William Shatner, the 95-year-old Star Trek legend, has issued a series of extravagant demands ahead of his debut festival performance with his new heavy metal band, The ****ers, at Chicago's Riot Fest in September. The band features members of Ozzy Osbourne's band, Vixen, and others.
Shatner's Demands Include a Boat and Weather Gig
Shatner stated, "I want to start acting like the Heavy Metal God that I am," and has requested that the city of Chicago provide a boat renamed after him, an appearance co-anchoring local TV weather, and the chance to sing "Take Me Out To The Ball Game" at a Chicago baseball game.
Additional Extravagant Requests
On his Instagram account, Shatner listed more demands: a DeLorean car for transport to the stage, an intro video created by GWAR, and "fire breathers. Many of them." Backstage, he wants a dressing room themed as "Shatner's Shag Shack" containing four feet of Polish sausage and sauerkraut ready to eat. He also requested eight pallets of Faygo drink, an assortment of adoptable puppies, and a bouquet of flowers described as "something dainty."
Further demands include a Montreal Canadiens hockey sweater signed by actor John Stamos, plus a tube of socks and pants. Shatner signed off: "You have a couple of months here to get this together. I know Chicagoans can make me happy. Live Long and Rock On."
Shatner's New Musical Direction
Shatner, who has recorded an LP of metal tunes, said of his new direction: "I've always believed that music, like space, is about exploration. Riot Fest is exactly the kind of place where anything can happen. We're bringing volume, intensity, and a few surprises. With this incredible band behind me, I expect nothing less than lift-off."
Also on the Riot Fest bill are Iggy Pop, Public Image Ltd., and Sex Pistols featuring Frank Carter.
