When director George Lucas received his American Film Institute Life Achievement Award in 2005, William Shatner paid tribute to the Star Wars filmmaker, one intergalactic pioneer to another. “Star Wars? I can do Star Wars,” he pledged, held at gunpoint by some of Lucas’ universally known creations. With a microphone and a convincing, Stormtrooper-studded cancan number, Shatner honored Lucas with a performance of Frank Sinatra’s “My Way.” Over the years, loyal fans have pitted the Star Trek and Star Wars franchises against one another in a battle for the ultimate space-fantasy bragging rights. Still, in his signature charming effrontery, the former Captain Kirk serenaded the father of the lightsaber in a true-to-character spoken rendition of the tune. It might not have exactly been singing, but it was undeniable Shatner. Point: Trekkies.
Top 10 Unforgettable William Shatner Moments
William Shatner — actor, comedian, pitchman, recording artist and author — turns 80 today. From Captain Kirk to an interpretive performance of "Common People," Shatner has had an accomplished and eccentric life. TIME takes a look at some of his best moments
