September marks the 60th anniversary of the original “Star Trek” series, which first aired in 1966 and introduced audiences to William Shatner’s iconic portrayal of Captain James Kirk and the crew of the USS Enterprise. Since its debut, the series has grown into a significant cultural franchise, encompassing multiple television spin-offs, films, and a dedicated global fan base.

Shatner, now 95, reflected on the enduring impact of the series during a recent phone interview ahead of his appearance at Fan Expo Boston. He expressed both pride and surprise at the show’s lasting influence, describing it as “absolutely astonishing” how “Star Trek” has inspired people’s life choices and helped them overcome personal challenges. “Sixty years and still as popular as it ever was,” he said, attributing the show’s longevity to several factors.

According to Shatner, much of the franchise’s appeal lies in its optimistic philosophy and vision of goodwill among humanity. Additionally, the series’ attention to scientific exploration and technological advancement captures the imagination of viewers who see in “Star Trek” a future where humanity continues to push boundaries. He noted that many of the gadgets once imagined as sci-fi, such as handheld communicators, have parallels in today’s technology like cellphones. Moreover, he pointed out that much of the scientific groundwork inspiring the show’s creators originated from real laboratory research of the time, making some past speculative ideas obsolete as technology has advanced.

Shatner is currently preparing to release a book titled “William Shatner ... And You,” co-written with Joshua Brandon, which is scheduled for publication this September. The book explores the reasons behind “Star Trek’s” lasting resonance, drawing on interviews with celebrities and fans alike. Shatner remarked that the more he learned through this process, the more impressed he became by the series’ multi-generational impact.

The 60-year milestone underscores “Star Trek’s” unique role in shaping popular culture and inspiring scientific curiosity, themes that continue to captivate audiences decades after the original series first aired.