Legendary actor, author, director, and musician William Shatner is set to bring his rock and metal project to the live stage for the first time at Riot Fest 2026.
The 95-year-old Star Trek icon will perform at the annual Chicago festival, taking place at Douglass Park from September 18-20, 2026, backed by members of Nuclear Messiah. The appearance comes as Shatner continues work on a forthcoming rock and metal album that features an extensive lineup of guest musicians from across the hard rock and heavy metal worlds.
The album is expected to be released through Cleopatra Records and will include a collaboration with Judas Priest vocalist Rob Halford on a cover of the band’s 1982 classic “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin’.” Members of Nuclear Messiah also contribute to the project, alongside notable guests including Zakk Wylde, Ritchie Blackmore, and Henry Rollins.
Among the latest musicians confirmed for the record is Mikkey Dee (Scorpions, Motörhead), who recently recorded drums for a cover of another Judas Priest staple, “Living After Midnight.”
Speaking about the project and its upcoming live debut at Riot Fest, Shatner said:
“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. I can’t wait to share this experience with the fans.”
In addition to its high-profile guest performers, the album will feature an impressive roster of drummers, including:
- Dave Lombardo (ex-Slayer, Mr. Bungle, etc.)
- Chris Adler (ex-Lamb Of God, Megadeth)
- Vinny Appice (ex-Black Sabbath, Dio, etc.)
- Carmine Appice (Vanilla Fudge, Cactus)
- Kenny Aronoff (Steve Vai)
- Simon Wright (ex-AC/DC, UFO)
- Bobby Rondinelli (Blue Öyster Cult, Quiet Riot)
- Matt Starr (Ace Frehley, Joe Lynn Turner)
- Steve Zing (Danzig, Samhain, Mourning Noise)
- Fred Aching (Kings Of Thrash, Nuclear Messiah, Fraxures)
The record is also expected to feature covers of songs by Black Sabbath, Iron Maiden, and other influential rock and metal acts. Those tracks could potentially make their way into Shatner’s Riot Fest setlist when he makes his live debut with the project later this year.
Riot Fest 2026 will feature headlining performances from Tool, Twenty One Pilots, and Pierce The Veil, alongside appearances from GWAR, Angine de Poitrine, Fleshwater, and numerous other artists.
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