William Shatner is shedding light on a medical condition he’s quietly struggled with for decades: tinnitus.
The 94-year-old Star Trek icon revealed that the persistent ringing in his ears began during his time on the show, after a special effects explosion left lasting damage to his hearing.
Tinnitus, as defined by the American Tinnitus Association, is “the perception of sound when no actual external noise is present.” People often describe it as a constant ringing, buzzing, or hissing in the ears.
In a candid new video, Shatner shares his personal journey with the condition and announces his partnership with Tinnitus Quest, a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness and funding for research.
“Over the years, I’ve had many ups and downs with my tinnitus,” he said. “I know from firsthand experience just how difficult it can get.”
He added that tinnitus affects people in varying degrees, but for about 1–2% of the population, it becomes a chronic, debilitating condition.
“There are no effective treatments—and that’s why we need more research,” Shatner emphasized.
Tinnitus Quest, the group Shatner is supporting, is “run by tinnitus patients alongside some of the top researchers in the field,” he explained. “Their goal is simple but bold: to silence tinnitus once and for all.”
“The more we can raise for Tinnitus Quest, the faster we can move toward a real solution for the millions of people who suffer from this,” he added.
He closed with a heartfelt message: “Thank you so much for watching, and I hope you’ll consider supporting this important cause.”
