"Cherish the one I had with Leonard": When Star Trek legend William Shatner opened up about his journey of friendship with co-star Leonard Nimoy

Star Trek is not just any sci-fi franchise — it is an emotion in and of itself. The legacy of Captain Kirk and Spock (William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy, respectively) evokes memories of their strong on-screen chemistry, which carried into real life.

After co-starring in The Man From U.N.C.L.E, they were reunited on the set of Star Trek: The Original Series, where their professional relationship evolved into a close friendship. They also collaborated on various other projects together.

Rewinding to 2016, William Shatner opened up about his relationship with Leonard Nimoy at a Barnes & Noble event, where he was also promoting his book titled Leonard: My Fifty-Year Friendship with a Remarkable Man. This biography of Leonard Nimoy includes an overview of the late star's legendary career and discusses their relationship on and off the set, which spanned five decades.

In an interview with BBC News, Shatner mentioned:

"And in the business we're in, where you are roaming a lot, solid connections are difficult to make. And I cherish the one I had with Leonard. "

Star Trek stars William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy's incredible journey together still resonates among millions

In 2016, during a promotional event for his biography on Leonard Nimoy, William Shatner expressed his feelings about the late star and one of his closest friends on set. He stated that he learned a great deal about his co-star and companion while writing the book.

To quote his exact words:

"In exploring this book, I learned more about Leonard and perhaps not more but a great deal about Leonard than I had known before."

Shatner mentions that the biography highlights Leonard's 'vast and historical interest in photography,' his films, written pieces, and musicals in which he starred, including singing in one. Shatner added that both faced criticism for having 'voices on some records.'

Later, they would recall those moments and laugh in friendly conversation. Their bond grew stronger over the years while working on Star Trek. As William Shatner said, the duo had their share of on-set rivalry due to conflicting roles. The 94-year-old star said:

"It was just the push and shove of actors finding their way in a new venture. Had we known each other earlier, I don't think that would have happened. But on that occasion as a young actor, everybody hungry, there was some jostling but it wasn't anymore than that."

Shortly after, William Shatner also reflected on how friendships between stars, who share a bond on and off the set, can change once their show, film, or play concludes. He said:

"When the venture is over, you say goodbye, best friends forever! And there are instances where you say, 'Man, I'll call you tomorrow. Let's have lunch.' And it never happens and it's all gone."

William Shatner emotionally expressed that he and Leonard were truly good friends and that Leonard held a special place in his heart.

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Also Read: "Brilliant performance": When OG Star Trek star William Shatner analyzed Paul Wesley's Captain Kirk role in Strange New Worlds.

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