Who is Elizabeth Anderson Martin?
Elizabeth Anderson Martin is a retired equestrian, horse trainer, photographer, and digital expert from the United States. She is also widely known as the fourth wife of iconic Canadian actor and former wrestler, William Shatner. Though she built a successful career on her own merits, Elizabeth stepped into the public eye following her marriage to Shatner. Despite their divorce in 2019, the couple has since reconciled and are once again together.
Let’s take a closer look at Elizabeth’s early life, professional journey, and relationship with the legendary actor.
Early Life and Background
Birth and Family
Elizabeth Joyce Anderson was born on 30 December 1958 in the United States. She grew up alongside two siblings — a sister named Gayle Anderson and an older brother, Daniel Leith Anderson, who sadly passed away from heart failure. Public details about her parents remain scarce.
Age, Ethnicity, and Faith
Elizabeth will turn 67 in 2025. She is of White ethnicity and follows the Christian faith. She holds American nationality.
Education
After completing her early education, Elizabeth went on to attend Purdue University in Indiana, where she earned a degree in Animal Science with a specialisation in Equine Studies. Her academic foundation deeply informed her future work in horse training and competition judging.
A Multifaceted Career
Horse Riding and Training
Elizabeth developed a deep passion for horses from an early age — she began riding at five and had her first horse by eight. Her dedication and expertise earned her numerous awards, including the prestigious Whinny Award. She also served as a judge in equestrian events such as those held by the Indiana Arabian Club.
Photography
Following her retirement from competitive riding, Elizabeth ventured into photography. She launched a project called Art by Nature, where she showcases stunning images capturing the beauty of the natural world.
Film and Music Collaborations
Elizabeth has also dabbled in filmography and music. She co-wrote the song Together with her husband William Shatner, which featured on his Has Been album. She appeared in several television documentaries and series, expanding her creative footprint beyond the equestrian world.
Notable Appearances:
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E! True Hollywood Story
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Gonzo Ballet
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The Shatner Project
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Life Beyond Trek: William Shatner
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American Pickers
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The Captain
Marriages and Relationships
First Marriage to Michael Glenn Martin
Elizabeth married her first husband, Michael Glenn Martin, on 19 November 1983. The couple were together for over 13 years until Michael’s death in August 1997. The cause of his death remains private, and the couple did not have any children together.
Meeting William Shatner
Elizabeth met William Shatner in 2001, shortly after both had experienced the loss of a spouse. Their shared grief and mutual love for horses created an immediate bond.
Second Marriage to William Shatner
Despite a 26-year age gap, Elizabeth and William married on 13 February 2001 in Lebanon. Though they didn’t have children together, Elizabeth became a stepmother to Shatner’s three daughters from previous relationships.
Divorce and Settlement
After 18 years of marriage, the couple legally separated in 2019, with the divorce finalised in 2020. Their prenuptial agreement meant that William retained the majority of his wealth. However, Elizabeth received a substantial settlement, including:
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A one-time payment of $2 million
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Three luxury cars
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Ownership of two horses
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Properties in Malibu and Kentucky
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A share in the family farm in Indiana
Reconciliation
In a surprising yet heart-warming turn, the couple reconciled post-divorce. William Shatner later shared in an interview with The Mirror that Elizabeth remains a key source of happiness and energy in his life.
Elizabeth Anderson Martin’s Net Worth
As of 2025, Elizabeth’s net worth is estimated at around $10 million. This wealth stems from her work in horse training, photography, film appearances, and digital projects — along with financial support from her divorce settlement. Though it is significantly less than William Shatner’s estimated $100 million, it is a testament to her hard work and versatility.
Final Thoughts
Elizabeth Anderson Martin is a woman of grace, resilience, and immense talent. From her early days as a passionate equestrian to her success in photography and entertainment, she has led a life full of reinvention. While her marriage to William Shatner brought her into the limelight, her accomplishments speak for themselves.
Today, she continues to live life on her own terms, reuniting with the man who once shared her heart, and proving that love and connection can indeed stand the test of time.
