Shatner, 95, & Daughter Beat Stage 4 Cancer! New Podcast & Metal Album Next
Shatner, 95, & Daughter Beat Stage 4 Cancer! New Podcast & Metal Album Next
William Shatner, 95, and daughter Melanie reveal their harrowing, simultaneous Stage 4 cancer battles and miraculous recovery. Now cancer-free, they're launching an inspiring podcast and Shatner's even releasing a heavy
In a remarkable testament to resilience, screen legend William Shatner, 95, has revealed his battle with Stage 4 malignant melanoma that had spread to his lungs and brain. What makes this story even more extraordinary is that at the very same time, his daughter Melanie was fighting her own Stage 4 breast cancer diagnosis. Fortunately, both father and daughter were declared cancer-free by late 2024, defying immense odds.
Their shared ordeal has inspired them to launch a new podcast series titled “No Time but Now.” Through this platform, they plan to interview health experts and fellow cancer survivors, offering hope and insights to others facing similar challenges. Shatner shared with People magazine that his diagnosis came after he noticed a lump on the back of his neck. A plastic surgeon friend urged him to get it checked, a decision that likely saved his life.
Following the diagnosis in June 2023, Shatner underwent surgery to remove the tumor. This was followed by a rigorous two-year course of immunotherapy, specifically targeting the cancer that had spread to his lungs and brain. Melanie candidly expressed the immense emotional toll of that period, telling People, “I remember vividly thinking, ‘I don’t have the strength to take care of myself and lose my father at the same time.’” Despite the gravity of his own condition, Shatner maintained a remarkably positive outlook. He recounted the moment of his diagnosis, saying, “They said, ‘You’ve got cancer. If you came in later, you would have been dead.’ See? That’s my life. I think the universe is taking care of me.”
With cancer now behind him, Shatner isn't slowing down. The nonagenarian is also forging ahead with plans for his first-ever heavy metal album. This ambitious project will feature the iconic actor covering tracks by legendary bands such as Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, and Iron Maiden. He'll be backed by a supergroup led by former Megadeth guitarist Chris Poland. Fans can anticipate the album's live debut this fall at Riot Fest in Chicago.
Speaking about his venture into the world of metal, Shatner remarked, “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.” His journey, from battling a life-threatening illness alongside his daughter to embracing new creative frontiers, truly exemplifies a spirit of relentless exploration and triumph.
