William Shatner Outlines Rider Requirements for Riot Fest Appearance

William Shatner has posted a list of rider requirements for his upcoming appearance at Riot Fest in Chicago.

The Star Trek legend is scheduled to appear at the festival on Sunday, September 20, performing songs from his upcoming metal album with his band The Uckers. Prior to the show, he posted an extensive list of rider requirements on his Instagram account.

Requirements include a boat renamed in his honor for him to captain, the chance to perform “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” at a Chicago baseball game, and a local television appearance co‑anchoring the weather.

The festival also requires an introductory video produced by GWAR featuring fire‑breathing performers, and a DeLorean to bring him to the stage rather than a gold cart. Backstage arrangements are similarly elaborate.

Shatner said in a statement (via Consequence): “I’ve always believed that music, like space, is about exploration,” he said. “Riot Fest is the kind of venue where anything can happen. We’re delivering volume, intensity, and a few surprises. I look forward to sharing this experience with the fans.”

Riot Fest co‑founder Mike “Riot Mike” Petryshyn added: “After years of repeatedly writing to William Shatner about performing at Riot Fest, he has finally agreed. I, for one, cannot wait to see Shatner take the stage. The rider requirements were unexpected.”

Despite his advanced age, the 95‑year‑old remains active, having become the oldest person to travel to space aboard a Blue Origin rocket in 2021. He also appeared at the Saturn Awards in February to receive a lifetime achievement honor, during which he discussed his passion for space exploration. In September of last year, he was hospitalized for a medical emergency.

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