GEORGE TAKEI IN TORONTO FOR THE SAKURA BALL

George Takei in Toronto - April 2012

Now this is a real honour! He may be known internationally for his work on Star Trek as Hikaru Sulu, but Actor/Political Activist George Takei just now is hitting his best stride as a Star of Social Media.  Takei who celebrated his 75th Birthday in Toronto Friday night, also is in-town to receive honours at the Sakura Ball for his achievements in the Arts and also politically, for his championing of Japanese-American Relations and Gay Rights.  The Sakura Award is handed to one Individual who has had a significant impact on how Japan is viewed and accepted on a Global scale. 

The $1,000-per-head Gala held at Don Mills' Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre is now in its fourth year and past Honorees include Canadian Icon David Suzuki.

Takei this Evening was accompanied by Husband Brad Altman (above, bottom right) to accept his Award and earlier in the day he was spotted out and about on a brisk stroll in Yorkville, before returning to his Hotel to get suited-up for the Black Tie Affair.  Refined, gracious and humbled, Takei took his time greeting Fans before stepping into his black Limousine in that old school Hollywood flare he radiates.  A true Gentleman and a real inspiration to me on a personal level.

One of his Handlers who oversees Social Media affairs, reveals to me that he was responsible for posting a Photo of Takei getting ready to blow the candles on his Birthday Cake last night in the City and might have snapped a Photo of us to be posted on his Facebook Page, which currently boasts over 1.6 million Fans!  On Twitter, Takei has a devout Fanbase in-excess of 350k Followers.   

Takei has developed a reputation for sharing insightful and humorous Memes (notable images shared via Social Media), connecting with and touching the hearts of many - a unique ability making him relevant across multiple demographics and generations.

He currently can be seen in the U.S. doing a brief Arc on Steven Seagal's True Justice, which airs on the ReelzChannel.

UPDATE: I almost fainted when I saw the below:

GEORGE TAKEI TO BE HONOURED IN TORONTO AT SAKURA BALL

George Takei

Star Trek TV Legend George Takei, best known for his work as Hikaru Sulu on that Series, will be honoured in Toronto for his artistic achievements and contributions to Politics - including his championing of Japanese-American relations and also Gay Rights - at the forthcoming Sakura Ball.  The Gala will take place Saturday, April 21, 2012 at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre's Kobayashi Hall and Tickets are priced at $500.00.

For more details, click here.

Follow Takei, who is v. active on Twitter here.

WILLIAM SHATNER IN TORONTO FOR FAN EXPO CANADA 2011

William Shatner in Toronto - August 2011

The legendary William Shatner flew into Toronto last night for one-day only appearance at Fan Expo Canada 2011.  The Actor, known best for his work in Star Trek as Captain James T. Kirk and more recently the Sitcom, $#*! My Dad Says.  Shatner was charging $80 for the choice of either a Photo Op or an Autograph today at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.  The Actor made a low-key entrance into the Airport from his Town Car, going unnoticed by many.

In addition to being seen on $#*! My Dad Says, Shatner divides his time also in Kentucky where he breeds Quarterhorses and Saddlebreds.

(Photo credit: Mr. Will-W.)