How two “titans of the American theatre” almost ruined William Shatner’s career
William Shatner said his role in the Broadway production of *The World of Suzie Wong* was cut so heavily that it left him feeling he had lost two years of his career. The experience disappointed him at a crucial point, when he hoped theatre would provide a major breakthrough.
The production was led by producer David Merrick and director Josh Logan, whom Shatner called “titans of the American theatre”. He later found success in *A Shot in the Dark* alongside Walter Matthau, then landed a leading film role and television work, including two celebrated *Twilight Zone* episodes. The play and its source novel also drew criticism for their portrayal of Hong Kong and Asian women involved in prostitution; a 1960 film adaptation starring William Holden was a flop.
In short
- Shatner said cuts left his role in *The World of Suzie Wong* almost negligible.
- He felt the production cost him two years of his career.
- Later stage and television roles helped him regain momentum.
Explained simply
William Shatner is an actor who later became widely known for film and television roles, but early in his career he hoped Broadway theatre would bring a major breakthrough. The World of Suzie Wong was a stage play adapted from a novel set in Hong Kong.
The production was led by David Merrick, a prominent Broadway producer, and Josh Logan, a well-known director. Shatner’s role was greatly reduced, leaving him disappointed at a point when he had hoped theatre would help advance his career.
The story also drew criticism for its portrayal of Hong Kong and Asian women involved in prostitution. Its 1960 film adaptation, starring William Holden, was unsuccessful, while Shatner later found work in theatre, film and television.