William Shatner Is Releasing an All-Star Heavy Metal Album Featuring Zakk Wylde, Ritchie Blackmore and More — Try Telling Him Not To

At 94, William Shatner is preparing to release a new heavy metal album packed with well-known names from the genre. The actor, famous for playing Captain Kirk on Star Trek, is set to record songs by Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, and Iron Maiden, along with several original tracks.

The project, which does not yet have a title, was announced on Thursday, February 19. A statement from his team described it as “a heavy metal extravaganza powered by a veritable army of metal stars – each one personally selected and hand-picked by Shatner”. The album is expected to arrive later this year.

A New Chapter in Heavy Music

Shatner explained his interest in the style in a statement. “Metal has always been a place where imagination gets loud. This album is a gathering of forces – each artist bringing their fire, their precision, their chaos. I chose them because they have something to say, and because metal demands honesty…

“I’ve spent a lifetime exploring in both reality and fiction. Now I am stepping out into the unknown once again with my new project in heavy metal. I am covering Black Sabbath, Judas Priest and Iron Maiden as well as a number of new songs written by my team. The whole project is destined for this year. I hope you will join me in the exploration.”

Among the musicians taking part are Zakk Wylde, known for his long run with Ozzy Osbourne and his band Black Label Society, and Henry Rollins, formerly of Black Flag. The record will also feature Ritchie Blackmore of Rainbow and Deep Purple, as well as Edgar Froese from Tangerine Dream and Wayne Kramer of MC5.

A Long History With Music

Though this heavy metal effort may surprise some fans, Shatner has released many albums over the years. His spoken-word and music recordings have ranged across styles. His version of Rocket Man by Elton John became widely discussed after its release.

He has worked with Wylde before. In 2011, they teamed up for the album Seeking Major Tom, which also included Michael Schenker of UFO, Ian Paice of Deep Purple, and Carmine Appice. A year later, Shatner appeared at a televised roast of Wylde alongside Corey Taylor of Slipknot, Scott Ian of Anthrax, and Sharon Osbourne.

In 2013, Shatner released Ponder The Mystery, which featured Steve Vai and members of Yes, Hawkwind, and The Doors. Former Yes guitarist Billy Sherwood said in an interview, “He’s just an amazing, down-to-earth guy and an amazing artist. He’s capable of going to the Bahamas and retiring, but he wants to continue with his art, and I respect that.”

Shatner’s most recent release was 2024’s Where Will The Animals Sleep? Songs For Kids & Other Living Things. In September, he was hospitalized due to an undisclosed medical issue. By Thanksgiving, he shared a photo on Instagram and wrote that he was “especially thankful this year as we are blessed beyond measure with heath, family and a beautiful gathering”.