While plenty of actors may try to spend their career fleeing from the role that made them famous, William Shatner welcomed James T. Kirk into his life like an old friend. Shatner starred in Star Trek: The Original Series, along with various films that followed the television show. The series amassed an entire franchise, containing films, television spinoffs, and much more.

Shatner frequently spoke fondly of the series, expressing gratitude that he was given what many considered to be his "big break" in television. "Let's face it. That TV series is part and parcel of me, and it's the major reason for my popularity." Shatner said during an interview with the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.

Not only did the series offer Shatner fame and fortune, but it also taught him more than a few powerful life lessons. "The television series made me internationally known," said Shatner during another interview with The Gazette. "My lowest ebbs as an actor were before Star Trek became a series and after it was over."

Watch Star Trek on MeTV!

Saturdays at 9 PM

*available in most MeTV markets

But even after Shatner was done with Star Trek, the series was still teaching him some powerful lessons. "I have always propelled along paths unknown to me, and as I grow older, I realize the harder it is," said the actor. "More and more, one needs to apply determination and not wish fulfilment. I drain my energies less, but my expectations of what I can do...and I have to be more focused."