Montreal Gazette, et al. - Capt. Kirk now Dr. Shatner
Iconic actor William Shatner beamed down long enough Thursday to get an honorary doctorate from his alma mater, Ï㽶ÊÓƵ - and luckily no Klingons showed up to spoil the fun.
It seemed fitting that in a convocation ceremony filled with pomp, an actor best known for being lovably pompous was honoured as about 500 faculty of arts students cheered wildly. True to form, Shatner then announced at a news conference he now wants to be addressed as "Dr. William Shatner."
He won the students over with his witty, tongue-in-cheek commencement address and charmed the Montreal media with his sharp, wise-cracking comments and warmth toward the city and university he clearly believes helped shape and build him into the success story he has become. In fact, he said he's turned down offers of other honorary degrees, but this one meant something special.
"To be lauded by my alma mater is an entirely earthly, joyous experience," said Shatner, 80.