William Shatner, 95, to Rock Riot Fest with Heavy Metal Debut!
William Shatner, 95, to Rock Riot Fest with Heavy Metal Debut!
Star Trek legend William Shatner, at 95, is set to unleash his heavy metal band, The *uckers, at Chicago's iconic Riot Fest. Get ready for an unforgettable performance!
Prepare for an out-of-this-world experience as legendary actor William Shatner, at the remarkable age of 95, is set to grace the stage of Chicago's renowned Riot Fest. The Star Trek icon will debut his heavy metal record alongside his newly formed band, The *uckers, in Douglass Park on September 20. This unexpected, high-energy performance is already creating a massive buzz among fans and music enthusiasts alike.
This momentous occasion comes after more than a decade of Riot Fest actively trying to bring Shatner to their stage. The festival's persistence has finally paid off, with Shatner himself confirming the news in a video posted by Riot Fest. Addressing his eager fans with his characteristic wit, the actor quipped, "I’ve been thinking about all those letters you sent me, and I decided you’re such big fans of mine that I’m going to debut my heavy metal record at Riot Fest and I hope you’ll be there, I hope I’m there." He also playfully added a special request for his rider: "I hope you have my rider and yes, don’t forget my bowl of sauerkraut, if you please.”
Riot Fest has been fanning the flames of anticipation, even suggesting that Chicago rename a boat after Shatner so he could "captain a ship again," a clear nod to his iconic role as Captain James T. Kirk. Shatner further fueled excitement by posting a photo of himself with a guitar, teasing the performance as "an event you definitely will be telling your grandchildren about!" (He playfully noted in his post, Sunday August 20, 2026, which fans are taking as a typical Shatner-ism given the festival's announced date for his performance).
Shatner joins an impressive lineup for this year's festival, which includes major acts like Twenty One Pilots, Iggy Pop, Tool, Morrissey, Alanis Morrisette, Pixies, and Rise Against. Riot Fest has a history of surprising attendees with celebrity performances, previously featuring actor John Stamos with The Beach Boys. Shatner's heavy metal debut promises to be another unforgettable chapter in the festival's eclectic history.
