WWE’s announcement of Mr. Shatner’s induction should bring you up to speed:
Shatner is beloved by millions around the world for his iconic portrayal of James T. Kirk, captain of the USS Enterprise in the original “Star Trek” television series, as well as the motion picture series. He’s also starred in “T.J. Hooker,” was the host of “Rescue 911,” won Emmys and Golden Globe Awards for his portrayal of Denny Crane on “Boston Legal,” and has released numerous spoken-word albums and best-selling books.
He made his first trek into the WWE Universe in early 1995, when he appeared as the special guest on Jerry “The King” Lawler’s “King’s Court.” Shatner didn’t take too kindly to Lawler’s badgering and sent “The King” flying with a monkey flip. Shatner returned to Raw one week later to be in Bret “Hit Man” Hart’s corner for a showdown with Jeff Jarrett. When Road Dogg got a little too close to the action, Shatner decked him with a big right hand and rammed him into the turnbuckle.
Mr. Shatner has had some fun moments in the WWF and WWE, lending his charisma and sense of humor to the shows. My brother and I had the privilege of watching him induct Jerry “The King” Lawler into the 2007 Hall of Fame when we attended WrestleMania XXIII and it’s unfortunate we can’t see this momentous occasion.
Mr. Shatner recently celebrated his 90th birthday and this is a fun way to continue celebrating 90 years of excellence. in the entertainment world. Mr. Shatner’s induction into the celebrity wing is well-deserved and a long time coming. Now if the WWE can only induct Cyndi Lauper, things will be perfect.
