Star Trek star William Shatner had one condition for his appearance on The Big Bang Theory

One measure of a successful sitcom is the ability to attract superstars from relevant media. You can judge the enduring popularity of “The Big Bang Theory” through the number of Star Trek films She bragged about the end of her 12-season run. The show included guest appearances from the likes of Brent Spiner, LeVar Burton, and George Takei — and of course, Will Wheaton (aka Professor Proton) had a recurring role as well.

However, one coveted performance that eluded the show for a long time was the original iconic Star Trek Captain James T. Kirk, namely William Shatner.

By the time Season 10 came out, Shatner has made it clear publicly that despite fitting the genre, he didn’t appear on the show because he wasn’t happy writing for a potential part. in 2019 interview with the New York Postexecutive producer and showrunner, Steve Holland, explained, “For one reason or another it didn’t quite work out, whether it was scheduling or something else.” Holland added that going into the show’s final season, Shatner remained at the top of his celebrity wish list. The rejection fell apart in the show’s final days, and Shatner agreed to make an extended, recurring guest appearance in Season 12, Episode 16, “The D&D Vortex.” In the episode, the “Star Trek” icon plays a parody of himself as a member of Wil Wheaton’s popular D&D group. The factor that convinced Shatner to finally come out? Acting with Kaley Cuoco again.

In an interview with the New York Post, showrunner Steve Holland explained that it was the opportunity to work with Kaley Cuoco again that brought Shatner fully into the show. As Holland put it, “I think what changed in the final season is that he knows (series co-star) Kaley (Cuoco) from doing (Priceline) commercials together and they’re friendly. When I got on the phone, one of them said, ‘One of the things he asked Kant: Will I do a scene with Callie?

in A career filled with great roles outside of science fictionOne of Shatner’s most famous roles was as a Priceline negotiator. He’s been presented for generations as the guy looking for the best deal — and in some of those commercials over the years, his character’s daughter has been involved in the process of brokering hotel deals. Cuoco played the next-generation price shopper, and Shatner clearly enjoyed acting alongside The Big Bang Theory star. When he heard that his guest appearance on her show meant he’d get another chance to star with Cuoco, the offer was too good to refuse, and, well, the rest is history.