Star Trek's William Shatner was left with lifelong health problem after filming explosion

William Shatner, best known for his role as Captain James Kirk in the Star Trek series, has been dealing with a health issue that originated from his time on the show, despite not having worn the iconic uniform for over two decades.

The issue arose after he stood too close to a special effects explosion while filming the episode 'Arena,' which resulted in severe ear ringing and intense discomfort.

This incident led to a significant deterioration in his hearing, causing him to suffer from tinnitus for many years.

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According to Screen Rant, he has now reached a stage where the condition no longer bothers him, much like other tinnitus patients who have successfully "habituated".

Shatner has also spoken about his experience with an audiologist and the relief he received from the American Tinnitus Association.

Leonard Nimoy, another Star Trek star, also experienced tinnitus, albeit to a lesser extent, but felt its effects for several years.

The publication further reports that an explosion scene in The Apple episode left DeForest Kelley (McCoy) with ringing ears.

In related Star Trek trivia, only die-hard fans would know that Leonard Nimoy was not the initial choice for the character of Spock.

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Screenwriter Gene Roddenberry had originally cast Leonard for the role of Spock, but was later advised to allow other actors to audition.

Before Leonard Nimoy landed the iconic role, two other actors were offered the chance to play the character of Spock.

DeForest Kelley, who would later play Dr. Leonard 'Bones' McCoy, and Martin Landau were both individually approached for the part.

In an excerpt from William Shatner's book, Star Trek Memories, he recounts Gene Roddenberry's conversation with DeForest Kelley, who inadvertently revealed that he was initially offered the role of Spock. However, after working on the television pilot, DeForest expressed his reservations about playing an alien with pointy ears, ultimately declining the role with a resounding "No way! Forget it!".

The beloved TV show has left an enduring legacy among its devoted fan base, spawning 13 films after the series concluded in 1969.