“Live long and prosper.” Fun fact—did you know that this phrase and the iconic gesture were both Leonard Nimoy’s idea, which he based on the Jewish blessing of the Cohanim? William Shatner knew this, and had many talks about spirituality and Judaism with his longtime friend Leonard. Many of these conversations with Nimoy are disclosed in his new book, Leonard: My Fifty-Year Friendship with a Remarkable Man, which is already getting rave reviews. Over the course of half a century, Shatner and Nimoy saw each other through personal and professional highs and lows. In this powerfully emotional book, Shatner tells the story of a man who was his friend for five decades, recounting anecdotes and untold stories of their lives on and off set and gathering stories from others who knew Nimoy well, presenting a full picture of a rich life. As much a biography of Nimoy as a story of their friendship, “Leonard” is a uniquely heartfelt book written by one legendary actor in celebration of another.
Temple Bat Yahm has the distinct pleasure of hosting an evening with Mr. Shatner on Sunday, March 6th, where he will share some of these unforgettable stories about his life and his friend. Scott Seigel, President of Temple Bat Yahm, said he had been calling and calling trying to get Mr. Shatner to speak at an event, and one Friday evening before Shabbat services, Scott was walking his dog and got the call. “I have been an admirer of his career since the early days of Star Trek and followed his career path into movies, books, directing, TV and music. He is quite a talented, energetic and creative individual who simply keeps at it 100%.” Scott couldn’t be more elated to run down to services and gleefully tell Rabbi Zylberman that William Shatner will be coming down to Orange County to speak at Temple Bat Yahm. Even now, when he talks about it, he turns into a young fan and delights in the story! “All of our ticket revenue can go directly to our much needed endeavors such as our burgeoning youth program, membership activities, and as you can well imagine, our much needed security enhancements,” says Seigel.
William Shatner has built a career spanning over 50 years as an award-winning actor, director, producer, writer, recording artist and horseman. He is one of Hollywood’s most recognizable figures and a major philanthropist. His accomplishments in television, film and stage are expansive. In 1966, Shatner originated the role of “Captain James T. Kirk” in the television series Star Trek. The series spawned a feature film franchise where Shatner returned as Captain Kirk in seven of the Star Trek movies, one of which he directed. As the director, Star Trek V: The Final Frontier meant quite a lot to Shatner. He will share with Temple Bat Yahm how the creation and meaning behind the film was quite a spiritual experience, considering the plot: Captain Kirk and his crew must deal with Mr. Spock’s long-lost half-brother who hijacks the Enterprise for an obsessive search for G-d at the center of the galaxy.
In addition to his iconic role as “Captain Kirk,” Shatner played the title role in the hit television series T.J. Hooker before hosting television’s first reality-based series, Rescue 911. He won Emmys and his first Golden Globe for his portrayal of eccentric lawyer “Denny Crane” on both The Practice and Boston Legal. He has received four more Emmy nominations as well as other Golden Globe and SAG Award nods.
Scott Seigel and Temple Bat Yahm could not be more thrilled to host Mr. Shatner for this incredible event on Sunday, March 6th, at 4:00 p.m. VIP Reception includes: Scotch and Wine Tasting, Food Stations, a photo with Mr. Shatner, and a signed copy of his latest book. At 6:00 p.m., William Shatner will recount highlights from his friendship with Leonard Nimoy. Remarks followed by Q & A will be moderated by Fox News lead anchor Christine Devine. For additional information regarding sponsorship opportunities, please contact Scott Seigel at (949) 795-5264 or SSeigel@calclosets.com.
Tanya Schwied graduated from New York University, studied abroad in Israel, and currently works for the CEO and President of Jewish Federation & Family Services.