At 95 years old, pop culture icon William Shatner is boldly going where he has never gone before: heavy metal. As the legendary actor continues production on his highly anticipated, star-studded metal debut, he has just announced a massive collaboration with Judas Priest vocalist Rob Halford.
The duo has teamed up for a dramatic, reimagined rendition of the classic metal anthem “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin’“. The new cover will contrast William Shatner‘s intense, signature spoken-word delivery with the soaring, powerhouse vocals of the “Metal God” himself.
“I’ve always been drawn to the energy and storytelling of heavy metal,” William Shatner stated regarding the collaboration. “Working with Rob on this track brings that intensity to life in a way that feels both timeless and entirely new.”
Rob Halford expressed equal enthusiasm for the unexpected pairing, adding: “One life I’m gonna live it up!’ William Shatner is boldly doing that more than ever, and I am honored to reinforce this message with him — ‘taking flight I said I’ll never get enough!'”
The upcoming, currently untitled record will be released via Cleopatra Records. According to label founder Brian Perera, it is an honor to help celebrate the beloved entertainer’s musical journey “as he goes louder, harder and heavier than ever.” In addition to original compositions penned by his creative team, the album promises ambitious covers of legendary tracks from Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden, and Judas Priest.
While the veteran entertainer has a long history of musical experimentation—having previously collaborated with rock and punk luminaries like Ritchie Blackmore, Wayne Kramer of MC5, Edgar Froese of Tangerine Dream, and Henry Rollins of Black Flag—this project marks his first dedicated foray into heavy metal.
The spark for a full-length metal album was originally ignited during his recent guest appearance on “Prophet Of Fall-Out“, a track from the upcoming Black Flame album by the all-star project Nuclear Messiah, which features former Megadeth guitarist Chris Poland. Receiving a gifted guitar from Zakk Wylde also helped push the actor fully into the genre.
“When Nuclear Messiah came to life, something clicked. It wasn’t just a track — it was a doorway,” he previously explained regarding his new creative direction. “Metal has always been a place where imagination gets loud. Each artist brings their fire, their precision, their chaos. I chose them because they have something to say, and because metal demands honesty.”
Further details regarding the album’s official title, final release date, and full tracklist are expected to be announced soon.
