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William Shatner reveals decades-long struggle with tinnitus

ByHearology Publishing | Date: Wed Aug 13 2025

A picture of Star Trek star William Shatner at a red carpet event wearing a blue jacket with a black top and grey hair

Star Trek actor backs new research as he calls for greater awareness of this often overlooked condition 

William Shatner has spoken publicly about his experience of chronic tinnitus, a condition he has lived with for more than 30 years. The 94-year-old actor believes his hearing damage originated while filming the Star Trek episode Arena in the 1960s, when he was standing too close to a special effects explosion.

Shatner described the moment he first noticed a persistent “ssss” sound while walking on a beach in the 1990s. When told by a doctor that his tinnitus might worsen with age, he sought treatment to help his brain adapt to the constant noise. Using habituation therapy, he has learned to cope with the condition, though he admits there are still moments when it becomes overwhelming.


Raising awareness

In a recent video for the charity Tinnitus Quest, Shatner called for greater investment in tinnitus research, describing the condition as debilitating for many people and too often ignored. 

“Tinnitus can be overwhelming, but it is not life-threatening,” he said, adding that more needs to be done to help sufferers find effective treatments.

Tinnitus affects millions worldwide, with between 1 and 2 percent of people experiencing severe symptoms that interfere with sleep, concentration and mental health. The condition – usually described as ringing, buzzing or hissing sounds heard without an external source – currently has no cure.

Shatner has previously spoken about the emotional toll of his condition, stressing the importance of professional help and public understanding. Though therapies such as habituation, sound therapy and psychological support can help manage symptoms, more research is needed to develop treatments that target the underlying causes.


Personal resilience

Despite his hearing problems, Shatner remains physically active and mentally engaged. He credits good health and curiosity for his energy at 94, telling People magazine that “your life’s energy, the soul energy of your body, is a product of health”.

“It’s very helpful to see public figures like William Shatner speaking openly about tinnitus. For many people, it’s a manageable condition, but when it begins to affect sleep, mood, or concentration, it’s absolutely worth seeking professional support,” said Micaela Stonestreet, a Clinical Audiologist with a special interest in tinnitus at Hearology®.

“Getting a hearing assessment can be a good first step, especially if the tinnitus is one-sided, has a pulsing quality, or is accompanied by sudden changes in hearing. These symptoms should be looked into as soon as possible, as they can be indicative of underlying medical concerns. Awareness and early advice can make a real difference in how people experience and manage tinnitus over time.”

Shatner’s advocacy highlights the urgent need for greater awareness of tinnitus and better funding for research into this common but under-treated condition.


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