“Saturday Night Live” paid tribute to Patrick Stewart days after his death at the age of 86, airing a throwback video of the late “Star Trek” star hosting the show in 1994. The clip featured Stewart enthusiastically introducing musical guests Salt-N-Pepa.
Stewart died following a short battle with Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia, his representative announced. Mayo Clinic defines Lewy body dementia as the second most common type of dementia after Alzheimer's disease, causing a gradual decline in mental abilities.
The actor's representative stated that he was held in the "warm embrace of family and friends, surrounded by live music, prayer, tears, laughter, and the kind of profound emotion that only he could inspire after a lifetime of devotion to us all." The statement also noted his "peaceful ease and reflection on his face, an enduring reminder of his invincible grace."
Marvel Studios also mourned Stewart, who portrayed Professor Charles Xavier in the “X-Men” film franchise. The studio released a statement acknowledging his "gravitas and profundity to the role, earning fans across the globe and helping to transform Super Hero storytelling forever."
In a July interview with TV Insider, Stewart stated that he would "never" retire, adding that he continued to receive interesting offers and enjoyed being challenged by new work. He expressed that he could "not imagine ever officially ‘retiring.’ I’ll always and forever be an actor."