Introduction
George Takei is a renowned actor, social media personality, and LGBTQ+ activist. Born in Los Angeles, California, in 1937, he is best known for his role as Hikaru Sulu in the original Star Trek television series and subsequent movies. However, his life and career extend far beyond his work on the USS Enterprise. In this blog post, we will explore the different facets of Takei’s life, from his personal relationships to his filmography and public feuds.
From Husband to Activist
George Takei and Brad Altman
George Takei has been married to his husband, Brad Altman, since 2008. The couple has been together for over three decades and has been vocal about their support for LGBTQ+ rights. In fact, Takei’s coming out as a gay man in 2005 was partially inspired by his opposition to the California ballot initiative that sought to ban same-sex marriage. Since then, he has become a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, using his platform to speak out against discrimination and promote equality.
The George Takei Website and Social Media Presence
Takei’s social media presence has become an integral part of his advocacy work. He has over 3 million followers on Twitter and is known for his humorous and insightful commentary on current events. In addition, he has a website dedicated to his activism, which includes resources for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies, as well as information about his work as an activist and public figure.
George Takei’s Filmography
IMDb and Film Credits
While Takei is best known for his role as Sulu, he has had a long and varied career in film and television. His IMDb page lists over 200 acting credits, including appearances on popular shows like The Twilight Zone, Hawaii Five-O, and The Simpsons. He has also lent his voice to numerous animated shows and movies, including Mulan and Kubo and the Two Strings.
George Takei’s Movies
In addition to his television work, Takei has appeared in several movies throughout his career. Some of his most notable film credits include The Green Berets, which he starred in alongside John Wayne, and the Star Trek movies, where he reprised his role as Sulu. He has also appeared in several independent films, including the award-winning drama Allegiance, which he also helped produce.
Feuds with William Shatner
The George Takei-William Shatner Feud
One of the most publicized aspects of Takei’s career has been his feud with former co-star William Shatner. The two actors have had a contentious relationship for decades, with Takei accusing Shatner of being difficult to work with and taking credit for other people’s work. Shatner, for his part, has denied these allegations and accused Takei of being bitter and seeking attention. The feud has played out in public, with both actors making jabs at each other in interviews and on social media.
George Takei on Shatner
Despite the feud, Takei has been gracious in his comments about Shatner’s work on Star Trek. He has praised Shatner’s acting and acknowledged that the show would not have been as successful without him. However, he has also been firm in his belief that Shatner has not always treated his co-stars and crew members with respect, and has called him out on several occasions for his behavior.
Conclusion
George Takei’s life and career have been multifaceted and fascinating. From his work as an actor to his advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, he has made a significant impact on both the entertainment industry and society as a whole. While his feud with William Shatner has garnered a lot of attention, it is just one small part of his story. Ultimately, Takei’s legacy will be defined by his talent, his activism, and his commitment to creating a more just and equitable world.