When people hear the name Elizabeth Anderson Martin, many quickly think of William Shatner’s ex-wife. That’s true. She was married to the famous Star Trek actor for 18 years. But her life is much bigger than that one title.
Elizabeth Anderson Martin is a horse expert, a judge, a photographer, and a digital artist. She built her own career long before she married a Hollywood star. She also went through deep love, painful loss, and major life changes.
So in this article, we are going to explore her full story. We’ll talk about her early life, her love for horses, her career, her first husband, and how she met William Shatner. Let’s start from the beginning.
Elizabeth Anderson Martin Quick Bio
| Full Name | Elizabeth Joyce Anderson Martin |
| Known As | Elizabeth Anderson Martin |
| Date of Birth | December 30, 1958 |
| Age (2026) | 68 years old |
| Birthplace | United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Height | 5 ft 6 in (168 cm) |
| Weight | 57 kg (126 lbs) |
| Profession | Horse trainer, Equine judge, Photographer, Digital artist |
| Education | Purdue University (Animal Science & Equine) |
| First Husband | Michael Glenn Martin (1983–1997, died of cancer) |
| Second Husband | William Shatner (2001–2020) |
| Children | No biological children; stepmother to 3 daughters |
| Famous For | Being William Shatner’s ex-wife |
| Net Worth (2026) | Around $10 million |
Who Is Elizabeth Anderson Martin?
Elizabeth Anderson Martin was born on December 30, 1958, in the United States. As of 2026, she is 68 years old. She is American, white by ethnicity, and follows the Christian faith.
Many people know Elizabeth Anderson Martin because she was William Shatner’s fourth wife. But before that, she already had her own life and career. She worked as a professional horse trainer and equestrian judge for many years. Later, she also became a photographer and digital artist.
She is not someone who chased fame. Instead, she followed her passion. Horses were always the center of her life. And even today, she is still known in the horse world for her skills and dedication.
Elizabeth Anderson Martin’s Early Life and Family
Elizabeth Anderson Martin grew up with a deep love for animals. From the time she was a little girl, horses meant everything to her. Can you imagine falling in love with something at five years old and still caring about it 60 years later? That’s her story.
She started riding horses when she was just five years old. By the time she turned eight, she had her first pony. At only 14 years old, she was already learning how to train horses. That’s not just a hobby. That’s serious passion.
She had siblings too. She had a sister named Gayle Anderson and an older brother named Daniel Leith Anderson. Sadly, her brother passed away because of heart problems. Elizabeth has always kept details about her parents private. She prefers to live a quiet and peaceful life away from too much public attention.
Elizabeth Anderson Martin’s Education at Purdue University
When it came time to choose a college, Elizabeth Anderson Martin knew exactly what she wanted. She went to Purdue University in Indiana. There, she studied Animal Science with a focus on Equine Studies.
In simple words, she studied how to properly care for horses. She learned about their health, behavior, training, and emotional needs. It wasn’t just about riding horses. It was about understanding them completely.
This education helped her build a strong career. Instead of guessing how to train horses, she had real knowledge. That degree gave her confidence and skill. It also helped her earn respect in the equestrian community.
How Elizabeth Anderson Martin Became a Horse Expert
Elizabeth Anderson Martin didn’t just love horses. She became an expert in the field.
She worked for many years as a professional horse trainer. She trained American Saddlebreds and other show horses. She also served as an equestrian judge at competitions, including events like the Indiana Arabian Club.
Over time, people in the horse world began to notice her talent. She won the prestigious WHINNY Award. That award is given to people who make a big difference in the horse industry. Winning it shows how respected she became.
She also co-hosted the Hollywood Charity Horse Show. This event brought together riders and raised money for important causes. Horses were not just her career. They were also her way of helping others.
Awards and Success in the Horse World
Success didn’t come overnight for Elizabeth Anderson Martin. She worked for it for many years.
Winning the WHINNY Award was a big moment. It showed that her knowledge and dedication truly mattered. She became someone younger riders could look up to. Her name carried respect.
Through the Hollywood Charity Horse Show, she mixed her love for horses with charity. The event raised money for different causes. It showed that she cared about people as much as she cared about animals.
At this point in her life, Elizabeth Anderson Martin was already known in her own world. But soon, her life would change in a way she never expected.
Elizabeth Anderson Martin’s Work in Photography and Art
Did you know Elizabeth Anderson Martin is also an artist?
Her journey into photography started during a safari trip with professional photographers. Being surrounded by nature opened her eyes to a new creative side. She became interested in capturing light, color, and beauty.
She later created a project called Art by Nature. She also developed a style she calls “Flowrosophy.” It focuses on natural shapes, light, and movement. Her work mixes photography with digital design.
This shows something important about Elizabeth Anderson Martin. She is not just one thing. She is not only William Shatner’s ex-wife. She is creative, skilled, and deeply connected to nature.
Elizabeth Anderson Martin’s First Husband, Michael Glenn Martin
Before William Shatner came into her life, Elizabeth Anderson Martin was married to Michael Glenn Martin.
They got married on November 19, 1983. They shared over 13 years together. Sadly, Michael passed away on August 3, 1997, after battling cancer.
That loss deeply affected her. Losing a husband is not easy. She needed time to heal. For a few years, she stayed single and focused on her life and work.
Little did she know, another big chapter of her life was about to begin.
How Elizabeth Anderson Martin Met William Shatner
Elizabeth Anderson Martin met William Shatner in the late 1990s. Both of them were going through painful times.
William had just lost his third wife, Nerine Kidd, in 1999. Elizabeth had also lost her husband just two years before. They understood each other’s grief. That shared pain helped them connect.
According to reports, Elizabeth sent William a kind letter to comfort him after his loss. That simple letter started a conversation. Soon, they bonded over something they both loved deeply — horses.
What started as friendship slowly turned into love. And this is where the next big chapter of Elizabeth Anderson Martin’s life begins.
Elizabeth Anderson Martin and William Shatner’s Marriage
After building a strong friendship, Elizabeth Anderson Martin and William Shatner decided to take the next step. They got married on February 13, 2001. The wedding took place in Lebanon, Indiana. It was simple but beautiful, with close friends and family around them.
At the time of the wedding, Elizabeth Anderson Martin was 42 years old. William Shatner was 69. Yes, there was a 26-year age gap. Many people talked about it. But the couple seemed happy and strong. They shared love, respect, and most of all, their passion for horses.
Elizabeth became William Shatner’s fourth wife and also a stepmother to his three daughters — Leslie, Lisabeth, and Melanie. Even though they did not have children together, she became part of his family. They also worked together on projects, especially horse-related charity events.
Life in the Spotlight
Being married to a famous actor meant Elizabeth Anderson Martin stepped into the public eye. She attended red carpet events, TV appearances, and charity shows with William.
But even with fame around her, she stayed grounded. She continued her work with horses. She remained active in the Hollywood Charity Horse Show, which helped raise money for good causes. The couple also started The All Glory Project in 2010. This program supported military members, veterans, and their families through animal therapy.
Elizabeth did not try to live like a movie star. Instead, she kept focusing on the things she loved — horses, art, and helping people. She managed to balance public life and personal passion in her own quiet way.
Why Elizabeth Anderson Martin and William Shatner Divorced
After 18 years of marriage, things changed. In late 2019, Elizabeth Anderson Martin and William Shatner decided to separate. Their divorce was finalized in 2020.
Why did they divorce? The exact reasons were kept private. They did not speak badly about each other. Sometimes, people grow in different directions. Life changes. Priorities change. That happens in many long marriages.
One important thing is that they had signed a prenuptial agreement before getting married. Because of this, the divorce process was simple and peaceful. There were no long public battles.
Divorce Settlement and Assets
Since they had a prenuptial agreement, their finances were clearly planned. William Shatner kept most of his estimated $100 million fortune, including his Star Trek royalties.
Elizabeth Anderson Martin reportedly received around $2 million in support. She also kept certain assets, including homes and horses. They divided their properties and four horses between them. Reports say she kept access to the ranch with notice and received vehicles as part of the settlement.
What stands out is how calm their separation was. Even after the divorce, they were seen together at events. Many people called them “friendly exes.” That’s not something you see every day.
Elizabeth Anderson Martin’s Net Worth in 2026
As of 2026, Elizabeth Anderson Martin’s estimated net worth is around $10 million. This comes from many years of work.
She earned money from horse training and judging. She also made income from photography, digital art, and television appearances. Her divorce settlement also added to her financial security.
Even before marrying William Shatner, she had her own career. That is something important to remember. Elizabeth Anderson Martin built her success over decades through skill and hard work.
What Is Elizabeth Anderson Martin Doing Now?
So what is Elizabeth Anderson Martin doing today?
As of 2026, she lives a calm and private life. She continues her love for horses and remains involved in horse-related activities. She also works on her Art by Nature project, sharing beautiful nature-inspired digital artwork.
She still supports The All Glory Project. Helping veterans through animal programs remains close to her heart. You can see that charity is not something she did for attention. It truly matters to her.
Elizabeth chooses peace over headlines. She is not active in scandals or drama. She focuses on her passions, health, and creative life.
Elizabeth Anderson Martin’s Legacy and Influence
When people think of Elizabeth Anderson Martin, they may first remember her as William Shatner’s ex-wife. But if we look deeper, her story is about strength.
She loved horses from childhood and made that love her career. She lost her first husband and found love again. She lived through public attention and later returned to a quieter life.
She also showed that women can lead in fields that were once male-dominated. As a respected horse trainer and judge, she inspired many young riders.
Her life teaches a simple lesson. Follow what you love. Stay kind. Stay strong during hard times. And even if life changes, keep moving forward.
Final Thoughts
Elizabeth Anderson Martin’s story is not just about marriage to a famous actor. It is about passion, loss, love, work, and personal growth.
Yes, she was William Shatner’s ex-wife. But she is also a horse expert, an artist, and a woman who built her own life.
In 2026, she continues to live peacefully. She works with horses. She creates art. She supports good causes. Her journey shows that your identity is bigger than any relationship.
And maybe that is the most important part of Elizabeth Anderson Martin’s story.
(FAQs)
How tall is Elizabeth Anderson Martin?
Elizabeth Anderson Martin is about 5 feet 6 inches tall. Some websites say 5 feet 7 inches, but most reports say 5’6”. She has brown hair and brown eyes.
How old is Elizabeth Anderson Martin and when is her birthday?
Elizabeth Anderson Martin was born on December 30, 1958. As of 2026, she is 68 years old. Many people are surprised that she married William Shatner when she was 42.
Does Elizabeth Anderson Martin have children?
Elizabeth Anderson Martin does not have her own children. But when she married William Shatner, she became a stepmother to his three daughters.
What movies and TV shows has Elizabeth Anderson Martin been in?
Elizabeth Anderson Martin appeared in shows like E! True Hollywood Story, The Shatner Project, The Captain, and American Pickers. She also helped write a song called “Together” on William Shatner’s album.
Why did Elizabeth Anderson Martin divorce William Shatner?
Elizabeth Anderson Martin and William Shatner divorced in 2020 after 18 years of marriage. They had a legal agreement before marriage, so the divorce was peaceful and simple.
What is Elizabeth Anderson Martin’s net worth in 2026?
As of 2026, Elizabeth Anderson Martin’s net worth is about $10 million. She earned this money from horse training, judging, art, and her divorce settlement.
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