Following media reports about his hospital visit, the 94-year-old made light of the headlines in a reassuring message on Instagram on Thursday.

“I thank you all for caring, but I’m perfectly fine. I keep telling you all: don’t trust tabloids or AI!” the Captain Kirk portrayer posted.

On Wednesday, entertainment news portal TMZ reported that Shatner was “rushed” to the hospital due to a “medical emergency”.

The Canadian actor has now shared that he “overindulged” – apparently while eating.

He posted a picture of himself in the role of writer Mark Twain in the TV series “Murdoch Mysteries”, along with a quote often attributed to Twain: “Rumours of my demise have been greatly exaggerated!”

Fans flooded the comments section with relief and affection. “I’m glad you’re okay, I almost started crying,” one wrote.